While over the counter acne treatments and cosmetic procedures such as photofacials are designed to clear up acne, many people still suffer from acne breakouts and skin problems – even after the most extensive treatment.

Dermatologists now offer several acne treatment solutions and skincare programs for acne sufferers, but some skin types do not respond well to treatment. In some cases, the skin can become even more inflamed and damaged.

Photopneumatic Therapy is one of the latest acne treatments available, a specialized laser treatment that uses a combination of vacuum suctioning and intense pulsed light to treat persistent acne. Photopneumatic Therapy received clearance from the FDA in 2005, and the treatment is now showing up at several cosmetic surgery and aesthetic centers across the country. This light therapy treatment not only helps treat acne, but can also help repair sun-damaged skin, reduce red patches on the skin, and remove unwanted hair.   

How Photopneumatic Therapy Works  

Photopneumatic therapy is a light-based treatment that delivers energy waves deep into the skin’s surface. The treatment is customized for each patient, and begins with a light suctioning of the skin to remove dead skin cells and bring the problem skin layers to the surface.  

After the blood vessels and skin cells are brought to the surface, a photon-enabled device is administered over the treatment area. The handpiece emits energy waves into the skin at a steady pace, effectively killing underlying bacteria and reducing the size of capilleries and blood vessels. After just a few seconds of treatment, any damaged cells and tissues are destroyed completely so that they can be removed from the body naturally.  

Most people experience slight redness and tingling immediately after the treatment, but Dr. Vic Narurkar, the Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of California who conducted several of the clinical trials of Photopneumatic Therapy, explains that “One hundred percent of patients in the study reported no pain or burning sensation when treated with PPx therapy.” (Source: Business Wire)   

Are You a Good Candidate for Photopneumatic Therapy?  

If you’ve been struggling with persistent acne breakouts or are not getting results with conventional acne treatments, you may be a good candidate for photopneumatic therapy. Other strong candidates for this treatment may include people with:  

• Sun damaged skin
• Scars or damaged skin tissues after injury
• Broken capillaries in sensitive areas of the face
• Excess hair around the mouth and jaw line
• Sensitive skin that is not responding well to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid treatments
• Skin that is too weak or fine for deep chemical peels  

Photopneumatic therapy offers several benefits for people who have tired – and failed – with many of today’s leading acne treatments, and may be a valuable solution for getting rid of acne and acne scars for good.  

Learn more about acne treatments and acne scar removal options in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon in your area to find out if photopneumatic therapy is a good choice for treating your case of acne and skin problems.