Research.
Studies show
that blue and red light at a specific wavelengths act together in
clearing acne by combining antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
activity, and that blue-red light phototherapy is an effective and safe
treatment for acne .
As published
in the British Journal of Dermatology, Phototherapy with blue and red
light was studied in the treatment of mild to moderate acne . After 12
weeks of 15-minute daily active treatments with a portable light
source, a mean improvement of 76% in inflammatory lesions was observed.
Investigators and patients favoured blue-red light therapy, with more
patients achieving marked improvement or clearance than in any of the
other treatment group.
The
researchers concluded that blue light and red light "act
synergistically in improving acne by combining anti-inflammatory
action, rendering phototherapy with blue-red light an effective and
safe treatment for acne".
Based on the
information in this study BeautySkin has taken these colours of light
and combined them in a single lightbox which is easy to use at home, in
the office or is portable enough to travel with you.
See a BBC
article about light therapy and its effectiveness in reducing acne and
skin complaints:
Light
therapy, best for acne.
(18 July, 2000) click here to view article.
.............................................................
Conventional
treatments for acne.
Millions of
pounds is spent on acne medications and treatments each year. In many
instances, the money spent yields less than satisfactory results and
can cause troublesome side-effects.
Most
prescription medications, such as antibiotics, require at least twelve
weeks of continuous treatment before any improvement can be expected.
Often, a second, third or fourth cycle of therapy is needed.
Over-the-Counter
Products:
There are
numerous products now available: acne cleansers, astringents,
moisturisers and spot creams available at local pharmacies. Some help
unplug whiteheads and blackheads while others help encourage the skin
to shed. It's important to use all products as directed.
Many experts
recommend giving over-the-counter products no more than six to eight
weeks to work. If there is no improvement in acne during that time
period, a dermatologist may be seen to explore other treatment options.
Many over-the-counter products are available in stronger "prescription
only" formulas.
Prescription
products:
Topical
Antibiotics:
These
"prescription only" products help to clear acne by killing the bacteria
that infect the pores. Sometimes acne may become resistant to the
antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. Side effects can include dry,
red skin and an increase in sun sensitivity.
Oral
Antibiotics:
These
systemic medications affect the entire body and therefore can cause
very unpleasant side effects. Some antibiotics, such as tetracycline,
need to be taken on an empty stomach. Side effects can include nausea,
vomiting and dizziness.
Vitamin
A Derivatives:
These
retinoid medications prevent skin cells from clumping together and
encourage shedding. Usually applied once a day, these medications can
increase sensitivity to the sun, so it's important that patients use a
suitable sunscreen.
Side effects
can include dryness, redness and irritation. One particular retinoid
(Isoretinoin or Roaccutane) has been associated with some very
unpleasant side-effects ( Reference BNF)
Oral
contraceptive tablets Pills:
These are
prescribed for women who have flare-ups that occur at the same time
each month during the menstrual cycle. The pills help control the
hormones that prompt oil production in the skin. Women should consult
their physician to determine which birth control pills are most
appropriate for particular skin conditions.
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