Treatment Options
Topical Preparations |
Oral Medications |
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Acne Vulgaris – Physical Treatments
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Class: Laser
Clinical Indications:
- Acne vulgaris: IPL can be used to reduce the redness associated with acne lesions and scarring. It is best utilized when the active acne lesions have resolved.
- Rosacea: IPL is the most effective treatment for reducing redness associated with redness.
Special Notes: The number of treatments needed to clear or improve the condition of acne rosacea differs from patient to patient, depending on the severity and extent of the problem. It is encouraged for you to see the effect of one treatment, and book subsequent treatments accordingly. Although results may last for many months to years, recurrence of the disorder is possible due to genetics and environmental factors such as sun exposure.
Potential Risks and Complications: Redness and mild swelling immediately after the procedure is expected, and in most cases necessary, to achieve excellent results. Rarely, there may be bruising or blister formation at treated sites. Brown spots on the skin may appear darker for up to two weeks following treatment.
Mechanism of Action: IPL technology is commonly employed to treat, and reduce the redness associated with acne and rosacea. For dilated blood vessels, as seen in patients with rosacea, the light energy with high absorption by hemoglobin and oxyhemaglobin reached the dermal capillary bed and selectively destroys the abnormal vessels. The operator of the machine controls all aspects of the light pulse, including wavelength, energy level, pulse duration, pulse pattern, and delay time between pulses. This allows for precise control of light energy, which is utilized for customization for skin type, procedure progress, and other variables. All controls are computer driven, and the system houses a patient database that automatically records the parameters of the treatment and the treatment history for each patient.





