Blue Light for Acne Treatment

Satin soft skin (Credit: Down Town Pictures)

P. acnes, which are the bacteria responsible for causing acne inflammation, pumps out tiny molecules called porphyrins. When porphyrin is exposed to certain wavelengths of blue light, they produce free radicals that kill the bacteria which causes inflammatory acne.

Blue light has been successful in 85% of patients although results vary by individual. Results should be seen within the first 2 weeks of consistent treatment and after 4 weeks, most people notice about a 60% reduction in visible acne. After 12 weeks, those participating in the research experienced clearing of about 76%.

Pre-Treatment: Use a proper fixture and set your light(s) up in a safe place. Make sure to wash your face or affected area and allow it to dry thoroughly. Sit at a comfortable distance (2-3 feet) from the bulb.

Treatment: Do not sit closer than 2 feet from the bulb. In order to clear the acne as fast as possible, begin your treatment by using the blue light for 15 minutes daily. The purpose of the red light is to heal and rejuvenate the skin and is beneficial to promote healthy skin as well. Use the red light in the same manner as the blue.

When treating the face, be sure to turn your head occasionally to allow even distribution of the light. It is important to wear the provided eye shields during treatment. After the acne is cleared, decrease your treatments to 15 minutes with the blue light every other day. Continue in that manner until you find the right number of weekly sessions necessary to stay ahead of your breakouts.