A number of laser and light therapies show potential as effective acne treatments, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pulsed light and heat energy therapy has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat mild to moderate acne. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says pulsed light and heat energy (LHE), also referred to as intense pulsed light (IPL,) join forces to destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce the production of sebrum (oily substance that lubricates hair and skin). The AAD says LHE therapy may help treat both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.
Effects
IPL laser systems use light energy that is transformed into heat energy to penetrate targeted cells in the skin, according to DermnetNZ.org. What separates IPL systems from other lasers is that they emit multiple wavelengths in each pulse of light rather than only one. In addition, IPL filter systems allow increased penetration without using unnecessarily high energy levels.
Non-Ablative
Since IPL therapy is a non-ablative (non-wounding) resurfacing therapy, it zeros in on the lower layers of the skin without harming the top layers. This means there is less recovery time, but the results may not be as impressive as ablative (wounding) laser resurfacing.
Procedure
IPL therapy is sometimes referred to as a "lunch hour" treatment because of its relatively short procedure time and minimal side effects. As your treatment gets underway you may receive a topical anesthetic, and a cold gel will be spread over the treatment area. You will also be given protective eyewear. The soft glass surface head of the ILP will be gently moved across your skin. You may feel a sensation that's similar to a light pinch. A series of four to six treatments is usually required for optimal results.
Side Effects
The side effects associated with IPL treatments are usually mild. Your skin may become sore and pink upon completion of the treatment. You may also experience peeling and swelling for several days. A few patients may have bruising and blistering.
Outlook
The Mayo Clinic says further studies are needed to learn the most effective use of light and laser therapies in the treatment of acne. For now the Mayo Clinic says experts currently recommend laser treatments as the primary therapy only when patients are unable to tolerate acne medications.
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