Can I Have Light Therapy for my Acne?


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As light therapy is so free of side effects there are no real conditions that could prevent you from having it. It is wise to discuss using light therapy with your doctor or dermatologist before you invest in a home light therapy device or book any light therapy sessions. Your doctor or dermatologist will be able to confirm that you can safely undergo the therapy, explain the process and its risks to you and could recommend the best types of therapy available.

Can I have Photodynamic Treatment (PDT)?

There are a number of conditions that rule you out of having PDT. Most commonly you should not have the treatment if you have dark skin that tans easily. You should also avoid the therapy if you have light skin which tends to burn or if you will be unable to stay out of sunlight for the necessary 24-48 hours after the treatment. If you are taking any medication that, as a side effect, could make you unusually sensitive to light you should also not have PDT.


Other conditions may prevent you from undergoing treatment. For example, if you are prone to skin infections such as staph or other non-compatible medical conditions like porphyria or systemic lupus erythematosus.

In order to have the best and safest treatment, please ensure that your practitioner is well aware of your entire medical history. If you are not sure about anything make sure you ask.

Light Therapy During Pregnancy

Light therapy is not thought to cause problems during pregnancy. However, no research has been conducted to prove that this is the case. It is possible therefore that light therapy is not safe during pregnancy. A number of women have successfully undergone light therapy while pregnant but others do not wish to take the risk. Whether or not you have light therapy while pregnant is your choice but the general decision is that it is better to be safe than sorry. For more information consult your doctor.

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