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.
Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Used Lasers? Rate It:
Choose from 1 to 5 stars
May 10, 2015
Pleased with results
I have had 2 of my 3 Nlite laser treatments and am rea and pleased with the results!! I had awful cystic acne and have suffered with adult acne for a long time so my skin was in a right state when I had my first appointment. I would say week 1 was less active then my acne continued to be fairly active until week 4-5 when new ones slowed and it started to heal. I am now 4 weeks after my second treatment and although I still have a couple of active pimples my skin has improved remarkably! I have not suffered any big cystic ones since the first couple of weeks after treatment. I still have a way to go in terms of the marks fading and some scaring but I finally feel like my acne is under control and is healing faster than new ones are coming. I would definitely reccomend this. Even though this is expensive I wish I had done it years ago abd naybe could have prevented some of the damage caused by cystic acne. I have had the Nlite in combination with a 40% glycolic acid peel before each Nlite lasted treatment. And using a milder glycolic acid face wash twice daily.
August 5, 2011
Cons:
Just had my second treatment and my skin has flared up.
I've booked three N-lite treatments. My acne is localised to my chin area and this is the area I am having treated. For the month after my first treatment, my skin seemed much calmer. I didn't have a single big spot! I got my usual monthly flare up but it really wasn't too bad. Just had my second treatment and more spots have come to the surface than usual. It's getting me down, but I'm hoping skin will eventually be better after my third treatment. The lady who does my treatments did explain that its not a quick fix- it takes several months. I'm also using a glycolic based wash and skin lotion. This seems to be helping to.
I'm 24 and have tried and tried to get rid of my mild to moderate acne for years. I'm hoping this is the solution!
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]
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!
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.
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
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.
September 29, 2009
Pros:
After suffering for 6 years i had 6 months of treatment and have no acne and much smaller scars
Cons:
you have to be preparred to perservere with treatment, dont expect to have one treatment and be clear. I have had about 10 treatments over a year to see such good results although it began to clear after about 4
Im not trying to sell this so will say it how it is...If you dont mind spending the money and are prepared to continue with this for at least 6 months then it worked for me. For the first 2 or 3 treatments i didnt notice much difference but after that each treatment helped a little more. After about 10 treatments over a year i have clear skin apart from the odd small pimple once or twice a month and it has been 9 months since my last treatment.
September 16, 2009
Pros:
I am a 50 year old person with adult acne. After about 4 treatments, I started seeing results. By the sixth treatment I was not getting breakout.
Cons:
It is a bit painful, but well worth it.
I have moved to Montgomery, AL and can not find anyone that has the lazer. I am very bummed out and would sell the lazer myself if I knew who to get a hold of to be a sales person. They need to get on board down here in the South.
September 10, 2009
Pros:
Amazing results. Had it done to remove fine lines, some wrinkles, some sun freckles and sun damage. I got all of that and more.
Skin is so smooth and fresh.
Cons:
It was a solid 9 days of down time and at 4 weeks of healing, I am still a bit red. All of this is exactly what I expected.
Erbium laser is extremely technique sensitive and if you have an excellent doctor perform the procedure and do the pre and post treatment instructions exactly as they suggest, it should go well. I had a fabulous doctor who continue to do a lot of follow up to make sure I am healing the way I should be. Do your homework and be an informed patient.
Pros:
Spots are greatly reduced in size
Comfortable treatment and you can re-apply make up after! No negative side effects.