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Treating Acne with ALA and Light Therapy


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Acne is among the most common skin diseases in the United States. While it is commonly associated with the teenage years, acne does affect adults, especially women who are experiencing significant hormonal shifts.  According to Acne-Resource.org, 20% of all adults have active acne, and about 20 million Americans have acne badly enough to cause scars.
 
Fortunately, there are several acne treatments available that can keep acne under control, and help to reduce scars. Administering a solution of 5-aminolevluinic acid (ALA) and combining it with light therapy  is a proven and effective method for treating acne. This treatment option is also known as photodynamic therapy (PDT), and offers a number of benefits for those who are suffering from moderate to severe acne.
 
Here’s a close look at how ALA and light therapy treatments work, and how they may benefit you:

How ALA and Light Therapy Treatment Works

The ALA and light therapy treatment for acne is a two-step process. First, the solution of 5-aminolevulinic acid is applied to the skin and left to sink into the tissues. This medication increases skin’s sensitivity to light, making it easier for the skin to absorb the blue light treatment. The skin is then exposed to the gentle blue light for 15 to 60 minutes per session, depending on the severity of the acne. This process helps to reduce sebaceous gland activity, which in turn reduces inflammatory acne lesions.
 
Patients that undergo this type of treatment are encouraged to use sun protection for at least 48 hours after their treatment, and also to stay out of direct sunlight for as long as possible.

Key Benefits of ALA and Light Therapy

Some of the key benefits of ALA and light therapy include:
  • Can be performed on mild to moderate to severe inflammatory and cystic acne
  • Significant improvement in acne breakouts
  • Reduces the risk of acne scars
  • Shrink’s the skin’s oil glands
  • Kills bacteria that may be causing frequent acne breakouts
  • Can be combined with microdermabrasion to remove dead skin cells and enhance ALA penetration
  • Can be performed as a series for noticeable results
  • Studies show that some patients reported a 50% to 75% improvement in acne
  • May deliver results similar to those achieved with Accutane
ALA and light therapy treatments for acne, or photodynamic therapy treatments, may cause some redness and slight irritation of the skin in the treated area. However, these side effects typically subside within 24 to 48 hours. While this treatment option is more expensive than alternative acne treatments, most people can achieve results within
 
You don’t have to suffer from the discomfort and irritation associated with frequent acne breakouts. ALA and light therapy treatments may help to clear up your skin and reduce the risk of acne scars. Learn more about acne treatments in our information guide, or consult with a dermatologist in your area to find out if you may be a good candidate for this innovative treatment.

 

 

Published: 10/30/2009, Last Updated: 10/30/2009

By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers

Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.





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Related Subjects and Keywords: ala treatment  acne treatments  acne therapy  ALA acne  acne light therapy  photofacials for acne  photodynamic therapy for acne  best acne treatment  best acne treatments 


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