Phototherapy
Reviews
3.2
252 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
29.2%
4
24.1%
3
9.9%
2
12.6%
1
24.1%

Used Light Therapy? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
September 19, 2008

Pros:

It works for some of my acne. The acne actually shrink. It's small that you can bring it with you whenever you go.

Cons:

Doesn't seem work for all of my acne.

It's an affordable price. At least it works for me on few of my big bumps. I've tried almost everything on both prescriptive and over-the counter products, even including the antibiotics. None of them work for me so far.
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December 28, 2008

Pros:

There are no pros

Cons:

Didn't do anything. Actually looks like my acne got worse (little whiteheads).

Worst thing is that I had hopes that this might work. I spent alot of time and all I got was disappointment. Sad.
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September 13, 2010

Pros:

It cleared up my face fast. with a help of an atibiotics. really seen the result for the 1st or 2nd week of the treatment/session!

Cons:

makes your skin sensitive.(especially in the sun) other than that nothing!

i have clear face before when i was in my teens i never really had any issue or worry about having aq zits biut when i reached my 20's i started to notticed that my face is starting to gets worst. i had acne all over my face. it was so fraustrating that i dont want to go outside the house no more or i put lots of makeup to hide it... ive tried proactive and every product in commercial or even drug store that says and promise to clear your face within weeks but sad to say they all crap! so here am i one day i search about treatment and found about this red and blue laser treatment i was skeptical at first but i was like it wont kill me if ill just try. my doctor charge me $55 dollar per session and i have to do it twice a week. i am in my 5th week now and i am so happy.. my face just cleared up and i dont have acne now/. i am just working for my next step coz it left me discoloration on my face..
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November 6, 2009

Pros:

It works! No messy creams to run out of, nothing to take or apply, no side affects.

Cons:

Problems finding time to use when on a strict schedule, not really transportable. Annoying sometimes to sit with your face in a bright light for 15 minutes if busy.

Well worth the money. It made a huge difference in my acne. It noticeably reduces swelling and redness in the breakouts I do have. I use this in conjunction with Rezamid and regular face washing. You need to use it when your face is totally clean! Don't apply anything to any blemishes until after you're done. You also need to get a strict 15 minutes in every day... if I miss more than two days, I start breaking out bad.
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October 2, 2009

Pros:

Weekly G-waves treatments made an amazing difference in my skin. Cystic acne and Rosacea virtually disappeared, and scars and roughness were much improved.

Cons:

Cost—about $100 per treatment.

If you have Rosacea and adult acne, G-Waves is definitely worth a try. It may kill acne bacteria and promotes changes that lead to healthier skin.
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February 6, 2009

Pros:

Took a golfball size cyst away in one day

Cons:

lots money

I have cystic acne. this worked well. i had one that suddenly grew giant! huge huge. this worked. went back a few times to work on some spots. looking for a home laser.
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December 30, 2006

Pros:

Nil.. the only one positive thing I have gained is that the wrinkle between my eyes has reduced a bit!

Cons:

Why weren't these ratings on acne.org when I was on here before I began treatment... my acne is now about 5 times worse, I'm so upset.. I thought it would work and no-one warned me that it 'could' get worse, much worse, I can't even look at myself.

Nothing is worth risking your condition getting worse, life's hard enough as it is.
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September 23, 2007

Pros:

-No more oral medication. -No side effect. -It can use on any body areas. -It safe, fast and inexpensive!

Cons:

-Feel a little heat.
-It can't cure cloged pore or comedone under your skin.

I had this treatment (iClear) twice and it works great! My skin looks much more clearer without taking any dangerous oral medication. But since it can't cure cloged pore or comedone your doctor will have to pull them off before the treatment. Combination with Micro-Dermabrasion is also recommended, it will remove dead and flaking skin cells. I only have to get it for a month (twice a week)And it cost only 700 bucks! *REMEMBER* you can't permanently cured acne, but you can avoid the future breakouts by using skin products that suit your skin type, have healthy diet and exercise everyday. Wishing you guys a crystal clear face! =)
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July 26, 2010

Pros:

-fairly easy to transport
-works (slowly) to reduce inflammation and bacteria

Cons:

-can be hard to find time to sit in front of it for 15-30 minutes a day
- finding a way to sit in front of it comfortably can be difficult
-your family/friends/significant other(s) may laugh at you if they see you sittng in front of it :P
-you have to be patient with it, as results don't typicaly come immediately after first or second use
-expensive for those on a tight budget

I am on spironolactone for my acne, so I am clear in that regard. I still have red marks left from the acne and rosacea inflammation, and this is why I am using Red/Blue light therapy. I am pretty pleased with the results - no, my skin isn't flawless, but I can't expect it to be after the horrors it's been through. My red marks have been reduced as well as the small papules I sometimes get when my face gets too hot. My overall facial pinkness has been reduced as well. Overall, I think that Clearwave is as effective as other Red/Blue light therapy products, but if you can find something cheaper or more to your liking (for instance, a product that it more convenient to use), you should go for that instead. Also, making your own LED light board might be less expensive than buying one. Directions can probably be found through a quick google search. Good luck!
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April 30, 2008

Pros:

None, it didn't seem to work at all

Cons:

Cost alot(for what it was -essentially a light been shone on my face), time consuming, got my hopes up

I've had acne for 9 yrs, used accutane and other medicines, but nothing worked. I was hopeful in trying this as I'd never used anything like it. I had acnelux blue light treatment twice weekly for 9 sessions. I also used 'murad' products in conjunction. I saw no improvement at all, infact it seemed to worsen after 3 sessions (which i was told to expect). I was told there should be improvement 4-8 weeks after I started. It's now been 3 months and I haven't seen any improvement whatsoever. Big disappointment.
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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.