Studies Show Combination Laser Therapy Effective At Clearing Acne, Reducing Oil ...(g MAL with alternative light sources. ....),Health

Other Approved Laser and Light Therapies

A photopneumatic technology using broadband light between 400nm and 1,200nm combined with a vacuum device that suctions the skin to remove oil to clear acne is another new therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas believes more long-term clinical studies need to be conducted, as the data is based on early reports of efficacy. In addition, she noted that when the skin is suctioned to remove oil, some patients complained that their pores actually appeared larger - possibly from the skin being stretched from the repeated suctioning.

The other device approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne is the 1550nm fractionated laser, which thermally burns tiny columns of tissue. In her opinion, Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas finds that this therapy - while appropriate for clearing acne scars - does not specifically target oil glands or address the underlying cause of acne. She added that reports show more recurrence of acne with the fractionated laser and a large number of patients studied did not sustain acne clearance long term.

"While FDA approval is certainly important when considering any type of acne procedure or otherwise, it does not guarantee that an approved treatment will work for you or provide a long-term solution for your condition," said Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas. "Selecting one of the new laser or light therapies for acne should be a decision based on discussions between the patient and the dermatologist to ensure the best treatment outcome."

To learn more about acne, visit the AcneNet section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and n
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