Acne can affect both self-confidence and a beautiful face. Left untreated, it can cause permanent scars that serve as a reminder of past skin problems. At the Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN, our experienced dermatologists provide numerous advanced treatments for acne that are tailored to each patient’s unique skin care needs. To learn more, get in touch with our dermatology team by calling (615) 645-2314 or filling out our online contact form and schedule an informative consultation today.
DUSA BLU-U
The BLU-U Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator is a special blue light that can kill the bacteria in your skin’s sebaceous gland associated with acne and is also the light source regularly used when we utilize a special photosensitizer, known as Levulan®. The treatment takes about 15-20 minutes and is not painful. The BLU-U was cleared by the FDA in 2003 for the treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris, and can be used in cases of mild, moderate, and severe acne.
What is Photodynamic Therapy with BLU-U®?
Photodynamic Therapy is a special treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan® (5-aminolevulinic acid or ALA) activated with the correct wavelength of light. This is also known as ALA/PDT treatment. ALA/PDT treatment has the unique ability to minimize pores and reduce oil glands, effectively treating moderate to severe acne vulgaris, acne rosacea, sebaceous gland hyperplasia and even improve the appearance of some acne scars. Dr. Gold has pioneered this revolutionary treatment and helped conduct some of the early US research in PDT. He is considered a worldwide expert on the subject, asked to give lectures on a regular basis, and now has two textbooks on PDT.
How does the Levulan® PDT System work?
The first step is to have a Levulan® Kerastick® topical solution applied to the skin and the associated acne. This solution makes the acne more sensitive to light, which prepares the skin for the second step in the process. After leaving the topical solution on the skin for a period of time, usually from 30 minutes up to one hour, the therapy continues with the light treatment itself. The blue light treatment sessions lasts from 10-15 minutes. After the treatment some patients experience some transient redness and swelling, but most note no extended downtime as a result of having this therapy. Patients are encouraged to avoid the sun for 24-48 hours after ALA-PDT therapy. The staff of The Laser and Rejuvenation Center will be happy to discuss the use of Levulan PDT for your acne, if this therapy is warranted.
LightPod Neo
Aerolase offers the newest technology for laser therapy in treating active acne and acne scars. The LightPod Neo’s highly powerful yet gentle laser pulses superheat the sebaceous gland and its surroundings, where the p. acnes bacteria congregate. The treatment is fast and hygienic as nothing touches the skin except a beam of laser light. With the LightPod Neo laser, the practitioner can now effectively and safely treat both pediatric and adult acne patients, regardless of skin type (Caucasian, Asian, Indian or African, Hispanic etc.) and reduce the use of antibiotics.
Palomar Acleara: PPx
The Cynosure Palomar Acleara device, located at Advanced Aesthetics Medical Spa, uses photopneumatic energy (PPx) to successfully get rid of acne.
PPx treatments are not painful and are clinically proven in the treatment of acne. Interestingly, clinical studies, many of which were performed at the Tennessee Clinical Research Center, have demonstrated successes in treating both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. Dr. Gold has written extensively on the us of PPx in dermatology journals and lectures to colleagues around the world on the benefits of this system for treating acne.
The PPx system gently draws the area to be treated into the hand piece with a vacuum. This “pulling” motion brings all of the sebaceous glands closer to the surface of the skin. Light energy is then applied to and absorbed by the bacteria in the sebaceous gland, quickly and effectively destroying it without damaging the surrounding tissue. Pain is minimal and no topical anesthesia is needed for the PPx therapy.
PPx works quickly – most patients note an effect that can be seen within 2-3 days following a therapy. The treatments are virtually painless and most patients respond after a series of treatments – usually 2-4 given every 2-4 weeks.
Is treatment painful?
The procedure is tolerated well by most patients because the laser functions so quickly that only a mild sting is felt. It does not require pre-treatments with topical anesthetics or cooling gels, therefore treatments times are much less than laser or IPL hair removal procedures. In fact, the treatment head of the device is chilled prior to the application of the light which aids in making the treatments easy for our patients.
Are there any possible side effects?
Side effects are extremely rare. Blistering, soft scabbing or redness sometimes occurs at the treatment site but disappears quickly or within a few days. In certain cases, the skin could become slightly lighter or darker. Permanent pigmentary skin changes or scarring can occur, although very rare with this type of therapy.
What are the benefits?
- The FDA has approved this technology for inflammatory and noninflammatory acne
- You experience no downtime and can resume regular activities immediately
- Less pain and discomfort compared to other treatment methods
- Large areas can be treated quickly
- Works faster than most conventional therapies, often within 2-3 days
- Chance of scarring and pigmentation changes is minimal
Valeant Isolaz: PPx
Isolaz treatment is a unique acne therapy to help fight the root causes of acne and bring “CPR” rescue to acne sufferers. It cleanses the pores, purifies from the inside out, and replenishes the skin. No matter your age or skin type, Isolaz treatment is a revolutionary way to achieve deep pore cleansing and help you have a radiant, clear complexion. Isolaz uses a combination of suction and light to effectively clear pores and kill the bacteria that causes acne. Most patients experience a significant decrease in the number of acne spots, reduction in pore size appearance, and improvement in skin texture. Isolaz also helps to remove blackheads, oil, and debris.
Find Effective Acne Treatment Today
Whether you are dealing with acne that has affected your appearance for years or stubborn acne that has suddenly sprung up, the dermatology team at the Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN, can help you achieve clean, smoother, and clear skin through effective acne treatment. Learn more through an in-depth consultation by filling out our online contact form.
