Phototherapy
Reviews
3.2
251 Reviews
Phototherapy
Efficacy
51%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Phototherapy
Side Effects
Low
Phototherapy
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Light therapy is a temporary and time-consuming treatment option that produces only modest results. However, it is the least invasive of any acne treatment, and its only downside is that it reduces folic acid levels.
Phototherapy
How to Get It
Light therapy can be performed with stronger, professional light devices at a doctor’s office. 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. Weaker light therapy devices are also available over-the-counter. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Light Therapy
Compare To Other Treatments
5
29.4%
4
24.2%
3
9.9%
2
12.3%
1
24.2%

Used Light Therapy? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
January 26, 2008

Pros:

Clears skin fresh light skin and healthy glow

Cons:

expensive and redness

Well i have used a combination of clearlight and microdermabrasion 3 times now at a local beauty place and can def. see results. Most docters say you cant use microdremabrasion if you have existing acne beacuse it will irritate it but i did and didnt irritate cause the clearlight kills all the bacteria. Im also very strict on what i eat drink 5 cups of CAFFENINE FREE green tea 5 times a day and at least 3 litre of water, plus i do regular breathing techniques when felling angered or stressed. My advice would be to avoid any greasy food cause its not worth your misery be strong and you will see results its hard to ignore a yummy slice of pizza but is a pimple worth is ??not to me..Also try doing some yoga or some form of exercise where you dont sweat a alful lot. back to the clearlight i think the combination is great!!The microdermabrasion will suck out impurities and remove top layer of skin cells and clearlight will kill the bacteria deep within the skin..I hope ive helped some!:)
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November 16, 2007

Pros:

Basically, you cannot reduce scaring without going deep.

I had PSR3 done with a double pass at the highest energy setting 4 Joules.
My face peeled at day 4. Positive Burning sensations lasted 12 hours.

It works on only small scars (

Cons:

People with darker skin tones are at risk of permanent hypopigmentation. (lighter skin)
ie. loss of pigment.

I used zinc oxide cream to accelerate the improvement. ( Diaper rash cream )
This cream can cause some irritation, acne and temp

In summary, there is only Rhytec for Light scars and the riskier CO2 for deeper scars (more risk, more results, redness lasts a lot longer ). Risks of CO2 laser - scaring, hypopigmentation and Demarcation. Even more Riskier methods include Phenol Peels and Dermabrasion
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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.