5 FAQ’s About Laser Acne Treatment

Acne can affect individuals throughout adulthood and produce blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, and cysts.

Not only are these bumps unattractive, but they can also leave behind hyperpigmentation and scarring once they heal.

Fortunately, a laser acne treatment can target all of these concerns for a healthier and more even complexion.

If you’re experiencing active acne or secondary effects, keep reading for five FAQs about laser acne treatment.

1. Can Lasers Really Combat Acne, Scarring, and Hyperpigmentation?

Laser acne treatments are a safe and effective way to address inflammation, redness, swelling, scarring, and discoloration associated with acne.

More specifically, these devices use light-based energy to zap acne-causing bacteria, reduce oil production, remove dead skin cells, smooth acne scars, and diminish hyperpigmentation.

2. What Options Do Patients Have for Laser Acne Treatment?

The most appropriate laser acne treatment often depends on the patient’s concerns.

IPL (intense pulsed light) is an excellent option for active acne, redness, and hyperpigmentation, while skin resurfacing with a non-ablative fractional laser or a CO2 laser may be better suited for acne scars.

3. How Do I Know If I’m a Good Candidate for a Laser Acne Treatment?

Laser acne treatments can benefit a wide-range of patients and a number of aesthetic issues. In order to determine each individual’s candidacy, a thorough consultation and examination of the skin must be conducted.

During this time, it’s important to discuss patient goals, current medications, underlying or associated medical conditions like PCOS, and past acne treatments.   

Additionally, a skin analysis may be performed to identify the type of acne scarring present and the degree of damage.

4. Are There Any Side Effects of a Laser Acne Treatment?

A laser acne treatment does not require incisions, anesthesia, or downtime.

That being said, patients may experience temporary redness and swelling, which like looks and feels like a mild sunburn.

They should also limit sun exposure for two weeks before and after their procedure and wear a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF.

5. What Kind of Results Can I Expect?

After undergoing a laser acne treatment, patients note that their skin is smoother, clearer, and more even and that scarring and hyperpigmentation have significantly decreased.

In fact, a series of three-to-five sessions can yield an up to an 80 percent reduction in acne-related issues.

To learn more about laser acne treatment, please call our office today to schedule a consultation.