The FDA has approved the use of the new GEMINI LASER for the treatment of acne. It is a quick, painless procedure that results in a major improvement in acne, including a faster healing of existing acne lesions. Many patients can reduce or eliminate the medications they are using for acne.

The Gemini Laser is the most advanced laser available today. It is the only laser that treats acne with two wavelengths of laser light. As a result, it treats both problems involved in acne formation:
1) bacteria on the skin and 2) excess production of oil in sebaceous glands. No other laser provides this dual technology for the treatment of acne.

The first wavelength of the Gemini Laser inactivates and kills the P.acnes bacteria on the skin. This is the bacteria that causes acne. The second wavelength shrinks the oil glands in the skin and reduces the amount of oil produced by these sebaceous glands. In addition, there is improvement in brown or red discolorations that may be present.

There are two techniques for acne treatment, depending on the severity of the acne. The first option is for mild to moderate acne. During this treatment, a number of passes are made over the skin with the Gemini Laser, producing a mild redness. There is minimal discomfort, and normal activities can be resumed immediately. Usually, four treatments are done over a two week period. Improvement usually lasts three or more months, after which maintenance treatments are done.

For moderate to severe acne, PDT (Photo-Dynamic Therapy) can be done. With this treatment, a topical medicine (Levulan) is first applied to the skin. After 30-60 minutes, laser treatment is performed. Levulan is absorbed by the bacteria on the skin and oil glands, and is activated by the laser light. This results in significant reduction in bacteria and oil production. Laser treatment becomes more effective, especially for more severe acne. Patients usually require one or two treatments, done 2-4 weeks apart. There is minimal discomfort with treatment. PDT treatment results in some redness, and the patient must avoid the sun for 24 hours. Maintenance treatments may be required.

PDT and Laser Acne Treatment are important additions to the medications and methods currently used to treat acne. They are safe, simple office procedures that produces significant, lasting improvement.