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Normally, scar treatment entails the use of a surgical procedure to help replace extensive scars with a less noticeable scar. However, in the past couple of decades, laser therapy has become a popular alternative to surgery. Laser therapy is much less invasive and requires less down time than surgery.

In recent years light therapy has become a very interesting alternative to certain more invasive 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 closer look at both types of therapy.

Blue Light Therapy

This type of therapy has been used since the early 1980s. In fact, it was initially used to treat seasonal depression disorders. However, it has now been used to help control acne breakouts.

By using blue light therapy for acne, an acne sufferer needn't take antibiotics. This is good news for acne sufferers because our bodies become resistant to antibiotics after a certain amount of time. In fact, some doctors have began to notice that this type of therapy could also help even fine lines and fade scars.

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. This type of light proved itself capable of helping regenerate skin tissue and helping improve the appearance of the skin.

This type of therapy can not only help boost circulation and promote the production of collagen, but it can also help trigger the body's natural 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 is comprehendible because untreated acne leads to acne scars. If the acne is treated with light therapy, there is less of a chance of developing scars.

If you already have scars, it is possible that light therapy can treat them. The light kills acne bacteria, but also stimulates the skin to produce additional collagen. As collagen is produced, the scar tissue (ice pick scars, box car scars, etc) is evened out, presenting a smoother appearance.

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

Possible Side Effects

You shouldn't worry much about side effects, because they are mostly temporary. Side effects may include redness and flaking of the treated area. Make sure you consult with your doctor if the reactions do not subside.