ALA & Light Therapy

ALA and light therapy works to treat acne by using a combination of light energy and a photosensitizing compund that is applied to the skin. During the two step process, a solution of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is applied to the skin to be treated. ALA is a topical medication that increases sensitivity to light. When it is used to treat acne, ALA is kept on the skin for a period of time ranging from 15 to 60 minutes. During the second step of treatment the ALA is removed and light energy (in one form or another) is used to "activate" the ALA. Because of this increased sensitivity to light the treatment works to kill acne bacteria and even shrink the sebaceous glands.

Findings from recent research studies indicate that treatment with blue or red light after the application of ALA can be effective. However, red light may produce some undesirable side effects. Side effects, such as temporary darkening of the skin and development of folliculitis (an inflammation of hair follicles that resembles acne), may occur.

To learn more about this treatment, contact your local acne physician.