Acne is a very common disorder that primarily affects adolescents and young adults. Genetic factors, diet and stress may also contribute to the development and severity of acne. Treatment of active acne usually consists of a good skin care regimen, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and retinoids. Active acne is distinct from acne scarring which may occur from tissue damage after inflammatory lesions subside.
Pulsed dye laser has been used in the treatment of acne scarring; however more recently, lasers have been investigated for the treatment of active inflammatory acne. Laser therapy at various irradiation levels or fluences (e.g., low- and mid-level irradiation lasers and long pulse diode lasers) has been used to destroy active acne lesions and enlarged sebaceous glands.
Lasers are believed to improve active acne lesions by reducing the presence of P acnes. Lasers may also have anti-inflammatory affects which may improve active acne. Pulsed dye lasers are less ablative and purpuric and may be preferred in active acne treatment to limit tissue damage and potential treatment related scarring. Laser treatment of active acne lesions may also reduce potential acne scarring that can occur in severe cases.