Acne therapy through technology with Cutera® Lasers
Many of us have been battling acne by using the typical creams and ointments, but now there is an innovative technology that can leave your skin looking clearer and smoother in just a few short weeks.
Acne is a condition that causes inflammation of the skin in the form of clogged pores, pimples, cysts, blackheads and whiteheads. Severe acne can lead to scarring. Using a cutting edge topical medicine, called aminolevulinic acid HCl, (ALA), we can permanently reduce the bacteria in the skin to help reduce active acne and subsequently, your risk for acne scarring. Teens, men, and women can benefit from our advanced ALA/IPL treatments performed at Limelight Medspa and Cosmetic Laser Centre.
How Does ALA with Limelight Photofacial Work?
After the skin is thoroughly cleaned and prepped, the ALA chemical is placed directly on the skin. It is left on the skin from 1-3 hours, allowing it to be soaked into the skin. Once the ALA has been absorbed, the Cutera Intense Pulsed Light Treatment is used to activate the ingredients within the ALA and then destroys acne by heating the sebaceous glands found in the dermis (the upper layers) of the skin, which reduces oil production, which in turn reduces the active acne. This takes place over the course of 1-3 treatments within 2-4 weeks. This ALA/IPL treatment is a controlled pulse given in a high-speed uniform manner with integrated contact cooling; the result of controlling the skin’s surface temperature is for maximum patient comfort.
Chronic acne scarring can be treated by using our other lasers, including Laser Genesis and Pearl Laser Peel.
How many treatments are usually needed?
Studies have shown that for many patients the results for acne reduction can be seen in 1-3 treatments. The reduction of acne and the number of breakouts is significantly reduced long term.
During your initial consultation, options for treatments will be discussed to determine the best course of action for achieving your specific goals. We will also discuss your treatment schedule and what results you can expect.
What is a treatment session like?
When you arrive for your acne treatment you will need to put safety goggles or glasses on to protect your eyes. As your doctor begins the procedure you may notice a warming sensation on your skin. When the Limelight Photofacial is used, many patients describe a snapping sensation very similar to a rubber band snap. This happens as the pulsed light energy is absorbed into the specific treatment areas.
The treatment session will take between 15 and 30 minutes. The length of your procedure will depend on the size of the area being treated, the type of procedure, and how deep the pulsed light needs to penetrate.
What should I expect following a treatment session?
Most patients experience redness following an acne treatment. This will fade 12-24 hours typically. Results will vary depending on the type of condition being treated. Your doctor will provide you more detailed information about what to expect following a treatment session.
Since this type of acne therapy is gentle and non-invasive there is little downtime and you will be able to continue with your day without missing a step.
What aftercare is required following an acne treatment?
Your doctor will detail your aftercare requirements before beginning your treatments. You may be instructed to use certain skin care products to help minimize any inflammation or redness, as well as to shorten healing time. Your doctor will also provide instructions on how to use any products given.
It is important to remember that your skin will be sensitive to ultra-violet light so you need to avoid direct sunlight until you heal completely. It is also recommended that you use a sunscreen whenever you are in direct sun.
For more information regarding Acne Treatments…
Give Limelight Medspa a call for more information about our advanced acne laser treatments. We offer comprehensive consultations with only the most experienced staff. We look forward to hearing from you!
[abm-callout type=”doctors”]If you would like to learn more about Laser Services with Dr. Burt and Dr. Will, please contact their plastic surgery practice.[/abm-callout]