Acne is one of the most widespread skin concerns in the world. In the US, it affects up to 50 million people annually. So acne is a big headache (as if you needed our reminder), which can be even more frustrating to get rid of. Oh, and don’t even get us started on acne scars that love to stick around as long as they can! Sure, there are many conventional treatments available, which we’ll discuss a bit later, but acne is in no way easy to handle.
If you’ve been struggling with acne and acne scars, tried out different treatment methods, but nothing seems to work, it may be about time you hear about light therapy. This non-invasive, simple, and safe way has been gaining quite a recognition in the skincare world. Studies suggest that light therapy sessions can be beneficial for your skin and even help you with acne.
So let’s cut to the chase and see what all the hype is about!
Acne Causes
When it comes to acne treatment, you need to start determining the cause in order to apply the suitable solution. According to dermatologists, there are four leading causes of acne:
- Excess sebum (oil) production,
- Clogged hair follicles by dead skin cells and sebum;
- Bacteria;
Unfortunately, these four may occur at the same time as well.
Acne can cause whiteheads (closed plugged pores), blackheads (open clogged pores), papules (small red bumps), pustules (papules with pus at the tip), and nodules (bumps under the skin).
Be aware that acne can be triggered by hormonal changes, diet, certain medications, and stress as well. Therefore, it takes quite a research to identify the root cause of acne, making the treatment lengthy and exhausting.
Conventional Acne Treatments & Medications
Retinoids – Vitamin A derivatives such as retinoic acids and tretinoinare very effective in acne cases. They can be found in topical creams, gels, and serums. Retinoids work by increasing the skin cell turnover – old, affected cells die more rapidly, and new, healthy cells take their place. However, not everyone can tolerateretinoids as they increase sun sensitivity and may irritate the skin.
Antibiotics – They work best when you’re dealing with bacterial acne. Antibiotics kill the bacteria on the skin and prevent the further spread of the breakouts. Dermatologists recommend using benzoyl peroxide simultaneously to ensure that you won’t build resistance to antibiotics.
Azelaic acid – Due to its antibacterial properties, azelaic acid can help with acne patients if used in high concentrations. It helps reduce inflammation and redness, as well as get rid of the bacteria. What’s more, azelaic acid decreases the production of keratin that is known for triggering acne.
Salicylic acid – Also known as beta hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid works by reaching deep down to the clogged pores and dissolving excess sebum. However, before your skin gets used to salicylic acid, you may experience irritation and dryness.
Treating Acne and Acne Scars With Light Therapy
The power of light was discovered a while ago, but scientists keep on finding the amazing properties of various types of lights. The most interesting wavelengths of light for acne patients are red, infrared, and blue ones which are widely used in light therapy.
Light therapy is a process of exposing one’s skin to LED panels that emit certain light waves. Red and infrared lights are known for penetrating the skin deeply and optimizing cellular functions. As a result, your cells get more ATP, which is essential for carrying out every single process that happens on the cellular level and beyond. What’s more, due to red and infrared light exposure, the cell turnover rate increases, leading to a healthier complexion.
As for blue light, it has strong antimicrobial properties, which help get rid of acne-causing bacteria.
Light therapy is effective in the case of acne scars as well. It promotes collagen and elastin production. These proteins make up the skin tissue, therefore, play an important role in alleviating scarring. Moreover, light therapy (especially red light therapy) regulates blood circulation and helps form new blood vessels. As a result, all the essential elements get efficiently delivered to your skin, helping with acne and acne scars.
Light Therapy by nuYOU LED
Given that light therapy is free of side effects and complications, you can do it at home, without a specialist’s supervision. Having an in-home red light therapy device is extremely convenient – you’ll be able to have a session whenever and wherever it’s the most suitable for you!
nuYOU LED offers a great selection of light therapy devices, be it portable, targeted, or full-body panels. Their light treatment devices are FDA-approved, as well as tried, tested, and loved by those who conquered acne with them. So take advantage of their e-shop and find yourself a fantastic acne treatment you’ve been looking for!
Article Submitted By Community Writer
