Blue light acne treatment

Introduction

Blue light acne treatment is not ainvader procedure that uses light in the blue wavelength range of 405-420 nm to kill Propionobacterium acnes or P. acnes bacteria on the skin photodynamic The therapy is FDA approved for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris or acne vulgaris that has not responded to other acne therapies.

How does it work?

The bacteria in acne release porphyrins. These are natural substances in the body, which arise during the synthesis of heme in red blood cells. When porphyrins absorb light of certain wavelengths, free radicals Damage occurs and this destroys bacteria. Blue light acne treatment uses a high intensity, narrow band blue light source that is easily absorbed by porphyrins released by acne causing bacteria.

Former light therapies used UV light (usually UVB), which can damage the skin. Therefore, UV light is no longer used to treat acne and the blue light devices currently available for use do not contain ultraviolet (UV) light.

Blue light acne treatment can be used alone or in conjunction with a photosensitizing agent such as current aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride (ALA) solution (Levulan® and Kerastick®). Pretreatment with the photosensitizer appears to offer an additional reduction in injuries and pustules but it will cause a crust reaction for a few days.

What does the procedure consist of?

Blue light acne treatment is administered through a blue light delivery system. The procedure simply involves a patient sitting in front of a blue light lamp for approximately 15 minutes. Generally 2 sessions per week over a 4 week period is all that is required.

ALA pretreatment requires topical application of ALA 30 minutes before sitting in front of the blue light lamp for approximately 8 minutes. Treatments are generally spaced at 2-week intervals. The number of treatments depends on the severity of the acne and the improvements observed.

Blue light acne treatment is available in a dermatologist and the procedure carried out in their rooms. Although blue light delivery systems can be purchased and self-administered at home, a dermatologist must supervise their use.

How effective is it?

Several small studies have shown that blue light acne treatment appears to improve acne vulgaris with a reduction in inflammation and the number of pustules and papules in some individuals In one study, nodulocystic acne lesions worsened when treated with blue light.

More large, controlled studies are needed to demonstrate its effectiveness and long-term effects. Other acne treatments may be more appropriate in the individual case.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are generally minor and include:

• Swelling of the treated areas and dryness.
• Temporary pigment changes