Acne patients get the green light
Posted Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Recently, a lot of attention has been given to the idea of green wavelengths of light for use in treating mild to severe acne. A recent report in the Cosmetic Dermatology journal examines the use of phytodynamic therapy (PDT) using a 532 nm (nanometer) green light laser, which involves the application of a light-sensitive agent prior to treatment. (Green light has already been proven effective for treating spider veins and pigmented lesions.)
While questions remain about the optimal light source, PDT agent, number of treatments and other factors, green light is poised to present a viable acne treatment option. Initial findings show that green light has a positive effect with regulating bacterial and sebaceous gland activity, both of which lead to acne. However, more studies are necessary to set the specific treatment guidelines.
Tags: acne, laser, light, PDT, phytodynamic, pigment, spider veins, study, treatment