Light pulses are delivered through the skin's surface, targeting an organic compound generated by the Propionibacterium acnes (p. acne) bacteria called porphyrin. These porphyrins are photosensitive and when targeted by light, generate singlet oxygen, which kill the p. acne bacteria that cause inflammation.

What treatments for acne are available at Doctors of California Laser and Cosmetic Center?

We strongly urge patients to exhaust conservative methods of acne treatment including proper cleansing, exfoliation, benzoyl peroxide, retinoic or salicylic acid topicals, as prescribed by their physicians, before resorting to photodynamic therapy, laser or photoactivated Levulan™ (Levulinic acid).

Acne occurs for a variety of reasons including an inability of skin cells to shed properly, causing the pores to plug, forcing the oil and bacteria that would naturally escape to be trapped inside. As the oil and bacteria accumulates, the skin becomes inflamed and swells outward forming the familiar whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Acne is seen in many age groups, but is most common in teens and frequently appears on the face, neck, shoulders, back, and chest.

What systems treat acne?

Doctors of California Laser and Cosmetic Center offers numerous effective acne treatments. After exhausting conservative treatments we offer the Blu-U™ photodynamic treatment. Blu-U is a totally non-invasive treatment.

BLU-U ACNE LIGHT TREATMENT

This light is comparable to other acne light treatments such as the Clearlight™ and the Omni-Lux™, and equally effective. Patients simply sit comfortably in a chair while the light is applied to the affected area; they can even listen to music while being treated.

Patients simply sit comfortably in a chair while the light is applied to the affected area; they can even listen to music while being treated (iPods are encouraged.)

Once the treatment session is over, patients can immediately return to their daily routine. This means no downtime or inconvenience, especially important factors for active teens and young adults.

Acne is estimated to affect more than 80% of the world’s population at some time during their life. In the U.S., billions of dollars are spent on anti-acne medications and treatments, but many oral acne treatments (Accutane® and other antibiotics) are known to have serious side effects. Blu-U acne light therapy is effective, painless, and has no known side effects.

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