Laser for facial acne: an overview of the treatment process Facial acne is a common skin condition that can impact anyone at any age. It’s caused by bacteria, which are usually found on the surface of your skin. When the pores clog up, it allows dirt and oil to build up inside them. This can lead to pimples and other types of acne-related skin lesions. There are many different treatments available for the removal of facial acne. Some methods include chemical peels, microdermabrasion treatments, and laser treatments. Each of these methods has their own set of drawbacks and benefits, but one thing they all have in common is that they’re fairly expensive and require multiple sessions in order to achieve good results.
Laser treatments are one of the most popular ways to treat facial acne because they typically provide long-term results without requiring much maintenance after initial treatment sessions have been completed. Today we’ll be discussing what you can expect from this type of treatment so that you can decide whether or not it’s right for your needs!
Laser for facial acne is a method of using laser for a procedure that can treat acne. What does laser do to help with acne? There are different kinds of lasers to address the problem of treating acne, but what they all have in common is that they heat part of the skin.The heat from the lasers kill the bacteria that cause acne. It also opens up pores and makes them easier to clean out so they don’t get blocked. read on to learn more about laser treatment for active acne/laser treatment for acne reviews.
Laser For Facial Acne
Lasers and other light therapies may seem like the perfect acne treatment. Just beam a light to make the acne disappear.
Using them is actually a bit more involved and the results less predictable, even in the skilled hands of a dermatologist. Still, these treatments can be an effective part of an acne treatment plan.
The following explains what you can expect from an in-office acne treatment that uses a laser or other light treatment.
- Before and after 3 laser treatments for acne: This 29-year-old man has good clearing, but you still see some acne.Most people see clearing, but it’s not 100%.
Studies show that lasers and other light treatments can reduce acne. Rarely can these treatments alone clear acne. To give you the best results, your dermatologist may recommend using another acne treatment, such as medicine that you apply to your skin. - Results vary from person to person.
Right now, there’s no way to know who will see clearer skin and how much the skin will clear when treated with a laser or other light treatment. - To get results, most people need a series of treatments.
Several studies have shown that multiple treatments deliver significantly better results than a single treatment. - It takes time to see results.
In studies, researchers continually find that patients see the best results weeks after the last treatment. In one study, patients treated with a type of light therapy called photodynamic therapy had 50% fewer spots at the end of the 4-week treatment period. Twelve weeks after the last treatment, they had a 72% reduction. - Follow-up treatments may be necessary.
Results from lasers and light therapies are generally long lasting. To maintain results, however, patients often need follow-up treatments once or twice a year. - Side effects are possible with lasers and other light treatments.
Redness and swelling are common after treatment with many lasers and light treatments. Some patients say their skin stings or burns. These are usually mild and disappear within a few hours or by the next day. Other side effects are rare; however, they can occur. These include lingering pain, burns, or blisters. Changes in your skin color and scarring are also possible. Getting treatment from a board-certified dermatologist who frequently uses lasers can help prevent these side effects. - Patients need to follow their dermatologist’s instructions carefully.
To help their patients get the best results and avoid side effects, dermatologists give instructions both before and after treatment. It’s essential to do everything as instructed. For example, after having photodynamic therapy, patients must avoid sunlight for 48 hours. - Good acne skincare helps deliver the best results.
Acne-prone skin requires gentle skin care to prevent new breakouts. You’ll find what dermatologists recommend at, Acne: Tips for Managing.
The future looks bright for treating acne with lasers and lights
These treatments show great promise in treating acne. Some patients with severe acne cysts have seen clearing for years when laser therapy was added to their treatment plan.
More studies are needed to know what will work best for most people. In the meantime, if you think a laser or light treatment can improve your acne, you should talk with a dermatologist. This doctor can tell you if you’d be a good candidate for this treatment.
Types of lasers and lights used to treat acne
No one laser or light treatment can treat pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, acne cysts, and acne nodules. That’s why different types of lasers and light therapies are used to treat acne. The following explains what the different types of lasers and lights can and cannot treat.
Blue, red, and blue + red light devices: Called visible light because you can see the colors, these devices can treat pimples. Visible light is not effective against blackheads, whiteheads, acne cysts, or nodules.
At-home devices: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some visible-light LED devices (blue, red, and blue + red light devices) for at-home use. These devices are less powerful than the ones a dermatologist uses. As stated above, visible light can only treat pimples.
There is no way to know who will see results. If you want to give it a try, you’ll need to use an at-home device twice a day. Some devices you need to use for 30 to 60 minutes, twice a day, for 4 to 5 weeks.
Infrared light: The FDA has approved this type of light to treat pimples, including those that develop on the back. Infrared light cannot treat blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or nodules.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): During PDT, a solution that makes the skin more sensitive to light is applied to acne-prone skin. The solution must sit on the skin for a while, between 15 minutes and 3 hours. Next, a dermatologist uses a laser or light device to treat the skin.
PDT therapy shows great promise in helping to treat severe acne. Some patients who had acne cysts have been clear for years after receiving PDT from a dermatologist.
Photopneumatic therapy: This treatment combines an intense pulsed light (IPL) laser with a gentle vacuum. It works by removing excess oil and dead skin cells from clogged pores. It is FDA-approved to treat blackheads, whiteheads, and some pimples. It cannot treat acne nodules or cysts.
Laser Treatment For Active Acne
tissue. At the same time, the treatment encourages new, healthy skin cells to grow and replace the scar tissue.
While this treatment doesn’t completely remove acne scars, it can reduce their appearance and also minimize pain caused by them.
If you have active acne, a darker skin tone, or very wrinkled skin, you might not be a good candidate for this treatment. Only a dermatologist can tell you if laser treatment for acne scars is a good course of action for you.
Cost
Laser treatment for acne scars isn’t typically covered by insurance.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average out-of-pocket cost for laser skin resurfacing is around $2,000 for ablative and $1,100 for non-ablative laser treatments. The cost of your treatment will depend on several factors, including:
- the number of scars you’re treating
- the size of the area being targeted for treatment
- the number of treatments you’ll need
- the experience level of your provider
This treatment doesn’t require recovery downtime. You can plan to be back to work after a day or two.
You might want to consult with a few different providers before you decide on one to perform your laser treatment. Some doctors will charge a consultation fee to take a look at your skin and recommend a treatment plan.
How it works
Laser treatment for acne scarring works in two ways.
First, heat from the laser works to remove the top layer of your skin where a scar has formed. As this top layer of your scar peels off, your skin appears smoother, and the appearance of the scar is less noticeable.
As the scar tissue breaks apart, heat and light from the laser also encourage new, healthy skin cells to grow. Blood flow is drawn to the area by the heat of the laser, and inflammation is reduced as blood vessels in the scar are targeted.
All of this combines to make scars look less raised and red, giving them a smaller appearance. It also promotes the healing of your skin.
Procedure
Some common kinds of lasers used for acne scarring are erbium YAG lasers, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, and pulsed-dye lasers. Each of these devices work in a specific way to target the type of scarring that you have.
Ablative laser resurfacing
Ablative resurfacing uses an erbium YAG or carbon dioxide CO2 laser. This kind of laser treatment aims to remove the entire top layer of your skin in the area where you have scarring. It can take 3 to 10 days before the redness from ablative lasers begins to subside.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing
This type of laser treatment for acne scars uses infrared lasers. The heat from these types of lasers is meant to stimulate collagen production and encourage new cell growth to replace damaged, scarred tissue.
Fractionated laser treatment
Fractional lasers (Fraxel) aim to stimulate the tissue underneath your scar to remove cells that are darkly pigmented underneath the top layer of skin. Boxcar and icepick scars sometimes respond well to this kind of laser.
Targeted areas
Lasers for acne scarring tend to target your face. But the treatment can also be applied to other areas where acne scars tend to appear. Typical targeted treatment areas include:
- face
- arms
- back
- upper torso
- neck
Risks and side effects
There are some risks and side effects when you use lasers to treat your acne scars. These side effects will vary according to what kind of laser is used, your skin type, and how many treatments you need.
Typical side effects may include:
- swelling
- redness
- pain at the site of treatment
Pain from laser treatment for acne scars is usually gone after an hour or two. Redness may take up to 10 days to subside.
Risks of using laser treatment to lessen the appearance of acne scarring include hyperpigmentation and infection. While these conditions are rare and often preventable, it’s important to speak to your doctor about your risk factors before you decide to go ahead with treatment.
If you notice pus, extensive swelling, or fever after laser treatment for acne scarring, you’ll need to speak to your provider right away.
Before and after pictures
Here are some real-life examples of using lasers for treating acne scars.
What to expect
It’s important to have realistic expectations going into any cosmetic procedure. Remember that laser treatment won’t take away your acne scars completely. In the best-case scenario, your scars will be far less noticeable, but there’s really no way to know how well it’ll work for you.
After laser treatment, you’ll need to be extra vigilant about your skin care in the weeks and months to come. Your skin will be more vulnerable to damage from the sun, so applying sunscreen before you leave the house is a must.
You’ll also need to avoid tanning or other activities that lead to extensive sun exposure for 6 to 8 weeks.
Your doctor may also give you special skin care instructions, such as a using a special toner or moisturizer, to help maximize the effects of your treatment.
You’ll need to keep the treated area clean to prevent infection, and your skin might have residual redness for days or even weeks. You may also need to avoid wearing makeup for a week or more, until the risk of complications has passed.
The results of your treatment won’t be visible right away. Within 7 to 10 days, you’ll start to see how well the treatment worked to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Results of this treatment are permanent.
Preparing for treatment
You may need to make some lifestyle changes to be eligible for laser treatment for acne scars. Preparation for this treatment often includes:
- no aspirin or blood-thinning supplements for 2 weeks prior to the procedure
- no smoking for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment
- no skin care products that contain retinol for 2 weeks before your treatment
On a case-by-case basis, you may need to temporarily stop your acne treatment medications ahead of laser treatment. You may be prescribed a preventive antibiotic medication if you’re prone to cold sores.
How to find a provider
Laser treatment is a simple and effective way to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Speaking with a board-certified dermatologist is the first step to finding out if this treatment is right for you. If you’re concerned about your acne scars and don’t already have a dermatologist, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. You may want to shop around and speak to different providers to figure out which treatment option is right for you and your budget.
Taking aim at breakouts can be particularly tricky. “Treating acne in the office with light therapy and at-home devices is an art form that challenges even the most experienced board certified dermatologist,” says Ellen Marmur, M.D. The difficulty, she adds, is that “acne is a manifestation of a very complex inflammatory response to a patient’s environment, habits, diet, sleep patterns, and other variables.” In other words, there’s no magic bullet—or flash of light—that will clear everyone’s complexion in the same way.
So what treatments still reign supreme and are worth investing in? Most experts agree that a multi-pronged approach—that tackles acne from many different angles—delivers long-term results. Think of it as cross-training for your skin; in other words, the answer is built on a thoughtful combination of three major principles, overseen by a skilled dermatologist.
1. Commit to a pore-clearing range of pro treatments.
Depending on the type and severity of breakouts, dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, M.D., often recommends a course of Adapalene, a resurfacing retinoid cream, along with monthly exfoliating chemical peels (20 to 35 percent trichloroacetic acid) and Isolaz sessions (which utilize red and blue light to kill bacteria and calm inflammation). Marmur, meanwhile, might pair Clear + Brilliant laser treatments (“which pierce tiny holes” in the skin to release trapped debris in pores) with purifying HydraFacials that gently slough dead skin and deliver brightening agents and collagen-building peptides for an “amazing radiance.”
2. Invest in an at-home device—and be consistent.
The price for pro-level treatments can add up—hence the popularity of at-home light therapy devices. Nazarian, for her part, does see noticeable results from skin-clearing gadgets such as Tria Beauty’s Positively Clear Acne Clearing Blue Light or Neutrogena’s Light Therapy Acne Mask, both of which rely on blue light to eliminate P. acnes bacteria and get to the root cause of breakouts. (And if your tool also emits red light, Nazarian finds it can “improve residual marks left on skin even after pimples have gone away.”) With any at-home device, though, consistency is key. “Daily use is important because the light treatments are not as strong as in-office versions,” says Nazarian.
3. Practice daily maintenance—but recalibrate when necessary.
To maintain results, Marmur says having a flexible routine that can shift with the seasons and “life fluctuations, like hormones” is critical. So is sticking to good skin-care habits, including washing with cosmeceutical-grade cleansers and barrier-strengthening moisturizers (she’s loyal to SkinMedica Purifying Foaming Wash and SkinBetter Interfuse Treatment Cream, respectively). Lastly, track any changes in your complexion with your dermatologist so you can make adjustments and recalibrate your routine over time. As Marmur says, “There is definitely not a one-size-fits-all acne treatment.”
Laser Treatment For Acne Reviews
Do you know there are many treatment options for reducing acne scars, burn marks, accidental scars and pigmented scars available in various skin clinics? Read this article to know more about the different scar removal treatments available in India and their respective cost per session. In addition to this, learn why laser scar removal treatment is a better bet compared to all other procedures.
Why Should You Opt For Scar Removal Treatment?
You may be looking for scar removal treatments if you have the following types of scars.
- Acne Scars– You may be having acne scars if you had regular breakouts as a teenager or young adult. Scars due to acne can vary in appearance from deep pits and deep V-shaped scars to those having irregular edges and undulating surfaces. Acne scars can be a significant aesthetic concern as they adversely affect the texture of your skin and therefore, treatments to correct it are in huge demand.
- Other Scars – Apart from acne, other causes like injury, burns, cuts, scratches, chickenpox, surgical procedures (e.g., C-section) and sutures can leave a visible mark or scar on your skin.
Must Read: Effective Treatment For Acne Scars And Pimple Marks
How Can A Scar Revision Treatment Help?
With the advancement of dermatology, several treatment options are available to correct scarred tissue. Broadly, any scar correction procedure falls under non-surgical and surgical solutions, each involving different costs and benefits. The question arises why laser scar removal treatment always stands out. Let’s understand the laser procedure for scar removal and its benefits in detail.
How Does Laser Scar Removal Work?
Laser treatment uses high-intensity focused light energy in a controlled manner to treat the scarred tissue. The deeper skin layers absorb the heat generated to heal the damaged tissue. It stimulates the fibroblast cells to produce collagen and result in the complete remodelling of the scar tissue. This reduces the appearance of scars and offers a visible improvement in your skin texture.
Laser scar removal primarily helps treat all types of post-acne scars, including atrophic and hypertrophic scars. It also helps diminish chickenpox scars. Doctors may recommend laser procedure as a standalone or combination treatment based on the type of scar you have.
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Cost Of Laser Treatment For Acne Scars
The packages for laser acne scar removal available in India vary between Rs 7,000 and Rs 20,000 per session, depending on the size of the area treated. However, it may differ for one person to another based on the type and severity of the scar, the treatment option selected and the number of sessions recommended.
Laser treatment for other scars/marks
- The packages for laser treatment of chickenpox scars cost between Rs 6,000 and Rs 20,000.
- The packages for laser treatment of burn marks cost from Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000.
- The packages for laser removal of accident/injury scars have a price range of Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000.
Please note that the above prices are indicative only. It may vary from clinic to clinic due to its location and reputation, the experience of the dermatologist performing the procedure and the laser technology used. It is advisable to visit a reputed skin clinic to know the exact cost of laser scar removal treatment.
Here is a price comparison of laser scar removal treatment available across some major cities in India:
Here is a price comparison across some major cities in India:
| Laser Treatment for Acne Scars (Cost/Session) | ||
| City | Minimum | Maximum |
| Bangalore | Rs 7,000 | Rs 20,000 |
| Chennai | Rs 7,000 | Rs 20,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs 7,000 | Rs 20,000 |
| Kochi | Rs 5,000 | Rs 18,000 |
| Mumbai | Rs 8,000 | Rs 22,000 |
| NCR (Delhi) | Rs 8,000 | Rs 22,000 |
| Pune | Rs 6,000 | Rs 18,000 |
| Visakhapatnam | Rs 5,000 | Rs 17,000 |
| Kolkata | Rs 7,000 | Rs 20,000 |
| Vijayawada | Rs 5,000 | Rs 15,000 |
Why Does Price Of Laser Treatment For Scar Removal Vary?
The following factors influence the price of laser scar removal in India-
- Size Of The Scar – The size of the scar plays a vital role in analysing the modality of treatment and the number of sessions required. Both these factors may up the price of treatment.
- Depth Of The Scar – Scars that penetrate the deeper layers of skin, will need more sessions of laser treatment and involve a higher cost of treatment.
- Type Of Scar – Different types of scars require a combination treatment which may increase the expense involved.
- Experienced Practitioner – A trained doctor with more experience in using specialised techniques may command a higher fee for the procedure.
- Clinic Location – Clinics located in major cities and at posh localities may charge a premium for offering advanced aesthetic treatments.
Other Scar Revision Treatments And Cost
Here are some of the other dermatologist-recommended treatments for scar removal and their cost details.
- Chemical Peels: Dermatologists use plant-based extracts to exfoliate the upper layers of dead skin. The treatment helps fade pigmented scars to a large extent. The price of chemical peeling treatment for scars ranges from Rs 3,000 to Rs 7,000 per session.Micro-needling Radiofrequency (MNRF): Radiofrequency currents help to create thermal zones in the dermis and reduce scars. The heat generated stimulates new collagen production and improves the appearance of the skin. The average cost of MNRF treatment for scar is between Rs 10,000 and Rs 25,000 per session.
- Microdermabrasion: It is a mildly abrasive treatment that helps remove the dead cells from the surface layer to reveal undamaged and firmer skin. The average cost of microdermabrasion treatment for scars is between Rs 2,000 and Rs 5,000 per session.
- Dermal Fillers: Doctors administer fillers containing hyaluronic acid at the site of the depressed scar to fill it for a few months or up to a year. Over time, the enzymes in the body digest the hyaluronic acid. This modality of treatment does not offer long-lasting results. Price of scar treatment using dermal fillers ranges from Rs 20,000 to Rs 1, 00,000 per session (based on the brand).
- Skin Grafting: This is a complicated surgical procedure that involves using a graft from body areas with higher fat content, such as the thighs and transplanting it in the target area. Doctors use this modality for treating burn marks or post-traumatic scars. Surgical options tend to be invasive, expensive, and involve significant downtime. The price range for skin grafting treatment starts from Rs 50,000 and goes up to Rs 1,00,000.
- Excision: This procedure reduces the appearance of the scar by cutting the damaged tissue out and fusing the skin with multiple layers of appropriate sutures. The cost of the treatment starts from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per session.
- Topical Applications: Silicon-based scar removal creams may be available OTC, but it is advisable to ask a doctor before using them. Topical creams have a limited effect in comparison to laser scar removal treatment as they cannot penetrate the deeper layers of skin. Price for topical applications ranges from Rs 900 to Rs 7,000 based on the brand and composition.
A doctor decides the modality of treatment based on the type and the severity of the scar. Laser treatments are one of the most effective procedures for scar removal due to their precision and efficacy. However, your dermatologist may advise it in combination with MNRF and chemical peels procedure to achieve the best results.
Lasers Vs Other Scar Removal Treatments
Laser treatment is one of the most effective procedures for scar removal due to its precision and efficacy. However, your dermatologist may advise it in combination with MNRF and chemical peels procedure to achieve the best results.
Here are some of the top benefits that laser scar removal treatment offers:
- Quick Procedure – The average session may last up to 2 hours which includes the preparation time for the laser therapy that involves the application of numbing cream.
- Minimal Downtime – There may be marginal and manageable downtime. Adequate post-care support can minimise your recovery time.
- Effective Results – You can see a noticeable reduction in the appearance of your scars after undergoing 6-8 sessions. However, your doctor will recommend the exact number of sessions you need based on the type and the severity of your scars.
- Non-Surgical Procedure – The procedure is non-invasive and involves minimal discomfort. It causes no cuts or blood loss.
- No Side Effects – The use of the latest USFDA approved laser technology ensures it is a safe procedure and does not involve any risk of infection or burns.
- Convenient – It is the best option compared to other scar removal methods as it is super convenient.
- Precise – Experienced dermatologists customise the parameters of the laser treatment to treat your scars with precision without causing damage to the surrounding tissue.
- Versatile – It is a suitable procedure for all Indian skin types.