Acne is one of the most commonly treated
diseases in cosmetic dermatology, occurring in up to 80% of
people at most stages of life. In spite of the multiple treatments
available, many patients fail to improve adequately and many
develop significant side effects.
Acne usually occurs during adolescence and affects particular
areas of the body, such as the face, chest, and back. It involves
an excessive production of sebum by hypertrophic sebaceous
glands. When these factors are accompanied by a defect in
keratinization, the skin becomes a fertile ground for build-up
of corneal clogs in the follicular infundibulum. These may
remain aseptic or result in the growth of microorganisms(mainly
Propionibacterium acnes)which are responsible for the inflammatory
lesions (papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts)that often
result in macules and permanent scars.
Although acne usually heals spontaneously in early adulthood,
treatment measures can shorten the course, reduce the severity
of the disease, and help to prevent complications. In many
patients a combination of treatments aimed at correcting abnormal
keratinization and reducing the proliferation of Propionibacterium,
or P. acnes, is sufficient to control the disease.
Phototherapy for acne is based on the fact that P. acnes produce
porphyrins as part of its normal metabolism. Exposure of these
compounds to specific wavelengths starts a chemical reaction
that produces peroxide, which in turn kills the bacteria.
In vitro tests of the visible light spectrum have shown that
the stronger reaction occurs in the presence of narrow band,
intense blue-violet light in the 405-420 nm wavelength range.
ClearLight emits blue-violet light for the treatment of acne
lesions for subjects with a variety of skin types. Concomitant
use of Dr. Andy's Anti-Aging Cosmeceuticals will give excellent
results in a short time. |
