Acne

Visibly Reduce Acne in 2-4 Weeks!

More than 4 out of 5 people between the ages of 12 and 24 develop acne at least once. Many adults well into their 50′s still experience problems. Acne has several causes, including changes in hormone levels and the presence of the P. acnes bacteria, but whatever the cause, the result is unpleasant – irritated and clogged pores resulting in large and deep pimples, blackheads, cysts, etc. If not treated properly and in a timely way, acne can leave permanent scars.

Traditional therapies for treating acne involve using retinoids and topical scrubs to diminish bacteria. But these alternatives may not be effective. Some people have resorted to oral antibiotics to diminish the P. acnes bacteria or systemic retinoids like Accutane. Drugs have their benefits but can be toxic and could compromise your body’s long term health and immunity, and possibly cause liver damage.

Fortunately, there are several options available to treat acne. By using the ThermaScan™ laser, we can provide you with a precise, yet naturally effective way to eliminate acne and atrophic acne scars. This laser treatment gets effective long term results when combined with the use of our supporting powerful anti-acne cleansing system.

The other option is the Levulan blue light combination. The Levulan is photosensitive and is “painted” on the acne site like a bulls-eye. The blue light laser is then applied and activates the Levulan, which destroys the acne by damaging the oil glands. Levulan gets the greatest, fastest, and longest term results which can again be extended with the use of our supporting anti-acne cleansing system.

Acne Treatment FAQs

How does it work?

The Sciton ThermaScan™ laser is effective because, like many of the New You treatments, it works with the skin from the inside out. The laser heats the upper layers of skin so that the heat is transferred to the sebaceous glands below the skin, thus reducing the number of active acne lesions. Most people see results after 1-2 treatments. Every person is unique, but typically patients will need 2 treatments per week until acne clears. Depending on the size and depth of the area treated, your treatment should take 15-30 minutes.

The Levulan blue light combination is a more aggressive therapy requiring the skin to be first cleansed with acetone followed by an application of Levulan to the areas to be treated. After waiting 30 minutes, the Levulan is washed off and the skin is exposed to blue light for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the treated areas. Again, every person is unique, but between 2 to 5 total treatments are usually required.

What does it feel like?

Responses vary by patient and modality. With the Sciton ThermaScan™ laser, people report a warming of the skin or a rubber band snap sensation. The skin is chilled using state-of-the-art equipment so even these sensations need not be felt. No injections are needed.

During the Levulan/blue light treatment, people report some initial stinging, heat, and/or a pricking when the blue light is used. The sensations tend to peak after a few minutes.

How long will it take to heal?

Not long. There is virtually no downtime, especially when the laser is used. After a laser session, the treated area may appear reddened for up to an hour, but no wound is created so no healing time is required. Because Levulan/blue light is a more aggressive therapy, redness may diminish slowly over a few days. After either treatment you will be sensitive to the sun, especially with Levulan because it is photosensitive. You need to stay out of the sun for at least a few days. Wear sunscreen and avoid extremes of temperature and wind, and wear protective clothing. Avoid hot water and other irritants.

How long will it last?

Results of acne treatment last as long as 6 months, but this can be extended through the conscientious use of an appropriate skin care regimen.