Acne is a common skin condition caused by a combination of factors, including overactive sebaceous oil glands, irregular sloughing of dead skin cells, and a buildup of bacteria. Excess sebum (the oil that lubricates skin and hair), bacteria, and dead skin cells can become trapped in the skin pores, causing inflammation and the formation of acne lesions. While acne can often be treated successfully with a combination of topical and oral medications, for people with chronic or resistant acne, lasers may be used to improve both acne inflammation, as well as acne scarring.

In many cases, acne is treated with an ongoing regimen of topical and oral medications. Laser acne treatment is an excellent option for patients with acne that is resistant to these traditional measures, as well as for patients who want to minimize the amount of oral antibiotics needed. In addition to treating active inflammatory acne and preventing further breakouts, lasers may also be used to improve the appearance of acne scarring.

A combination of different lasers and light-based systems can be used to target acne inflammation on several fronts. Certain types of lasers can help shrink overactive sebaceous oil glands that cause pore blockages. Other modalities can help inhibit the growth of bacteria that contributes to the formation of acne lesions. Dr. Levine will recommend which combination of lasers, LED (light emission diode) treatment, or photodynamic therapy may work to best treat your specific acne condition.

Persistent, chronic acne may result in pitting and scarring of the skin. A combination of laser skin resurfacing techniques can target both the surface and deeper layers of skin to help improve the appearance of acne scarring. On the surface, lasers can be used to precisely ablate thin layers of damaged skin. As the skin heals, the treated area can result in smoother-looking skin by resurfacing the growth of new, fresh skin cells. Laser energy may also work to improve skin at a deeper level by stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms and encouraging the production of new collagen. This can result in continued improvement in skin texture in the months following treatment.