Laser Acne Treatment

Laser acne treatment uses specific wavelengths of visible and infrared light to fight acne and blemishes.

Acne scarring is a common complication of acne and can lead to negative self-image, low self-esteem and depression.

what is laser acne treatment ?

Laser acne treatments work by harnessing the power of light energy to elicit change within the skin. LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification for Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The 3 main targets (chromophores) within the skin where lasers can exert their effects include melanin, haemoglobin and water. By using different wavelengths of visible and infrared light, we can target these chromophores and thereby able to treat conditions that are affected by melanin (e.g. hyperpigmentation), haemoglobin (e.g. redness) and water (collagen stimulation and production).

Benefits of laser acne treatment

Active inflammatory Acne 

Laser therapy for active acne involves the use of specific wavelengths of light to target and reduce the bacteria, inflammation, and sebum production associated with acne lesions. There are different types of laser treatments for acne, including blue light therapy, pulsed dye laser (PDL), and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) refers to darkened spots or patches that develop on the skin as a result of inflammation or injury, such as acne, insect bites, or wounds. Laser therapy can be an effective treatment option for reducing the appearance of PIH by targeting and breaking down the excess melanin (pigment) in the affected areas. Common lasers include Picosecond and Q-Switched laser systems.

post inflammatory erythema
Red acne scars

Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) refers to red or pink discoloration of the skin that occurs as a result of inflammation or injury, such as acne, rosacea, or trauma. Laser therapy can be an effective treatment option for clearing post-inflammatory erythema by targeting the underlying blood vessels responsible for the redness. Vascular lasers such as ADVATx laser and other pulsed dye laser systems are effective.

acne scars treatment
Atrophic acne scars

Laser resurfacing is a popular treatment for acne scars, aiming to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars, and stimulate collagen production for smoother, more even skin.

Various types of lasers can be used for acne scar resurfacing, including ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers, such as fractional CO2 lasers and erbium lasers, remove thin layers of skin to promote collagen remodeling and scar improvement. Non-ablative lasers, such as fractional non-ablative lasers and pulsed dye lasers, deliver laser energy without damaging the outer layer of skin, making them suitable for milder acne scars and shorter recovery times.

Do's and Don't's

acne free skin

Treatments

advatx laser treatment

ADVATx Laser

World’s only sold state laser that emits 2 wavelengths of light; 589nm and 1319nm to target underlying inflammation of active acne, targets sebaceous gland to reduce sebum production and remodels skin to improve acne scarring. 

pico laser acne scars treatment
Pico Laser

Picosecond lasers target pigments by a photomechanical effect, limiting thermal energy to the surrounding normal skin. Pico lasers are particularly useful and safer in patients with darker skin tone as it specifically targets melanin. In the fractional mode, the laser beam can be split into smaller beamlets, allowing it to penetrate the inner layers of the skin to stimulate healing, collagen production and skin remodelling. 

carbon peel laser treatment Singapore

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon laser peel, also known as the “China Doll Peel” or “Holloywood Peel,” is a non-invasive laser treatment primarily used to improve the appearance of acne-prone skin. carbon laser peel treatments offer a multifaceted approach to treating acne by exfoliating the skin, regulating oil production, reducing bacteria, stimulating collagen production, and improving skin tone and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Laser acne treatment is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and experienced professional. However, there may be some risks and side effects, such as redness, swelling, and temporary discomfort, which your provider will discuss with you before the procedure.

Laser acne treatment may be suitable for individuals with mild to moderate acne who have not responded well to topical treatments or oral medications. It may also be an option for those who prefer non-invasive or alternative acne treatments.

You may not be able to proceed with the laser treatment if you have the following: 

  • Active infections.
  • Abnormal/suspicious moles.
  • Inflammatory/infective skin conditions.
  • Tattoos in the treatment area
  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding.
  • Bleeding disorders.
  • History of seizures triggered by light.
  • Sun exposure four weeks before and during the course of your vascular laser treatment.

The number of laser acne treatment sessions needed can vary depending on the severity of the acne, the type of laser used, and individual response to treatment. Typically, multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are recommended for optimal results.

Downtime after laser acne treatment can vary depending on the type of laser used and individual skin sensitivity. Some people may experience redness, swelling, or mild discomfort immediately after the procedure, which usually resolves within a few days to a week.

The results of laser acne treatment may be long-lasting, but they are not always permanent. To maintain results, ongoing skincare maintenance and occasional follow-up treatments may be necessary.

Yes, laser acne treatment can be combined with other acne treatments, such as topical medications, oral medications, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion, to enhance results and address multiple aspects of acne.

schedule a consultation for Laser Acne treatment in singapore

We treat a wide range of acne and acne scars at both our clinics in Woodlands and Kovan. With over 15 years of clinical experience and a special interest in acne management, Dr. Ng makes it his mission to match each patient to the most effective acne treatment according to your lifestyle, skin condition and budget. Schedule a consultation with us today, so you can find out more.

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Get in touch with us with any questions, pricing, or bookings.

Or give us a call at +65 6769 6007 | WhatsApp us +65 9855 3022

Related Information:
References:
  1. Seaton E, Charakida A, Mouser P.  et al.  Pulsed-dye laser treatment for inflammatory acne vulgaris: randomised controlled trial.  Lancet.2003;362:1347-1352.
  2. Patel N, Clement M. Selective nonablative treatment of acne scarring with 585nm flashpump pulsed dye laser.  Dermatol Surg.2002;28:942-945.
  3. Kim S, Cho KH. Treatment of procedure-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation using 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with low fluence in Asian patients: report of five cases. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2010 Dec. 9(4):302-6. 
  4.  Cho SB, Park SJ, Kim JS, Kim MJ, Bu TS. Treatment of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation using 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with low fluence: report of three cases. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2009;23:1026–7.
  5. Jae Yoon Jung et al.Prospective randomized controlled clinical and histopathological study of acne vulgaris treated with dual mode of quasi-long pulse and Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser assisted with a topically applied carbon suspension. Journal of American Academy of Dermatology. 2012: 66(4):626-633
  6. Li MK, Liu C, Hsu JT. The use of lasers and light devices in acne management: an update. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2021 Nov;22:785-800.