Nancy asks…I’m bothered by adult acne and am thinking of getting laser treatment. Any thoughts?
The Beauty Brains respond:
To give you an expert’s opinion we checked with occasional contributor Dr. Michele Koo, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon practicing in St. Louis, Missouri. Here’s what Dr. Koo has to say.
“The N Lite Laser has been commonly used to improve fine wrinkles. It achieves this by wounding the skin in a NON ABLATIVE (not completely removing the superficial layer of skin) manner. As a result this stimulates the growth factors to facilitate new collagen growth (Collagen is vital for strengthening blood vessels and giving skin its elasticity and strength). The N Lite Laser has also been used to treat acne and acne scars. Lasers work by ablating color targets such as red, yellow, yellow-green (amber) in the skin. The wavelength of the N Lite Laser is 585nm or if it is a more flexible laser such as the RegenLite laser it also has the capacity to switch to a 532nm wavelength. The idea is to treat acne scars or fine wrinkles and to remove the bacteria causing Acne Vulgaris.
However, the results have been marginal and not noticeable for fine wrinkle reduction. Similarly in treating acne, the results have been somewhat temporary and also disappointing to the millions who are constantly seeking out a solution to their (or their children’s) acne troubles.
Best Recommendation/Take Home Message: there are more effective chemical peels, topical medication for the treatment of fine wrinkles and acne that is less costly. Do your research and be sure you are working with a board certified physician!”