BLU-U Light Therapy

Acne is a skin condition that affects people of all ages. It is most common on the face but can develop on the back, chest, neck, and shoulders. The most common type of acne is acne vulgaris. There are several types of treatments for acne, ranging from over-the-counter to prescription topical creams, gels, or lotions. At Alta Vista Dermatology in Highlands Ranch, CO, we offer an innovative solution to controlling acne called BLU-U Light Therapy.

For treatment, patients sit in front of a blue light for about 15 minutes in one to two sessions per week. Depending on the needs of the patient and severity of the acne, treatment time may be up to five weeks. The blue light targets and destroys the Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) bacteria that cause acne inflammation. BLU-U Light Therapy is ideal for treating moderate to severe acne.

We also provide another treatment called Levulan Photodynamic Therapy to treat actinic keratoses. This is treatment is unique because it uses a light activated therapy in combination with the BLU-U light to treat the skin. Actinic keratoses generally begin as patches of skin that feel rough but are difficult to see.

Lesions that have increased in size or are raised, bleed, do not heal properly, are discolored, or are associated with discomfort such as pain or itching may be actinic keratosis. These lesions may appear pink, red, or brown, and feel different than surrounding healthy skin. Left untreated, they can lead to squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common skin cancer. While most patches of skin remain benign, about 10 percent can develop into squamous cell carcinoma within an average of one to two years.

More than 5 million people in the United States are treated for skin cancer every year. Frequent skin examinations are critical to prevention and early detection. We recommend monthly self-examinations and yearly full body skin examinations performed by board-certified dermatologists to ensure optimal health and wellness.

If you suffer from acne or you have noticed any signs of actinic keratosis, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists today by calling our team at 303.888.6426.