A NORTH-EAST doctor and inventor has developed a new light-emitting device which claims to improve facial scarring.

The new JuveLume device launched by Hartlepool GP Dr Gordon Dougalm after research in South Africa and the United States, is based on a proven technology he invented.

The new device can be used to treat acne scarring, other forms of facial scarring and unwanted skin pigmentation.

The technical breakthrough occurred a few years a go when Dr Dougal - who has a degree in medicine and engineering - established that harmless near infra-red light seemed effective in treatment cold sores.

The healing properties of devices that emit light at a wavelength of 1072 nanometres was confirmed independently by research carried out at Sunderland and Durham Universities.

The researchers were able to prove that the light had a biological and biochemical effect on human tissue.

After developing applicators to treat cold sores and reduce facial wrinkling Dr Dougal has now moved on to tackling facial scarring.

Dr Dougal, who was assisted by former Darlington Memorial Hospital eye surgeon Jim Haslam and pharmacist Les Halgreen, carried out research in South Africa and in the United States.

Ten out of a total of 22 volunteers who took part had unwanted facial pigmentation as well as acne scarring.

After two months of treatment 18 thought their facial scarring was a greatly improved and four thought it was slightly improved.

Nine out of 10 participants felt that their unwanted facial pigmentation was better after treatment.

Dr Dougal said users are likely to see an improvement after four weeks of daily treatment. After eight weeks 95 per cent of the volunteers noticed an improvement in their scar tissue.

The applicators cost from 22 to 99.

For more information visit juvelume.com