Laser Acne Treatment Side Effects: What to Expect

Acne scars affect 95% of people with acne. Laser treatment can minimize these scars’ appearance. Let’s explore the side effects, risks, and aftercare of this procedure.

Laser treatment targets light on skin’s top layers. It breaks up scar tissue and stimulates new cell growth. This process can reduce scar visibility and ease associated pain.

Ablative laser treatments cost about $2,000 out-of-pocket. Non-ablative treatments are around $1,100. Side effects may include swelling, redness, and site pain.

Persistent redness can last up to 10 days¹. Risks include hyperpigmentation and infection¹. Results typically show within 7 to 10 days after treatment¹.

To minimize complications, make lifestyle changes before treatment. Avoid blood-thinning supplements and aspirin for two weeks. Stop smoking for at least two weeks. Don’t use retinol products for two weeks prior.

Key Takeaways

• Laser treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars and associated pain.
• Common laser acne treatment side effects include swelling, redness, and pain at the treatment site.
• Laser acne risks include potential complications such as hyperpigmentation and infection.
• Results typically become visible within 7 to 10 days after the treatment.
• Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain medications and products, may be necessary before treatment to minimize laser acne complications.

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Understanding Laser Acne Treatment

Laser acne treatment targets excess oil, inflammation, and bacteria to provide long-lasting results. It offers a compelling solution for stubborn acne. Multiple treatments over several sessions may be needed for optimal outcomes².

How Laser Acne Treatment Works

Laser therapy uses focused light energy to shrink sebaceous glands and reduce inflammation. This process minimizes acne breakouts effectively. The laser’s heat also destroys acne-causing bacteria, promoting clearer skin.

AviClear™ laser is a highly effective treatment for acne. It operates at 1726 nm wavelength and is safe for all skin types³. Some patients see up to 70% clearance after 8-10 sessions of phototherapy³.

Types of Lasers Used for Acne Treatment

Various lasers are used in acne treatment, each with unique benefits. Common types include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers
• Pulsed-dye lasers
• Erbium YAG lasers
• Diode lasers

CO2, pulsed-dye, and diode lasers effectively target specific causes of breakouts². Light therapies, like blue and red light devices, also treat acne successfully.

Forever Clear BroadBand Light™ BBL therapy uses both red and blue light. This combination addresses various acne concerns³. Results may vary, but many find laser treatments offer lasting improvement.

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Common Side Effects of Laser Acne Treatment

Laser acne treatment can cause mild, temporary side effects. These include laser acne redness, swelling, pain, and skin peeling. It’s crucial to know about these before getting treatment.

Redness and Swelling

Redness and swelling are common after laser acne treatment. They usually go away within a few hours to days⁴. The treated skin may feel warm and look inflamed.

Sometimes, redness can last for months, especially with ablative laser treatments⁵. This is more likely to happen with stronger treatments.

Pain and Discomfort

During treatment, you might feel a stinging or burning sensation⁴. This pain usually stops within an hour or two after the procedure.

Your skin may feel itchy or sensitive for a few days. This is normal during the laser acne recovery process.

Skin Peeling and Flaking

As your skin heals, it’s normal to see peeling and flaking. This means your skin is shedding damaged layers to reveal healthier skin underneath.

Peeling can last 3 to 10 days⁵. During this time, redness from ablative lasers will start to fade.

These side effects are temporary and part of healing. Follow your doctor’s advice to minimize discomfort and promote smooth recovery.

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What Are the Side Effects of Laser Acne Treatment?

Laser acne treatment can reduce acne scars effectively. However, it’s crucial to know about potential side effects. Ablative procedures may cause more issues than non-ablative ones⁶.

Most side effects can be managed with proper care. Following your provider’s instructions carefully helps minimize risks.

Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation

Skin pigmentation changes are common side effects. Hyperpigmentation darkens the skin, while hypopigmentation lightens it. These effects are more likely in people with brown or Black skin⁷.

Discoloration from laser treatment can last a long time. It may not always be permanent. Follow pre-care and post-care instructions to reduce these risks.

Scarring and Infection

Scarring is rare but more likely with ablative laser resurfacing⁶. Scars may recur, requiring additional treatments⁷. Infection is another potential side effect.

Watch for signs of infection like pus, swelling, or fever. Contact your provider immediately if you notice these symptoms⁶.

Acne Flare-ups

Thick creams and bandages after treatment can worsen acne. They may cause tiny white bumps (milia) to form temporarily. Follow your provider’s post-treatment skincare advice carefully.

Avoid heavy creams or makeup that could clog pores. This helps reduce the risk of acne flare-ups.

Remember, most side effects are temporary and manageable with proper care. Don’t let fear stop you from achieving clearer skin. Follow your provider’s guidance to minimize risks and enjoy the benefits.

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Recovery and Aftercare

Proper recovery and aftercare are vital after laser acne treatment. These treatments can reduce stubborn acne scars and pigmentation issues. The recovery process requires patience to promote healing and prevent complications.

Proper Skincare Routine

After treatment, adopt a gentle skincare routine. Most people experience redness, swelling, or stinging. To soothe your skin, follow these steps:

• Cleanse your face with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser twice a day.
• Apply a calming, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
• Avoid using harsh exfoliants, scrubs, or active ingredients like retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids until your skin has fully healed.
• Incorporate more Vitamin C into your diet, ensure proper sleep, and engage in regular exercise to help boost collagen production in the body⁸.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is crucial during recovery. Your skin will be more sensitive to UV damage. This can lead to hyperpigmentation or prolonged redness.

1. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when indoors.
2. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
3. Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, when exposed to direct sunlight.
4. Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure for at least 6 to 8 weeks after your treatment.

Apply sunscreen several times a day for up to a month after treatment⁸. This ensures proper healing.

Follow-up Treatments

Laser acne treatment often requires multiple sessions. The number of treatments needed varies based on scar severity and individual response. CO2 laser recovery can take up to two weeks⁹.

Erbium laser recovery typically requires one full week⁹. Your dermatologist will create a custom treatment plan for you.

Attend all follow-up appointments. Communicate any concerns or questions you have during your recovery journey.

Patience is key in laser acne aftercare. Trust your skincare team and stick to your post-treatment care. Your efforts will lead to clearer, smoother skin.

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Conclusion

Laser acne treatment can effectively improve acne scars. However, it’s important to understand potential side effects before the procedure. Common issues include redness, swelling, and skin peeling¹⁰.

More serious risks may involve changes in skin pigmentation or scarring. One study showed 86.6% of patients had positive results, with 26.6% experiencing excellent outcomes¹¹.

Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal healing and results. This includes following a skincare routine and using sun protection. Recovery is usually quick, with little to no downtime¹².

Patients with darker skin may have a higher risk of pigmentation changes. Choosing a qualified dermatologist is essential for tailoring treatment to your needs. Taking precautions can help achieve long-lasting improvements while minimizing complications.

Laser treatment can offer permanent improvements to acne scars. Discuss risks and benefits with your dermatologist before proceeding. With proper care, this treatment can boost confidence and achieve smoother skin.

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Source Links

1. Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: What to Expect, Cost, and More – https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/laser-treatment-for-acne-scars
2. Acne Treatment, Laser Condition, Treatments and Pictures for – https://skinsight.com/skin-conditions/laser-acne-treatment/
3. The Best Laser and Light Treatments for Your Acne – https://plymouthmeetingdermatology.com/best-laser-treatment-acne/
4. What Are the Side Effects of Laser Acne Treatment? – https://everestmedicalspa.com/med-spa-blog/what-are-the-side-effects-of-laser-acne-treatment
5. Laser Skin Resurfacing: Benefits, Side Effects, and Average Cost – https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-skin-resurfacing
6. 5 Things You Should Know About Removing Acne Scars With Laser – https://www.denverfacialplastics.com/blog/removing-acne-scars-with-laser-acne-scars/
7. Laser treatment for acne scars: How many sessions does it take? – Stratum Clinics – https://www.stratumclinics.com/laser-treatment-for-acne-scars-how-many-sessions-does-it-take/
8. How to Care for Your Skin After Laser Treatments – CT Facial Plastic Surgery – https://www.ctfacialplasticsurgery.com/blog/how-to-care-for-your-skin-after-laser-treatments/
9. Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/laser-skin-resurfacing/recovery
10. Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing Complications – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3580977/
11. Treatment of Post-acne Scarring with Long-pulsed and Q-switched 1,064nm Nd:YAG Laser | JCAD | The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology – https://jcadonline.com/post-acne-scarring-lasers/
12. Vbeam Laser Recovery Guide [Do’s & Don’ts To Maximize Recovery] – https://bhskin.com/blog/vbeam-laser-recovery/