Laser Treatments for Acne: What You Should Know

The science sounds almost too good to be true: Aim a beam of light at your zits, and they’re gone in a flash. However, laser treatments for acne aren’t always so simple, especially when you throw in factors like your skin type and the severity of your acne. 

Dr. Chinyere Orafu and our team at Ohio Laser & Wellness Center are proud to offer our pimple-prone patients the industry’s most advanced acne treatments but also want to be upfront about the entire journey to give you actual expectations. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to laser treatments for acne. 

Get to know the technology

You may have heard your friends explain their laser treatments in the simplest terms, so we’re here with a mini science lesson to help you better understand what happens. 

We use the AviClear® system, the first and only FDA-approved laser energy device to treat mild-to-severe acne. 

The lasers don’t just “zap your zits;” they target and suppress oil production in the layers of your skin to eliminate acne where it starts. Without oil production, your chances of a breakout go down significantly. 

Now that you know the basics, here are a few other facts to consider. 

You should have realistic goals

If you have severe, chronic acne, cystic acne, or nodules, you have some of the most aggressive forms of acne. Although you may still be a candidate, you may not see a 100% clearing of your skin. 

We may recommend combining laser treatments with other methods, like prescription topicals you can apply to your skin.

Results often vary

Your friend may have had incredible success with laser treatments, but you still experience stray breakouts (or vice versa). It’s not uncommon for laser treatments to work differently on different types of skin and acne. 

We have years of experience performing laser treatments for acne, and we walk you through what to expect from your results before you commit.

You may need more than one treatment

The need for more than one treatment is especially true if you have stubborn pimples. Many patients benefit from three treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. 

Once your results have developed, you may need follow-up or touch-up appointments once or twice a year to round out your treatment plan. We monitor your progress closely and discuss whether or not these maintenance appointments are necessary. 

Results are gradual

After years of battling acne, we understand you want clearer skin as soon as possible. Laser treatments will deliver on their promises, but they may take some time. 

Trusting us can benefit those who wait — fully developed results from laser treatments are evident within six months and last for the long haul once they do. 

You may have some side effects

Side effects from laser treatments aren’t usually anything to be nervous about. Most of our patients experience a mild stinging or burning sensation; others notice redness and swelling. 

These are mild and easy to manage with conservative methods like cold compresses and over-the-counter medication. 

Dr. Orafu carefully details your specific risk for side effects before you consider investing in laser treatments. 

Results often depend on you

You play a very active role in how well your results develop. To get the most out of your treatments (and avoid side effects), you must follow our post-treatment and skin care instructions to a “T.” Usually, that means:

• Avoiding direct sunlight
• Establishing a skin care routine
• Eating a well-balanced diet
• Preventing new breakouts

Talk to us about our favorite ways to manage acne breakouts and keep your skin clear and healthy. 

Ready to see what life is like with fewer blemishes? We’d love to talk with you. You can request a consultation online or call our friendly staff today. We serve patients in the Dover and Canton, Ohio, area.