Acne is a very common problem, affecting over 95% of the population at some time in their life. Laser acne treatments can be added to or given as an alternative to medications and antibiotics for acne control.

What causes acne?
Acne is caused when the pores of the skin become clogged, because oil and skin cells accumulate faster than they can exit. The clog causes the hair follicle to bulge, and the area may appear dark. Dead skin cells and bacteria normally found on the surface of the skin can enter the skin and form small, infected areas.

Why use a laser treatment for acne?
Inflammatory acne often requires the use of oral antibiotics.

Laser treatment can usually lead to a lessening of the amount of other treatments, and improve not only the inflamed acne, but also the appearance of some acne scars.

How does the laser treatment work?
The laser uses a patented wavelength of laser light that pulsates through the layers of skin to the sebaceous gland. The laser thermally alters the reactors in the gland, reducing oil and bacteria.

Does it hurt?
No. Some patients report mild discomfort associated with some of the laser pulses. The feeling has been described as a pinprick for a fraction of a second. A cooling plate on the hand piece helps to diminish this discomfort.

Is the treatment safe?
Yes. There are very few risks and/or side effects associated with the treatment.

How long will it take?
The procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to a half-hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.

How many treatments will I need?
You may require multiple treatments to see desired results. You should notice a gradual reduction in the number and severity of acne lesions in three weeks following your first treatment. Typically you will see a 20% reduction in the number of acne lesions per treatment.

What should I expect after treatment?
There is virtually no downtime, and you may resume moderate activity immediately. Side effects are uncommon and usually minimal.