Acne - Targeting Multiple Causes

Acne is caused by several interacting factors*

Most  treatments for acne target blockages in the skin’s pores. They also work to kill the bacteria contributing to inflammation.  However the Spectra laser not only treats these two contributing factors, but also addresses the issue of excessive sebum secretion by reducing the activity level of the sebaceous glands.

Sebum is a natural oil produced by your skin. It contributes to acne outbreaks as it causes dirt and dead skin cells to stick together and clog pores. Also the moisture of the sebum provides an ideal environment for bacterial colonies, which eventually lead to inflammation as the body tries to eliminate these foreign invaders.

What is the Spectra Laser

The Spectra laser uses a lab derived Nd:YAG crystal medium to produce a wavelength of 1064nm. Longer wavelengths are able to reach deeper layers beneath the skin’s surface.

Nd:YAG lasers have demonstrated the ability to actually reduce the activity level of sebaceous glands. This capability is especially useful for controlling  acne in a more well rounded fashion, especially since this condition is caused by multiple factors working together.

How Does the Spectra Peel Work As An Acne Laser Treatment?

  1. As a preliminary step, a topical photo enhancing carbon based lotion is applied to the skin’s surface.  The lotion not only covers the skin, but also penetrates the pores as well.
  2. During the actual procedure, the Spectra beam is applied using the long pulse mode. The laser modulates deeper layers of the skin to induce the turnover of new cells and improve the overall texture and tone. Also it decreases the activity level of the sebaceous glands. In this process, bacterial cell bodies are killed and acne inflammation is reduced.
  3. As the third step in the procedure, the laser is applied in short pulses using the Q-switch mode. This causes the topical photo enhancer to peel and strip away blockages in the skin pores that have contributed to the acne.

The Spectra laser not only works within these deeper layers, but also affects the epidermis.  When the laser comes in contact with the carbon in the lotion, it causes tiny explosions within the pores and on the skin’s surface.

Although there are many topical products available, acne laser treatments are gaining more prominence because lasers are able to affect the sebaceous glands as well as the size of the skin pores.

How Many Spectra Treatments Are Needed To Clear Acne Issues

In most cases, several sessions will be needed. After the first session, the pimples will be much smaller in appearance due to the blockages being cleared.

Subsequent laser sessions will need to be scheduled 2-3 weeks apart.  These additional treatments will work to decrease the number of acne lesions. Usually patients notice a significant difference after the third or fourth session.

For many people the underlying cause of their acne problem is due to hormonal changes, which laser treatments cannot change. This is why maintenance treatments will be required every three months.

How Does Spectra Compare To Other Treatments

The acne peel performed by the Spectra laser offers safer results that are far more predictable and consistent, compared to oral medication and topical treatments. It is considered to be pain free as well. Furthermore, there is no downtime involved.

Where Is the Spectra Acne Peel Offered in Los Angeles

As a Los Angeles acne treatment, the Spectra laser is available Fine Touch Dermatology.