Up Your Acne Game

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting both men and women. While occasional breakouts are common, many clients seek professional treatment options when traditional acne products, topical preparations, and chemical peels do not provide the desired results. Acne can affect adults of all ages, with many individuals experiencing persistent or recurring breakouts that require a more targeted approach.

What is Photopneumatic Therapy?

Photopneumatic therapy is a light-based acne treatment that combines vacuum extraction with broadband light (BBL) or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy in a dual-action process. 

How Does Photopneumatic Therapy Work?

This vacuum suction is applied to help loosen and extract dead cells, debris, and excess oil from the pores, while a broadband laser (BBL) or intense pulsed light (IPL) flashes against the skin, targeting the Propionibacterium (P. acnes) bacteria that leads to acne breakouts. This kills the bacteria and allows the skin to heal.³ Depending on the type of acne being treated, topical preparations may be applied posttreatment to further purify the skin and aid in healing. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Photopneumatic Therapy? 

Photopneumatic therapy treats all forms of acne and clogged pores, including blackheads, pustules, papules, and even hormonal, cystic acne.⁴ It can even be used on the body to treat hormonal breakouts affecting the back and chest. One of the great benefits to photopneumatic therapy is that it can be used on all skin types and Fitzpatrick skin types. Since this acne treatment incorporates the use of either an IPL or BBL, it also has the added benefit of targeting the post inflammatory pigment, uneven skin tone, and erythema that is common in acne sufferers.⁵ Treatment selection should always be based on the client's skin condition, acne type, skin type, and individual treatment goals. 

Photopneumatic Therapy Benefits for Acne 

Photopneumatic therapy may help: 

• Extract clogged pores and debris  
• Reduce acne-causing bacteria  
• Improve inflammatory acne lesions  
• Reduce excess oil buildup  
• Improve redness and post-inflammatory discoloration 

Photopneumatic Therapy Contraindications and Considerations

Photopneumatic therapy should not be used on those who are pregnant, have taken Accutane (isotretinoin) in the last six months, or have an active cold sore outbreak. These contraindications are not all-inclusive. Estheticians working in medical esthetics settings should follow established protocols and the guidance of their medical director.

Advanced Esthetics Insurance for Light Based Treatments

Professional liability insurance for IPL and BBL services can help protect estheticians offering advanced light-based treatments. 

ASCP members have access to optional laser and light energy coverage, along with additional advanced modality coverage options. Learn more about advanced esthetics insurance, eligibility requirements, and coverage options for your practice. 

EXPLORE ADVANCED COVERAGE OPTIONS
 

Frequently Asked Questions About Photopneumatic Therapy 

What is photopneumatic therapy? 

Photopneumatic therapy is an acne treatment that combines vacuum extraction with light-based technology to remove debris, target acne bacteria, and improve the appearance of acne-prone skin. 

How does photopneumatic therapy treat acne? 

The vacuum component helps extract oil and debris from pores, while IPL or BBL light targets acne-causing bacteria. 

What type of acne can photopneumatic therapy treat? 

Photopneumatic therapy may be used for clogged pores, blackheads, pustules, papules, and some forms of inflammatory acne. 

Can photopneumatic therapy be used on all skin types? 

Photopneumatic therapy may be appropriate for various skin types, but treatment settings and protocols should always be customized for the individual client. 

What are common contraindications for photopneumatic therapy? 

Contraindications may include pregnancy, recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use, and active cold sores. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and medical protocols.

Notes

1. Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, n.d., “Acne: ‘Breaking Out’ of Quarantine,” accessed November 2020, www.advancedderm. com/about-us/news/acne-breaking-out-of-quarantine.
2. New Beauty Staff, “Isolaz For Fast Acne Improvement,” New Beauty, May 24, 2010, www.newbeauty.com/isolaz-for-fast-acne-improvement.
3. About Face Skin Care, n.d., “Isolaz Acne Treatments,” accessed November 2020, www.aboutfaceskincare.com/services/isolaz-acne-treatments.
4. About Face Skin Care, “Isolaz Acne Treatment.”
5. Advanced Dermatology, n.d., “Isolaz Deep Pore Lazr Therapy,” accessed November 2020, www.advdermatology.com/isolaz----pages-53.php.