Phototherapy
Reviews
2.9
232 Reviews
Phototherapy
Efficacy
65%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Phototherapy
Side Effects
Medium-High
Phototherapy
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Laser therapy works by harming skin oil glands. That can lead to some improvement in acne, and perhaps even long-term relief of some acne symptoms. However, evolution gave us skin oil glands for a reason and what happens long term when you permanently disable them is still unknown. Proceed with caution.
Phototherapy
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Lasers
Compare To Other Treatments
5
15%
4
22.3%
3
19.3%
2
21.5%
1
21.9%

Used Lasers? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
March 8, 2011

Pros:

Skin alot smoother, far less breakouts, not alot of downtime, treatment is quick, the laser can be set at different levels for your tollerance

Cons:

it can be quite pricey, can't garentee results for everyone, can be a little uncomfortable until you get used to the laser

I suffered from acne for 8 years, I then went to the The Private Clinic in Manchster to undergo N-Lite laser for the Embarrassing bodies show on Channel 4. Im alot happier with my skin now, only had 4 treatments so far, still a few more to go, but have noticed a big improvement to skin, yes still getting a few spots but not like before (mainly on cheeks and chin) forhead and sides seems to be alot clearer. Im also in the process of changing my makeup to a brand that doesnt contain bismuth oxchloride as I think this is irritating my acne. Also one woman said she removed this from her products and her acne cleared, its worth a shot! As for the clinic the staff were very friendly and advised on products to use alongside the N-lite laser (for me this was sebu b range by environ) this helped to clear some of the skin before I started the treatment (helps skin appear alot smoother) also had microdermabrasion and derma-roller for scars. So far the treatments are helping my skin alot so would definately recommend. to see me having the treatment see embarrassing bodes on you tube for 4od. This shows my treatment at the Manchester Clinic [link removed]
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February 2, 2011

Pros:

made my face feel cleaner and smoother

Cons:

my face is completley red

i have only got the first treatment done but my face is completley red. its has been 3 weeks sense my first treatment and my face is still completley red. I dont no what to do..... anyone have any ideas?
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October 17, 2010

Pros:

Skin got better shortly after the treatments, but this was just a short-term improvement.

Cons:

I had 3 treatments over the period of 2,5 months, last treatment 1 month ago. Each treatment was preceded by acid peel (50%) and the second treatment was preceded by both acid peel and microdermabrasion.

One month after the last treatment, my face looks as bad as it did before the treatments, although the areas of my face that were originally affected are now clear and I have outbreaks in the places that had never been affected before.

I was told 3 treatment would be sufficient for me, which was not the case. Or I'm yet to see the results. I may invest in another 3 treatments. I paid £400 for the series of 3 Nlite treatments in west London.
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September 22, 2010

Pros:

It actually worked - 6 months completely spot free!!

Cons:

Short term & costly! The Private Clinic are also usless.

I attended The Private Clinic in Manchester for 3 treatments, each time I asked that they increase the strength of the laser. The treatment isn't painful, but it is uncomfortable - feels a little like a pin being run over your face. Acne flares up after treatment but it is worth it! One month after my final laser-ing and I had clear skin. I have had the best 6/7 months - I haven't used any acne treatments and my skin stayed perfect. The only problem is that it has now come back :( and I need to find another £850 to fix it or find another treatment. I would recommend this treatment if you've tried all the medication and you've reached the end of the line with your useless GP who asks you why you're so bothered about 'a few spots'. I was 22 when I had the treatment and it was worth it! If you can find any other provider than The Private Clinic that offers N-Lite in the UK, go elsewhere! They were a complete sham. I won't go into detail but let's say that I attended the clinic 4 times in all, they never had my appointment correctly booked, the door was always faulty, and all in all I think I spent 2 hours waiting to be seen!!! And last but not least, don't waste extra money on the products they sell you - total waste of time!
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July 14, 2010

Pros:

Clear up active acne andd improve skin texture. Minimal side effects. I have had acne for 15+ years, and have tried numerous treatments including Accutane and other laser treatments, this is the only laser treatment that cleared up my acne.(Accutane worked too, but the side effects are too much).

Cons:

A bit pricey, and you do need to go to a doctor's office to get it done.(I drove 100 mile every 2 weeks for this treatment). Skin will be a bit dry and sensitive after the treatment, but putting on some B5 gel solved the problem in my case. I got some red marks after the treatment, but they faded in 4 to 5 days. I do get a flare of break out right after the treatment,but then my skin get cleared up. It takes several treatment to see results, so be patient.

It does work! Result will show gradually. I just finished my 4th treatment, and my skin cleared up almost completely.(only 1 zit left, I used to have at least 20 zits in average). I will post another review when I finish my 6th treatment.
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May 31, 2010

Pros:

So I have had pretty bad acne and this treatment was a lifesaver. It helped my acne and scarring and prevents new outbreaks.I get numbing cream and then the treatment is almost painfree. I get my treatments at LASERKLINIC ([link removed]). The service/treatments/staff the best.

Cons:

I get numbing cream and then the treatment is almost painfree.

Proven effective treatment for acne and acne scars and prevention of new acne!
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May 2, 2010

Pros:

Works but you have to be patient-usually after the 3rd fourth treatment you start breaking out less

Cons:

You have to be fine with being a little sensitive for a week after treatment--maybe a blister or two but so worth it.

It's not cheap but it works for my non inflammatory acne
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January 7, 2010

Pros:

Clears Acne over time.Took 6months for me.
Definately worth it

Cons:

Pretty expnsive. u need to buy products from the clinic. Jan Marini serum/cleanser which cost around £40 each

absolutely worth it. i noticed a reduction from the 1st treatment. i had 6 treatments in total. After the 2nd treatment tho, the acne does increase a fair bit but this is a way all the existing acne witin the skin can escape. 3rd - 6th treatment was just better and better for my skin. first 3 treatments are 4weeks apart and then the treatments follow if you require any topups. i did 3 extra to completely get rid of them. Now its been 3months since my last treatment. i've maybe had 3-4 minor spots in that time.
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December 3, 2009

Pros:

None

Cons:

Waste of money. Acne flared up.

I would not recommend. I have had 4 treatments.
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November 23, 2009

Pros:

5% improvement from the first treament.

Cons:

Nothing negative to say about it so far because Ive only had one treatment.

I will post a final review after all my treatments are done, but here is what I can say for now: I reall thought my face was going to be red after the first treament but no, no redness whatsoever. I did have minor swelling though, but that disappeared after 3 hours. I did see a minor improvement right after the treatment and I cant wait until Im done with all treatments.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.