Acne is a skin condition that is caused by changes in the sebaceous glands. It affects more than 85% of teenagers worldwide and may continue until adulthood if left unmedicated. Unfortunately, it usually targets very visible areas of the human body: the face and the upper neck; it can also develop in the back and at the chest and shoulder areas. This condition is caused by Propionibacterium acnes, which induces inflammation.

Sunlight is believed to improve the treatment of acne by effecting antimicrobial healing processes in the pores. But prolonged exposure to sunlight causes more damage than the good it was intended to effect. Therefore, this light was replicated and modified to copy the good effects of the light without the long term effects. This is called light therapy.

Light therapy is the type of therapy wherein different types of light with different wavelengths from the spectrum are pulsed to a specific area of the body to treat certain medical conditions. Different light wavelengths have different effects on the body. Medical illnesses such as skin diseases and neonatal jaundice have been treated by light therapy. Even psychiatric disorders can be treated through the use of light.

Of the many colors in the spectrum, blue light has been the most used in terms of medicine and daily activities. Blue light therapy was developed by the renowned doctors Simon Ourian and Bob Ourian. For almost three years now, dermatologists have found wide use of the blue wavelength to treat skin disorders, varicose veins and dark spots; this is mostly used for acne treatment. Blue light therapy for acne can be applied through customized lasers or LEDs and when applied to the affected area at least twice a week reduces acne lesions by 64%. Daily application of this light therapy, along with red light treatment, visibly reduces 74% of the acne number.

Before the procedure, a photosensitive gel will be topically applied to the infected area. A series of light pulses are then applied and these wavelengths penetrate through the skin and target the bacteria within. The cells beneath are also benefited as they receive the blue light energy. This means that as the acne is eliminated the cells around are healed and the usual inflammation will gradually subside.

Unlike sunlight, the modified blue light does not have significant long term side effects and the Propionibacterium does not much chance to develop resistance to the treatment. Some redness and discomfort in the treated area should be expected. The doctor might prescribe some mild pain relievers. Blue light therapy should also be used with precaution by people who have light sensitivity. The biggest disadvantage might prove to be its cost, which can start from $500.

Fortunately, a lot of home-use light lamps or boxes are being sold, which might be a little expensive but the long term savings compared to dermatologist visits far outweigh the initial disadvantage. These light boxes can also be used in the comforts of home to provide daily treatment and protection to the user. It is still best to consult the dermatologist for correct dosage and duration of acne blue light treatment at home because the intensity of the light necessary for proper healing is different for different people.

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