Zits, pimples, blemishes, pustules, whiteheads, blackheads, bumps. We call it acne, a build up of oil in the skin follicles causing an infection known as P. Acnes. But no matter what you want to call it, you get it, and we spend the majority of our time at ZENMED helping people find a solution to get rid of it for the long term.
One thing we get asked about a lot is a permanent cure. In fact, the demand to find a permanent “cure” has led to some super pricey options on the market today, and the current trending ‘cure’ is Laser Acne Removal. But how much do we really know about this ‘low risk’ procedure?
What is Laser Acne Removal?
Mostly used as a short-term treatment for acne, laser acne removal is said to reveal a ‘radiant complexion’ by reversing the signs of aging on our face. By transmitting a beam of light through a smooth glass wand placed onto the surface of the skin, waves emitted from the laser system absorb excess surface oil and simultaneously destroy bacteria. This procedure is recommended to be done 2-6 times, 2-3 weeks apart, and is said to reduce acne by up to 64%. A decent number for sure, but for $3,000-$6,000 for a full-face resurfacing I would want that percentage to be a bit higher.
What Are The Side Effects?
There are not a great number of side effects that exist for this procedure, but those that do are important to consider before undergoing laser acne removal, if the cost hasn’t deterred you.
-Some laser treatments, even after being approved for public use, have now been banned due to reports of painful burns by patients.
-Thermal damage to skin during procedure often results in long-term dryness, hyper-pigmentation, and scarring.
-The laser used may result in immediate redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain to the treated areas.
-And, if cost didn’t get you before, take into consideration that laser acne removal is not covered by insurance.
About blue light treatments and other DIY laser treatments
Blue light treatments seem to be a common interest for many people recently. These treatments are a DIY/at-home treatment that cost upwards of $250 and are quite limited in their results.
Unfortunately, blue light results are often temporary (because you are only treating the surface problem, not the cause) and you will likely have to continually use acne medication or other non-laser treatments. On average people need 1-2 treatments per week and only see a 30%-60% clearing after a series of treatments. On that note, the product claims to be safe for use “as many months/years as you want”, but here is a question for you: Why get a product that even has the option of many years rather then using products that guarantee more permanent results? I don’t know about you, but I do not want my acne to last for months, and especially not years. Also, with cartridges that need replacing, the costs of this product keeps adding up!
Another unfortunate fact is that blue light therapy cannot be used on skin suffering from rosacea, moles, warts, or any condition other then blemishes and acne.
That limits the target, I would imagine, since rosacea is one of the most common skin conditions and often accompanies acne.
Some side effects of blue light therapy are redness and dryness to treated areas.
Important Testimonial
I found this testimonial pretty easily online (http://www.realself.com/Pixel-laser/reviews) and thought it did a good job of summing up what can go wrong:
Pros: None
Cons: Hyperpigmentation
Bottom line I have East Asian skin, and got the Smooth Beam laser treatment done 8 months ago to help with my mild acne scarring. The procedure was recommended by a
dermatologist and performed by a medical nurse who explained the procedure every step of the way. She seemed nice and experienced. I followed aftercare instructions and stayed away from the sun.
I did a bit of research and it seemed like a low risk procedure to do at the time. Now I am left with stripes of hyperpigmentation through the sides of my cheeks.
In the past 8 months I have spent a lot of money trying to correct this problem with peels, microdermabrasion, Retinol, green light photo-rejuvination therapy, kojic acid, hydroquinone, and lumixyl. Some of them have helped to slightly lighten the dark lines, but I am still left with the hyperpigmentation.
I originally got this procedure done because I wanted to wear less makeup, and now I have to wear more make up and cover the sides of my face with my hair. I feel extremely
self-conscious, and cannot just jump into the pool during vacations anymore. I hide under the shade, and have to stay away from the sun at all times, or the lines will get even darker.
Please please do not get lasers done on your face. It is just not worth the risk. If I can turn back the clock, I would never put myself in such a situation again. It is much better to be patient and take your time with less invasive methods.
Even if the risks are low, it only takes one bad result to change your life forever. I did this to myself, and I have to live with it now.”
Alternate Solution
ZENMED offers a variety of products for every skin type and got its superior reputation from its success in acne control. We develop products for every stage of the acne journey and make it our mission to use ingredients that are safe for both you and the environment. With a clear conscience and clear skin it is easy to see why ZENMED is top of its class in the chemical-free skincare industry.
If you have active-acne and are looking for a safe, chemical-free solution, we recommend our Derma Cleanse system. This system is designed to clear your skin and prevent the chances of scarring and long term damage. (http://ca.zenmed.com/skincare/acne/).
If you have your acne under control but still get the occasional break out we recommend our Daily Care line for either oily or dry skin (http://ca.zenmed.com/dailycare/).
ZENMED® continues to be at the forefront of developing Doctor-formulated skincare targeted towards persistently troubled skin. Let us save your skin and your money with
our gentle, 100% vegan, effective products. We recommend you avoid any laser acne removal until you have given everything else a try; and after using ZENMED, you won’t
even have to consider it.