How does the treatment work?
Active Acne - the lasers work in two ways:
1. The laser light kills the acne bacteria that cause the infection leading to spots
2. The laser light gently heats up the skin around the spots, producing collagen that boosts the healing process causing the spots to disappear
Acne Scarring - the lasers work in 2 ways:
1. Long pulsed Nd:YAG and intense pulsed light (IPL) - laser light heats up the lower layers of the skin producing collagen that stimulates a healing response. This acts as a new foundation for the skin, reducing scarring and improving skin tone.
2. Fractional pixel laser ablates or vapourises tiny columns of cells. The healthy tissue around it then contracts to close these gaps and make scars smaller and less obvious.
What are the alternatives?
Traditional treatment for active acne included topical antibiotics and benzyl peroxide, oral antibiotics and more recently, topical and oral retinoids.
How many treatments are needed?
A series of 2 to 4 treatments is recommended at monthly intervals. Following this, it is envisaged that further 'top up' treatments may be required at 6 monthly intervals.
What are the costs likely to be?
The initial consultation is offered free of charge with no obligation to undergo treatment. Costs vary depending on the area treated. Prices start from £100 per session.
Are there any side-effects?
Redness and irritation of the treated area may occur (like sunburn). There is also a small risk of pigment change following treatment. A small minority of patients develop bruising and blistering. This settles within a few days.
Can all areas of the body be treated?
All areas of the body can be treated.
Is laser treatment safe?
There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that laser treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of skin cancer.
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