Aerolase for acne: a safe medical alternative to antibiotics

Medical Review: This article was reviewed for clinical accuracy by Dr. Andrew Sun of Sun Health Clinic, Sydney.‍

Featured Technology: Aerolase Neo Elite (FDA Cleared).

What are the limitations of topical acne treatments and antibiotics?

Initial topical acne treatments typically include ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and mild retinoids.

While topical agents like benzoyl peroxide and retinoids are common, they often fail persistent cases because they primarily treat the skin surface. Clinical limitations include:

• Barrier Disruption:

  High risk of dryness and irritation.

• Germ Resistance:

  Antibiotics are not a long-term solution due to bacterial adaptation.

• Depth of Treatment:

  Topicals cannot reach the sebaceous glands where acne begins.

Prescribed antibiotics often provide notable improvement through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects over weeks to months. However, causing germ resistance and risk for side effects means they are not for long-term use.

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Is isotretinoin (Roaccutane) safe? Benefits and limitations

Isotretinoin (Roaccutane, Accutane) is a well-established prescription treatment for severe acne, or acne that did not respond to safer options. It is generally effective and produces significant long term clearance in ~8 out of 10 patients.

Isotretinoin however is associated with a wide range of undesirable and dangerous side effects, including

• Dry skin/mouth/nose/eyes

• Skin rash/flaking/sensitivity

• Hair thinning

• Joint/muscle pain

• Liver/stomach injury

• Depression

• Suicidal ideation, and

• Birth defects if pregnant while taking it

It is also contraindicated in some patients, and acne recurrence after a full treatment course occurs in 2-3 out of 10 patients.

How does Aerolase Neo Elite treat acne without side effects?

Aerolase Neo Elite represents an evidence-based complement or alternative for acne treatment.

Using a 650-microsecond laser, NeoClear targets multiple factors implicated in acne development, including:

• Eliminating

  Cutibacterium acnes

  ,

  Demodex

  mites (the associated germs)

• Reducing the blood supply to sebaceous glands (the oil production, and is the sole target of the generally effective Aviclear laser)

• Reducing skin inflammation (the redness and disrupted skin barrier)

• Side effect of cumulatively reducing hyperpigmentation/erythema (PIH and PIE)

• Side effect of stimulating new collagen to even out scars (gradual process and can be continued with scar treatment protocols once acne controlled)

• Side effect of tightening skin and increasing skin barrier/skin health (when in conjunction with basic skincare)

What differentiates this modality is its capacity to deliver energy deeply into the skin with minimal collateral heat, so no numbing required, and no damage to skin.

It is suitable for all skin types, including darker skin that would hyperpigment with older lasers, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.

Aerolase has demonstrated results as a standalone treatment, as well as in conjunction with prescribed medications and isotretinoin.

For patients considering this option, you can learn more about Aerolase laser skin treatment in Sydney and whether it may be suitable for your skin and acne concerns.

What should you expect from Aerolase acne treatment?

Aerolase treatment is not an immediate solution and requires consistency over 3-6 sessions. (That being said, for many the inflammation immediately improves following the treatment, and continues to settle over the next few days.)

Treatment response varies based on acne severity, skin health, and the patient’s lifestyle.

At Sun Health Clinic, our protocol includes a complimentary non-medical consultation to assess suitability, followed by medical consultation and treatment plan.

Aerolase does not replace basic skincare or medical oversight, but can be integrated very well into a broader management plan.

It is a valuable option for patients seeking effective, low-risk alternatives without systemic side effects risk.

Is there a long-term solution for acne?

Conventional medical wisdom is that acne is a long term skin condition that can be treated effectively in most cases, but does require long term maintenance to keep the skin acne-free with eg 0.5% tretinoin (which also helps with skin texture and scar/pigmentation reduction).

It is important for patients and clinicians to be aware of the limitations that apply to the widely accepted skincare products, the evidenced-based medications, and even to the newer scientifically advanced options such as lasers and PRP. And to date, there is unfortunately no single treatment that works completely for every person.

Why is Sun Health Clinic the best for Aerolase in Sydney?

Aerolase is a medical-grade technology that requires clinical oversight. At Sun Health Clinic:

• Doctor-Guided:

  Every treatment plan is overseen by

  Dr. Andrew Sun

  , a Fellow of the RACGP with a Master’s in Science and Technology in Occupational Health and Safety.

• Integrative Approach:

  We combine laser therapy with medical diagnostics and holistic skin health, rather than just “zapping” the skin.

• Inclusivity:

  We specialise in treating

  Skin Types IV-VI

  (darker skin tones) which are often turned away by other laser clinics due to hyperpigmentation risks.

As a leading provider in Beaconsfield, Dr Andrew Sun ensures that Aerolase treatments are accessible to patients across the Greater Sydney area.

If you would like to understand whether Aerolase is appropriate for your skin and acne concerns, you can book a doctor consultation with Dr Andrew Sun to discuss treatment options and next steps.

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