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Scar treatment usually involves the use of a surgical procedure to replace extensive scars. But recently, laser therapy has become a popular alternative to surgery. It's not difficult to understand why, laser therapy is much less invasive and requires less down time than surgery.

In recent years light therapy has become a viable alternative in acne scarring treatments, offering a solution to traditional scar problems and even facial blemishes. Both blue light and red light are considered to be the most common light treatment therapies. Here's a little history on both types of therapy.

Blue Light Therapy

This type of therapy has been used since the early 1980s. As a matter of fact, it actually began as a treatment for seasonal depression disorders. However, it has now been used to help control acne breakouts.

Using blue light therapy for acne, means that the person does not need to take antibiotics. This is good news for acne sufferers because they'll no longer have to worry about becoming resistant to antibiotics. In addition to this benefit, some doctors began to notice that this type of therapy could also help fade scars and even fine lines.

Red Light Therapy

In the 1960s in Europe, doctors noted that certain single wavelengths could have a therapeutic effect on skin tissue. More recently, cancer researchers have noticed that topical creams in conjunction with a single red frequency could kill certain types of skin cancer cells. It was later discovered that this type of light therapy could help regenerate skin tissue and improve its overall appearance.

This type of therapy also helps boost circulation and promote the production of collagen and the healing process.

Light Therapy & Scar Treatment

It was recently noted that instead of treating acne scars, light therapy was much better at promoting scar less healing. This makes absolute sense since untreated acne leads to acne scars. If the acne condition is treated with light therapy, then there is less of a chance that you will develop scars.

If scars have already been formed, it is possible for light therapy to treat them. The light helps kill acne bacteria, and stimulates the skin to produce additional collagen. As collagen is produced, scar tissue becomes more even, presenting a smoother appearance.

Light therapy can also be used in conjunction with dermal fillers to treat acne scars that are very deep. Hyaluronic acid is the most common filler for treating acne scarring. However, consult with your doctor to know which is the best filler for your type of skin and scars.

Possible Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and won't last long, so you needn't worry. Some common side effects may include redness and flaking of the treated area. Make sure you consult with your doctor if the reactions do not subside.