Laser Acne Treatments

Laser resurfacing is a popular treatment for many skin defects. The most popular laser types used for resurfacing of acne scars are the carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium:YAG (Er:YAG) lasers. Lasers work by essentially burning the top layers of skin to a precise depth. The skin then heals replacing the burned layers with newer appearing skin. The correct post-operative care of skin that has undergone laser resurfacing is a very important factor in determining the success of the procedure.

Why Seek Laser Treatment For Acne?

Acne is generally successfully treated with a variety of topical and oral medications. Inflammatory acne often requires the chronic use of antibiotics by mouth. Laser treatment can usually lead to a lessening of the amount of required antibiotics. Laser treatment can improve not only the inflamed acne, but also leads to improvement in acne scars.

What Lasers Are Used For Acne?

There are 2 basic groups of acne treating lasers. One group of technologies inhibits the growth of the bacteria that is involved in acne lesions. The other group of lasers shrink the sebaceous oil glands that play a pivotal role in acne. We will use the laser we feel most appropriate for the particular patient’s condition.

The pulsed dye laser procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis without general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is usually administered with a topical anesthetic cream, intralesional injections or nerve blocks. Adjacent, nonoverlapping laser pulses are delivered over the scars. The immediate result may produce a purplish coloring. The treated scars are then evaluated 6-8 weeks later, where another treatment, at the same or slightly higher strength may be necessary.

Local, regional nerve block, or intravenous sedation may be required for CO2 laser resurfacing of atrophic acne scars depending on the extent of damage. Follow-up examinations and skin cleanings are scheduled often during the first postoperative week and patients are encouraged to keep the area moistened with healing ointments and/or cooled compresses. Early evaluation and intervention are important in order to prevent long-term scarring.

To combat internal stressors and prevent acne problems, get plenty of rest and sleep. Try to maintain regular hours. Keep a check list of "Things that Calm You" handy for stressful times, like reading a book, resting, listening to music, taking a walk, going out for an ice cream cone, etc.