What to Expect from Laser Treatment for Acne

Acne is a huge skin problem, whether you’re an adolescent or in the prime of adulthood. Sadly, topicals and changes to your diet aren’t usually enough to banish blemishes for good. 

Enter laser treatment for acne. 

Dr. Divina Averilla and our team at Love Your Body Medical Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada, specialize in bringing patients the best, most advanced treatments for the most frustrating and embarrassing cosmetic problems. 

Here, we highlight our laser treatments for stubborn acne (and acne scarring) so you know what to expect and can decide whether it’s right for you. 

The science behind laser treatments for acne

We use intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments with a few goals in mind: to eliminate acne-causing bacteria, and reduce the dilation in the blood vessels around each pimple to tamp down swelling and redness. We adjust the laser settings depending on whether you have active acne or scars from a recent breakout. 

If we’re going after acne scars, the lasers kick-start your body’s collagen production, allowing your body to rebuild your skin with healthier cells. 

Our patients love laser treatments because they’re fast, safe, and virtually pain-free. Here are a few other things you can expect if laser treatments are right for you. 

Expect almost totally clear skin

Laser treatments are incredibly effective, and many of our patients experience a significant reduction in their acne. We rarely recommend laser use as a stand-alone treatment. To get closer to 100% clear skin, we often pair laser treatments with our other services, such as chemical peels, facials, and microdermabrasion. 

You can also continue practicing healthy habits that support your skin and keep breakouts at bay. 

Expect results to vary

A friend may rave about her laser treatment results, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have the same story. Your results may vary widely depending on your skin type and tone and the severity of your acne. 

Expect to need a series of treatments

One laser treatment session is rarely enough to achieve the desired results. Most of our patients need a series of treatments to see a significant reduction in active acne. 

Even after you’ve completed your treatment plan, you may need follow-up and maintenance appointments once or twice a year. 

Expect it to take time

Many patients feel immediate improvement in their skin, but the best results develop over time and after you’ve had a few treatments. Caring for your skin and combining laser treatments with our other aesthetic and skincare services is the best way to speed up and maintain your results. 

Expect some side effects

Laser treatments are some of the safest available, but you may still have to deal with some side effects. Your skin may be red and sensitive the first few days, and during the first week, you’ll notice the dead outer layer of skin peeling off to reveal a fresher layer of clear skin underneath. 

Dr. Averilla provides thorough aftercare instructions to help you care for your skin as it heals. It usually includes advice about wearing sunscreen, avoiding certain skincare products, and avoiding strenuous exercise for the first few days and weeks. 

If you have more questions about our laser treatments or any of our other services, contact Love Your Body Medical Spa online to request an appointment with Dr. Averilla or call our friendly staff today.