Acne affects millions of teenagers and adults every year, and its side effects can cause feelings of low self-esteem, social anxiety, and a poor self-image. Hormonal acne typically occurs during the teen years, but it can crop up again anytime between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Fortunately, there are several treatments available that can keep acne under control, and help to minimize the side effects of the skin disorder. These treatments do not involve any surgery, and most are beneficial for all skin types. Here’s a close look at some of the top noninvasive
acne treatments on the market:
Photodynamic Therapy for Acne
Photodynamic therapy, also konwon as Photofacial treatments, use blue light technology to kill acne-causing bacteria that is embedded under the skin, and reduce oil gland activity. This treatment has been approved the by FDA to treat mild to moderate acne, and does not involve the use of UV light or laser energy. Popular blue light treatments for acne include the Lumenis ClearLight Phototherapy, BLU-U System by DUSA Pharmaceuticals, and the Omnilux blue system.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Acne Treatments
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is used to treat a number of skin conditions such as rosacea and pigmented skin, but can also be an effective treatment for acne. This system emits blue light onto skin that has been treated with Amino Levulenic Acid (ALA). The combination of blue light and AlA helps to slow down hyperactive sebaceous glands and reduces the formation of acne pustules and breakouts. A series of treatments is usually necessary to get the skin back under control. Most people see results after just a few treatments, and studies show much better results than most medication such as Accutane.
eLight by Elos Acne Treatments
eLight is a facial treatment developed by Syneron, the same company that makes VelaSmooth and the ReFirme skin tightening system. The eLight system uses the patented elos™ Technology to deliver a powerful beam of Bi-Polar Radio Frequency (RF) and Broad Spectrum Light deep into the skin. This process effectively slows down sebaceous gland activity, and tightens the skin. The result is fewer breakouts, and the production of collagen which helps create a more youthful, healthier appearance. A series of eLight treatments is typically necessary for moderate to severe cases of acne. In some cases, the acne sufferer can see results after just a single treatment.
Aramis Laser Acne Treatment
The Aramis laser uses infrared technology to shrink the sebaceous glands and decrease bacterial growth. This procedure causes mild discomfort, and is typically recommended for patients who have bnot been successful with other types of treatments. The laser helps to reduce overproduction of oil, shrinks the pores, and reduces activity of the sebaceous glands overall.
Chemical Peels
One of the mildest types of noninvasive acne treatments, chemical peels are designed to trigger the shedding process of the skin so that healthier skin cells can grow and replace damaged cells. This can be an effective for people with acne or acne scars, but the type of peel used will need to be customized based on skin type.
There are several different types of noninvasive
acne treatments available for mild to severe cases of acne. If you’re suffering from continuous breakouts, acne lesions or other problems associated with acne, set up a consultation with your
cosmetic dermatologist. They will be able to offer advice and recommendations for noninvasive acne treatments, so you can find out if you are a good candidate for any of these treatments.