Blue Light for Acne in North Adams

A form of phototherapy, blue light treatments are FDA-approved for acne vulgaris that is moderate or has not responded to other therapies. Blue light therapy can be carried out in a dermatologist’s office.

Blue light kills the acne-causing bacteria known as Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), which can cause inflammation. C. acnes is sensitive to blue light. Using the blue light eliminates the bacteria found in the oil glands in the skin. The added presence of infrared light (heat) in the device causes the oil glands to shrink in size. The result is less oil in the skin and less bacteria, leading to the resolution of acne in the treated areas.

Blue Light Therapy Benefits

Blue light therapy is a safe and effective alternate treatment for resistant acne or for those who prefer to avoid oral medications. The blue light wavelength works by selectively targeting and destroying Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria that are integral to acne lesion formation. Treatments are typically performed two to three times a week for six to eight weeks and are very well tolerated.

Blue light therapy can also be augmented with a topical treatment of liquid aminolevulinic acid (ALA) prior to the light exposure. This is called photodynamic therapy (PDT) and it boosts the efficacy of the treatment, helps to shrink pores, and decreases oil production. ALA blue light treatments are scheduled every two weeks for a total of three treatments. Although they are more effective they do require more down time. Check with Dr. Cavalli to see which treatment would be best for you. As with any laser or light-based therapy, patients must not be taking any photosensitizing medication such as tetracycline antibiotics, herbal remedies or dietary supplements at the time of the procedure.