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About Phototherapy

Also referred to as light therapy, phototherapy has been used by some for natural and chemical free acne treatment. Some have used similar therapies for the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder and to improve the natural circadian rhythms of the body, and it is standard practice to treat infants with light therapy to avoid neonatal jaundice. But how does this apply to acne?

History of Phototherapy

As early as 1500BC, Indian medical literature detailed the use of light to treat non-pigmented skin areas. Buddhist literature written in 200AD also described light therapy, while Chinese literature became aware of it in the 10th century. It was only introduced to the Western world in 1903, at which time Danish physician Nils Finsen won a Nobel Peace Prize.

How Does It Affect Skin?

Sunlight has been said to fight acne. If you go tanning, chances are you are going to make your acne worse, because you will burn the skin and increase natural sebum production. But when used in moderation and with specific modifications, sunlight has been known to eliminate bacteria with ultraviolet spectrum.

Its Effect on Acne Vulgaris

When proper light therapy is used for 3 consecutive days, it reduces bacteria production by up to 99%. The treatment is generally seen as safe, except in patients with a condition called porphyria. Eye protection is used when this treatment is administered, and they use specialized rays. But despite what some may think, phototherapy cannot be compared to a tanning bed or sun exposure. Most phototherapies use blue light therapy rather than UV radiation.

Psoriasis & Eczema

Phototherapy has also been used to address other skin conditions, because again, blue light has specifically been shown to produce a significant reduction in acne causing bacteria. It eliminates the bacteria that also plays a part in rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema, and when done right, it does not damage or breakdown healthy skin cells.

Does Phototherapy Prevent Scarring

Phototherapy has been used in many settings. But it is one of the few acne treatments that might not only prevent, but actually heal acne scarring once the deed has been done. Because of its similarities to laser therapy, it has been shown to enhance the production of skin cells, collagen, and elastin, therefore enhancing wound healing and reducing scars.

Safety Issues

Phototherapy is only to be used through limited application. Over time, ultraviolet rays can cause progressive damage to human skin. It can destroy collagen, elastin, vitamin A, and vitamin C, and it can create harmful free radicals if not used properly. But when used in combination with the proper therapies and other approaches, phototherapy seems to be relatively safe.

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