Blue Light Therapy For Acne

Introduction

Acne Vulgaris, which is more commonly referred to as acne, is a common inflammatory skin disease. It ranges in severity from mild to severe and can affect the mental health of those who suffer from it. Even after acne has cleared, the presence of acne scarring and post-inflammatory discolouring is also a concern.¹ Therefore, there are a range of different treatments available to those with acne. However, many of these treatments can irritate the skin and come with other side effects. Blue light therapy is a non-invasive treatment for acne that can be used as a non-irritative alternative to other treatments.²

What is acne?

Acne can present as either non-inflammatory or inflammatory skin eruptions, which are usually found in areas with more sebaceous glands. They can comprise blackheads, papules (inflamed bumps), or pustules (pus-filled pimples).¹ Severe acne presents as cysts, which are large lumps filled with pus. This form of acne poses the greatest risk of causing permanent scars.

Acne has a range of different causes, such as increased sebum production, genetics, hormones, bacterial growth, stress and pore-clogging cosmetics. Androgen hormones like testosterone can increase the production of sebum in the skin. The increase in sebum production allows acne-causing bacteria, such as P. acnes, to overgrow, resulting in inflammation and acne. Because androgen hormones can increase the risk of acne, it is most common in adolescents and, in particular, male adolescents.³

What is blue light therapy and does it work?

Blue light therapy is a type of phototherapy that uses visible light to treat skin diseases. As blue light is on the visible light spectrum, it is UV-free, therefore it does not have the negative effects of UV treatment, such as skin ageing. Blue light has been shown to have anti-microbial effects against acne-causing bacteria. The anti-inflammatory properties of blue light can reduce the inflammation of the skin caused by acne. Blue light may inhibit the formation of sebum, which reduces the risk of acne.⁴

Many studies have reported that the use of blue light improves acne. A randomised study used blue light therapy with a wavelength of 446 nm two times a week for six weeks on one side of the patient's face. They reported a significant reduction in inflammatory acne on the treated side. The benefits of blue light therapy are not only limited to devices used in clinics. A study using an at-home blue light device (414nm) also decreased inflammatory acne and smoothed the skin. However, blue light therapy has been shown to be less effective on non-inflammatory acne such as comedones (known as whiteheads and blackheads).²

How does blue light therapy compare to other acne treatments?

Common treatments for acne include:

• Topical retinoids- such as adapalene and retinoic acid
• Antimicrobials
• Oral isotretinoin (type of retinoid also known as Accutane)
• Topical benzoyl peroxide
• Topical antibiotics
• Oral antibiotics

These treatments depend on the grade of acne. However, they have side effects. Retinoids can cause dryness, flaking, and itching of the skin. Both oral and topical retinoids cannot be used by pregnant people as they can harm the development of the foetus. The use of antibiotics can also increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. Due to these side effects, blue light therapy may be an alternative for people sensitive to conventional acne treatments.

A study compared the use of blue light therapy to the use of benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. They reported that both treatments equally improved acne and there were fewer side effects using blue light ⁽²⁾. However, the treatment has not been shown to be better than topical retinoids or to be effective in treating severe acne. More research is needed to confirm this.⁵

Application of blue light therapy

Blue light therapy is administered using either an at-home or clinical device. The person sits under the device for a few minutes. Safety goggles are used to prevent harm to the eyes. The treatment is pain-free, and does not cause any irritation, unlike other acne treatments. Between sessions, it is recommended that you don’t pick on the acne to reduce irritation and the formation of scars. Your doctor will advise you on skincare products to use between sessions and after the treatment is complete. Treatments are commonly administered twice a week, and it usually takes around 4-12 weeks to see a reduction in non-severe acne.

Drawbacks of blue light therapy

While blue light is effective in treating acne, it may worsen hyperpigmentation in people with darker skin tones. A study reported that blue light induces melanocytes to produce more melanin. The hyperpigmentation is also longer-lasting since blue-light activation leads to longer tyrosinase activity (the enzyme involved in producing melanin). If you have darker skin and suffer from acne, your doctor may recommend an alternative form of treatment to avoid this.⁶

The cost of blue light therapy is also more costly compared to conventional treatments. Depending on your location, the treatment can cost from £50-£70 per session, with multiple sessions needed to see results. Having to travel to a clinic twice a week is also a downside to getting this treatment. This is why many opt to buy at-home devices as they have been shown to be effective. However, it may be harder to stick to the habit of using the device, especially if you don’t see a difference initially.

FAQs

Is blue light therapy safe for all skin types?

Most skin types can use blue light therapy with minimal concerns. However, it may worsen hyperpigmentation in those with darker skin tones. People who have photosensitivity disorders are not recommended for this therapy. Please ask your dermatologist before trying blue light therapy if you are sensitive to sunlight.

Can blue light therapy be combined with other acne treatments?

Blue light therapy is suitable for combination with other topical acne treatments. However, if your skin is sensitive prior to treatment, it may make the sensitivity worse. Ask your dermatologist before starting blue light therapy if you are on strong retinol.

How frequently should one undergo blue light therapy sessions for acne?

Blue light therapy sessions are typically two times a week for up to 12 weeks. You may see results after the first few sessions, however, it could take longer to see results.

Can blue light therapy be used as a preventative measure for acne breakouts?

Blue light therapy has been reported to control and prevent outbreaks of acne before it occurs.

Is there any downtime associated with blue light therapy?

No, this treatment has no downtime.

Can blue light therapy be used during pregnancy for acne management?

There is no evidence that blue light therapy affects a woman’s foetus during pregnancy. If you are concerned, please speak to your doctor before starting treatment.

Summary

Due to the many side effects associated with acne treatments, alternative treatments that have less irritation are popular. Blue light therapy is a common acne treatment that does not involve UV light, therefore it is safe. Studies have reported its effectiveness in treating mild-to-moderate acne. One of its methods of action is to kill acne-causing bacteria. However, this treatment cannot solely treat more severe forms of acne. More conventional treatments are used to treat severe acne. Despite being an expensive treatment when done in the clinic, cheaper at-home devices can be purchased that are effective in treating some forms of acne.