Blue Light Therapy
Blue light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses natural blue or violet light to address various skin conditions. At Summerlin Dermatology, we specialize in providing this advanced therapy to help patients achieve clearer, healthier skin with safe and effective solutions. It effectively targets acne, sun damage, and precancerous lesions while promoting healthier skin.
What's Blue Light Therapy?
Blue Light Therapy works by penetrating the skin at a specific wavelength, effectively killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Additionally, when combined with a photosensitizing agent in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), Blue Light Therapy can treat actinic keratosis (precancerous lesions) and sun-damaged skin while improving skin texture and tone.
Unlike more aggressive treatments like chemical peels or lasers, Blue Light Therapy has minimal downtime, making it an excellent option for those seeking safe and effective skin rejuvenation without long recovery periods. It is also a widely used alternative treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) due to its ability to regulate mood and energy levels.
Key Benefits of Blue Light Therapy:
Acne Treatment – Destroys acne-causing bacteria, reduces breakouts, and calms inflammation.
Sun Damage & Skin Cancer Prevention – With PDT, it treats actinic keratosis and sunspots while promoting healthier skin.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia Reduction – Targets and shrinks enlarged oil glands for smoother skin.
Safe & Non-Invasive – No needles, incisions, or significant recovery time.
Minimal Side Effects – Little to no discomfort, making it ideal for all skin types.
Who Can Benefit from Blue Light Therapy?
Blue Light Therapy is suitable for individuals looking to improve skin health, clear acne, or treat precancerous lesions. It is particularly beneficial for those who have:
Acne-Prone Skin - Those with persistent breakouts and inflammation.
Actinic Keratosis (Sunspots) – Pre-cancerous skin growths due to sun damage.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia – Enlarged oil glands causing uneven skin texture.
General Sun Damage – Uneven pigmentation, redness, and early signs of aging.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Mood-related issues tied to lack of sunlight.
Contraindications:
Blue Light Therapy should be avoided by individuals with porphyria, lupus, or photosensitivity allergies, as it may trigger adverse reactions. If you have any of these conditions, be sure to talk with your dermatologist BEFORE considering this treatment.
How Blue Light Therapy Works
Blue Light Therapy is a quick, outpatient procedure that is comfortable and requires minimal preparation.
Preparation:
Arrive without makeup, sunscreen, or moisturizer on the treatment area.
If undergoing PDT, a photosensitizing drug is applied to the skin and left to absorb for about an hour before the light therapy begins.
Treatment Process:
Protective goggles will be provided to shield your eyes from bright light exposure.
A specialized blue light device is positioned over the treatment area for 15 to 20 minutes.
If PDT is used, you may feel warmth or tingling, which can be alleviated with a cooling fan.
Frequency of Treatment:
Acne: Typically requires 6-8 sessions (twice weekly).
Actinic Keratosis: Generally needs 2-3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for best results.
Patients can return to normal activities immediately, except when undergoing PDT, which requires strict light avoidance for a period after treatment.
Post-Treatment Care and Possible Side Effects
After Blue Light Therapy, mild redness is common but resolves quickly. However, PDT requires additional care due to heightened skin sensitivity.
Post-Treatment Care:
Avoid Sun & Bright Light – For 40 hours after PDT, avoid direct sunlight and bright indoor lights.
Be Gentle with Your Skin – Wash the area with mild soap and water; expect light peeling or crusting for 3-14 days.
Minimize Irritation – Refrain from picking at flaking skin or popping blisters to avoid infection.
Plan for Recovery – If undergoing PDT, stay indoors in a dimly lit environment for the first two days.
Potential Side Effects:
Mild redness or irritation (similar to a mild sunburn).
Swelling in sensitive areas (especially near the eyes).
Temporary skin darkening or lightening (in rare cases).
Patients should contact their provider if experiencing severe swelling, discomfort, or signs of infection.
Related Conditions
Related Treatments
Is Blue Light Therapy Right for You?
Blue Light Therapy is an innovative, non-invasive solution for acne, sun damage, and skin rejuvenation. Whether used on its own or combined with Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for precancerous lesions, it offers minimal downtime and lasting results. If you're seeking a safer, effective alternative to invasive treatments, Blue Light Therapy may be the right choice for you.
Schedule an appointment at Summerlin Dermatology today by calling (702) 243-4501 or Request an Appointment online to learn more about how this treatment can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin!