Smoothbeam - Patients ask, Dr. Ringpfeil answers
Please feel free to use the blog below to share information about Smoothbeam or to ask Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil a question that might be of interest to others.
Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Smoothbeam Laser
Overview:
This non-ablative diode laser selectively destroys sebaceous glands.
Expected results:
Destruction of sebaceous hyperplasias. While not first line treatment for acne, the Smoothbeam laser offers an effective treatment option in recalcitrant inflammatory acne.
Preparation:
None
Post treatment instructions:
Sun protection x 6 weeks
Time to desired results:
1-3 treatments about 3-4 weeks apart may be necessary to eradicate sebaceous hyperplasias, acne treatment is variable and may require between 1-5 treatments.
Contraindications:
None. Safe on all skin types.
Duration of desired effects:
Permanent. Note: sebaceous hyperplasias are genetically determined and new growths may form in other areas. The Smoothbeam laser does not prevent this genetic tendency.
Downtime:
Redness and possible blister formation for up to 3 days.
Hello,
I have had inflammatory acne since I was 16 (i’m now 22). I now get the some cysts around my period, n my cheeks (usually 1-3, but this month I got 6). They don’t heal quickly, are painful, and leave large red marks. I was wondering if this laser is a good option for me? Will this destroy alot of my sebaceous glands, or only the hyperplasias? I don’t wish to have extremely dry skin, but it always has been very very oily.
The strength of the Smoothbeam laser is its ability to destroy oil glands. This is the reason that it received FDA approval to treat acne when it was first released to the market many year ago. We use it only occasionally for acne. However, it is the right choice for some people. If used for acne, we recommend about 3 treatments 6 weeks apart to induce remission. For acne treatment with Smoothbeam, your skin must be fair (Fitzpatrick skin type III or lighter) and not tan at time of treatment. A medical consultation is needed prior to treatment.