How does the system work?
The system consists of intense light that is emitted in a series of short pulses. The yellow light emitted by the system destroys the bacteria that cause acne, while the red light directly targets the overactive sebaceous glands that cause acne. This heats the glands and appears to help prevent the production of excess sebum.

How is the treatment carried out?
It is necessary to apply a thin layer of gel to the skin prior to treatment. This helps to cool the skin, as well as ensuring maximum transmission of light from the applicator to the skin.
A test patch should always be taken; the rectangular quartz applicator is placed in contact with the skin surface over the affected area. The light is pulsed through the quartz and onto the skin. If the results of the test patch are satisfactory, the applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated. During treatment you must wear protective eye goggles.

Which patients can be treated?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark skinned or tanned individuals. People with mild to severe acne should see an improvement. Pregnant women or people taking the acne treatment Roaccutane should not be treated.

Does it hurt?
As the light energy is absorbed by the skin, it heats it up, and creates a sharp pinprick sensation. Most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. No anaesthesia is required, other than cooling the skin.

What should I expect after the treatment?
Redness and a slight burning sensation are normal after treatment. Any redness generally dies down within 30 minutes, but some people may remain red for up to 24 hours. A cooling pack will be applied to the skin to ease these symptoms. It will be necessary to avoid sun exposure or use a high protection sunscreen for 2 weeks after the treatment.

What are the side effects?
The visible light is completely safe so no special precautions are needed apart from glasses for the brightness. The skin of some patients becomes quite red immediately after treatment. However, most patients experience no side effects and the redness usually disappears within hours. Very rarely the skin may become lighter or darker, or a small blister may form. It is possible that some hair loss will occur, and it could be permanent, so men should consider this possibility before agreeing to treatment of their beard area. There are some positive side effects as well as acne reduction, many people find that their skin texture and tone dramatically improve.

How do I prepare for treatment?
Patients should avoid tanning and must not use any fake tan 6 weeks ahead of and during the entire treatment period to avoid excessive discomfort from light absorption in the epidermis. Immediately after the treatment, the skin is particularly sensitive to UV light, and strong sunlight should be avoided for 2-3 weeks.

How long does treatment take?
A typical treatment session will take in the region of 15 to 45 minutes.

How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments necessary varies from person to person, but typically 1-5 treatments will be needed. Treatments should take place approximately every 2 to 4 weeks.