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Laser Therapy
Process: L.A.S.E.R. is the acronym for Light Amplified by Stimulated by
Emissions of Radiation.
What is it? A laser is a medical instrument that produces a powerful single beam of light and can produce intense heat when focused at close range. Lasers are often used in surgery to vaporize tissue.
How does it work? A single beam of light from the laser can select the brown discoloration in the skin. It passes without harming the top layer of skin. It hits the brown pigment cells and energy is released causing the melanosomes (a cell containing melanin the most common light-absorbing pigment) in the cell to break into tiny particles that are removed by the body. Some patients report feeling a slight stinging sensation during the treatment followed by some redness which usually goes away in 2-4 hours. This treatment is non-invasive, no needles, no cutting, no bruises and only minimal postoperative care (keep area clean, cover with Neosporin and protect your skin from the sun). When you leave the doctor’s office there is redness and then scabbing begins. You may want to have a good makeup foundation for coverage when you get home. You can resume normal activities but the areas that received laser treatment will be noticeable.
How long before I see results? Within 2 weeks the scabs will fall off. The new skin underneath will be pink for another 2 to 3 weeks then return to it’s normal pigment. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
Are there any adverse reactions? Do not pick or rub off the scabs otherwise a scar will results. Side effects may include hypo pigmentation (lightening of the treated skin) or hyper pigmentation (darkening of the treated skin).
Where do I get it? A doctor performs Laser Therapy. You can go to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
Cost: It depends on how many spots you need “lasered off”. But expect to spend $300 and up.
Note: There is a 90-95% success rate with Laser therapy. At least 80% of all common pigmented lesions are removed with one treatment.
Light Facial Therapy/Photo Facial
Process: Light Facial Therapy, often called a photo facial
What is it? A Photo Facial is a series of full-face gentle pulsed light treatments. Photo Facials can improve the appearance of sun damaged, aged skin and reduce facial redness.
How does it work? A Photo Facial produces an intense light that is emitted in a series of pulses over the face. The Photo Facial emits light over many wavelengths allowing the light to penetrate all levels of skin. Laser Therapy only produces a single wavelength of light. Once the light is delivered the targeted tissue absorbs the light's energy. Treatments take between 15 and 30 minutes. It is suggested that the patient receive three to five treatments, separated by a few weeks, to see the full effects.
How long before I see results? After one treatment, your skin will have a more even tone with a smoother look and feel. Brown spots and sunspots will fade. Fine lines and wrinkles start to decrease in size. Each progressive treatment you will notice continued results.
Are there any adverse reactions? There can be short-term discomfort during the actual treatment. There is usually additional redness immediately following treatment, lasting less than 24 hours for most people. Unlike Laser Therapy and Chemical Peels there are no scabs or down time with Photo Facials. And there is the bonus of some collagen tightening and remodeling occurs after multiple treatments.
Where do I get it? A plastic surgeon or dermatologist can perform Photo or Light Facials.
Will I need additional treatments? After the initial series of 3-5 treatments, maintenance sessions are often needed. Sun protection and proper caring for the skin will help diminish the likelihood of future treatments.
Cost: $500 per photo facial, 3-5 treatments are recommended.
Note: On an average 90% improvement is seen in most Photo Facial patients. Photo Facials also improves some mild acne scars, reduces large pores and dark circles around the eyes and helps reduce fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth.
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