Laser/Light Treatments

Dr. Chavez’s Acne Regimen...Laser/Light Acne Treatments

Most clients need an initial series of 4-8 treatments (average of six treatments) to achieve significant clearance. Treatments are generally scheduled every 1-2 weeks for active acne and every 4-6 weeks for acne scarring. Clients can expect to need one maintenance treatment approximately every 3-12 months (varies) after desired results are achieved.

Significant/prolonged sun exposure should be avoided for two weeks prior to treatments, and for the duration of the treatments. Oil-free sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) should be used every day, and reapplied after every two hours of sun exposure. Sunblock is available in our office to apply immediately after treatments. Oil-free makeup can also be applied after the treatments, if desired.

 Smoothbeam Laser—FDA approved for acne, acne scarring, fine lines/wrinkles.

The Smoothbeam is generally best for clients with light skin, who don't mind a little discomfort, in exchange for the fastest results (generally) with no "downtime".

• How it works: Damages oil glands and stimulates collagen.
• What will I look like after the treatment? Clients may have “red spots” on the treated area for 1-2 hours following the treatment.
• Home-care: Must use sunblock to avoid blisters/hyperpigmentation.
• Discomfort: Most clients feel a mild-moderate “sting” during the treatment. An ice pack is used during the treatment to minimize this sting. Topical anesthetic may be applied prior to the treatment if desired. There is generally no discomfort after the treatment.

 PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT)—used for acne, sun damage, skin rejuvenation.

The PDT is generally best for clients with darker skin, or who want the lowest overall cost (in general), in exchange for it possibly taking more time for optimal improvement, and with some "downtime" (see home-care, below.)

• How it works: Suppresses oil gland activity and kills bacteria
• What will I look like after the treatment?  Clients may be red for a few days (like a sunburn), sometimes followed by peeling for 3-7days.
• Home-care: Clients must remain indoors and away from bright light for two days after the treatment.
• Discomfort: There is generally no discomfort during the treatment. However, there could be a mild burning sensation (like a sunburn) briefly during the treatment. No topical anesthetic is needed. After the treatment, clients generally have no discomfort, but it could, rarely, feel like a sunburn.

Isolaz PhotoPneutatic Therapy--FDA approved for acne, including comedonal (blackheads/whiteheads):

  Isolaz is generally doesn't work quite as well or last as long as the Smoothbeam or PDT, so, it's generally not our 1st choice. For some clients, however, it works best for them!)

• How it works: Vacuum gently unclogs the pores while the light kills the bacteria and suppresses the oil gland
• What will I look like after the treatment?Minimal redness (like a mild sunburn), generally lasting for only a few minutes.
• Home-care: Sunblock is recommended.
• Discomfort: Virtually painless.