Blue Light Acne Treatments

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What is blue light therapy?

At our office we have both ClearLight® and BLU-U® blue light therapy systems. Both use high-intensity, narrow-band blue light to treat mild to moderate acne. It is FDA-approved, gentle, safe, pain-free and noninvasive since it uses no ultraviolet (UV) light or lasers. It targets sebaceous glands, killing p. acnes, the acne-causing bacteria that can form within the sebaceous glands leading to break outs. Because there are no side effects, it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin, and can be used in conjunction with topical therapies or as an add-on to extraction treatments.

These blue light systems can also be used with a photosensitizing solution as part of PDT (photodynamic therapy) to treat actinic keratoses.

What’s a blue light treatment like?

The treatment is very relaxing. If you’re wearing makeup, you will first remove it. Our light technician will then outfit you with protective goggles and depending on the area being treated either have you sit or lay down in front of the the blue light. Treatments generally last 20 minutes. You can get back to your daily activities immediately following treatment. Your skin may be a little red at first, but that soon goes away. The most important thing is that you will need to be very careful to wear a sunblock and limit your sun exposure afterwords.

How many treatments does it take?

Sometimes improvement is seen after only a few treatments, but generally several treatments, given 2-3 times a week, are required for optimal results. After a patient’s skin has cleared up, fewer treatments are usually needed.

How much does it cost?

$25 for a 20-minute session.

Why would someone choose blue light over other acne treatments?

Usually topical creams or prescription medications are tried first in treating acne. If these don’t work or have unwanted side effects, blue light treatments may be recommended. Blue light has the advantage of no side effects, is suitable for sensitive skin and the patient doesn’t have to remember to take the pills or apply the topicals. Patients can also avoid trying to get creams to hard to reach areas like the back. Blue light treatments can also be used in conjunction with topical treatments.

BLU-U® System by Dusa

The BLU-U® Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator system by DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. gained FDA approval in 2003 for the treatment of mild to moderate acne. It is a compact light source with u-shaped fluorescent tubes designed to uniformly distribute blue light onto the face and scalp of a patient sitting in front of it.

Lumenis ClearLight™ Phototherapy

The ClearLight™ Phototherapy system by Lumenis® was approved by the FDA in 2002 for use on moderate acne. We use it for larger treatment areas, such as the back and chest.

*Prices subject to change without notice.