Sores, spots, rashes and scars often accompany skin disorders of the face. These blemishes cause embarrassment and may result in reduced confidence or low self-esteem. Skin cancer can spread quickly if it is not treated. Facial skin light therapy treats blemishes and kills cancerous cells before they can spread to other parts of the body. Consider the benefits and risks of light therapy before contacting a doctor to discuss your treatment options.
Types
Intense pulsed light (flashlamp therapy) improves the appearance of skin affected by freckles, wrinkles and skin disorders. Light emitting diode (LED) rejuvenation uses visible and near infrared light to improve the appearance of the skin. Photodynamic therapy treats skin cancer by using light to activate a drug that kills malignant cells. This light therapy also treats premalignant skin lesions, sun damage and acne.
Uses
Light therapy treats the effects of many skin disorders. In addition to treating cancer, acne, freckles and wrinkles, photodynamic therapy can benefit those with eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, vitiligo and atopic dermatitis.
Benefits
Non-invasive light therapy has fewer risks than more invasive skin therapies. Phototherapy involving UVA-1 radiation does not cause sunburn and increases the elasticity of the skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Light therapy destroys less tissue than laser treatments and skin peels. This reduces pain and shortens the recovery period. Photodynamic therapy used to treat skin cancer produces fewer effects than systemic cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy.
Risks and Disadvantages
Risks of photodynamic therapy include redness, swelling, stinging and burning. An allergic reaction to the photosensitizing agent may occur. Because light therapy is a relatively new treatment, medical professionals do not know the long-term risks of the procedure. The American Cancer Society reports that long-term risks may include increased risk for skin cancer and cataracts. The risk for sunburn increases on the day of UV light treatment, making it necessary to avoid natural sunlight. Light therapy costs several hundred dollars per treatment, making it an expensive procedure that may not be accessible to those with limited budgets.
Alternatives
Several alternatives to light therapy are available for treating acne, skin cancer and other skin disorders of the face. Topical medications, oral antibiotics and oral isotretinoin treat acne. Topical corticosteroids, moisturizers, vitamin D analogues, salicylic acid and coal tar treat psoriasis by reducing inflammation and smoothing the skin. Chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy treat skin cancer. Topical medications also treat eczema, dermatitis and other skin conditions.
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