- Reduces or eliminates dilated, unsightly red capillaries
- Eliminates embarrassing, uncomfortable flushing and redness
- Achieves smoother skin and smaller pores
- Reduces dark circles around the eyes
- Reduces fine lines around eyes and mouth
90 minutes - $150-$350 depends on type used – Series of 6 (buy 5 get one free)
There are two types of photofacial: Hot Laser and Cold Laser. The treatment is used to stimulate collagen, treat pigmentation and distended capillaries. Our clinical esthetician will determine the right modality for your skin type. Post care regimen will be given by the clinical esthetician after the treatment.
What is “Pulsed Light Facial Rejuvenation (Epifacial)?”
It is a procedure which utilizes either of two different laser-like devices, Epilight or Photoderm manufactured by ESC Medical Systems. The series of full face, pulsed light treatments improves the appearance of sun damaged and aged skin, as well as reducing facial and neck redness and flushing. It results in a more youthful-looking skin with improved visible appearance brought about with little or no down time. It can also be used to treat chest, arms and legs.
How does it work?
An intense light is emitted in a series of pulses over the face at intervals of three weeks for a series of 4 to 6 treatments. Intense pulsed light is different from laser light. It is light emitted over many different wavelengths allowing the light to penetrate to all levels of the skin where abnormal, easily dilated vessels can be found. Because of the unique nature of emission of the intense pulse light, even the tiniest of vessels can be treated. Lasers emit only a single wavelength and are limited in depth of penetration and what they can treat.
How often will I need to be treated with intense pulsed light?
After your first series of 4 to 6 treatments, it is possible that a followup will be necessary in 2 or more years. Caring for your skin properly will help diminish the likelihood of future treatments. Your technician will help you with a skin care regimen.
Are there conditions that won't respond to pulse light facial rejuvenation?
It will not help frown lines or deep expression lines such as forehead and between the brows. It will not help deep skin folds or sagging skin or eliminate puffiness around the eyes. It is not a replacement or substitute for face-lift.
What conditions would be contraindications to this procedure?
Patients with connective tissue disease or autoimmune disorders, pregnancy, recently sun-tanned skin or sun exposed skin that may be exposed for a few weeks following the treatment. Accutane patients must be off Accutane for one year. The procedure does help acne with pustules, but not cysts. It also helps the red flushing acne leaves behind. If you are prone to fever blisters, an anti-herpes medication can be taken before and for a few days after the treatment.
What side effects should I expect?
Side effects are mild and of short duration consisting fo short-term discomfort during the actual treatment (feels somewhat like a rubberband snap). There will be additional redness immediately following treatment, usually lasting less than 24 hours. On rare occasions it may last up to 3 days. Mild blistering and bruising is possible, but rarely occurs and clears in 4 to 6 days. Post treatment pigmentation may be noted on occasion, but it is highly treatable and rare. If this is a factor, it will be discussed with your physician during your consultation. At that time, you will be started on a product that will prevent and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation before your first treatment, plus it also will help with the de-aging process to even out skin tone faster. Some swelling of the face for 3 to 5 days may occur and is most common in severely sun-damaged skin and/or smokers due to reduced quality of connective tissue around the blood vessels. To date, there has never been a scar or an infection of the skin noted after a treatment, though the possibility is there.
How do I get started?
Set you appointment for a consultation during which you will complete a general medical questionnaire on the nature of your skin. You will be tested to properly evaluate the correct settings for your skin condition and skin type. These parameters are stored in a database and your chart for future reference. All questions must be asked and answered to your satisfaction prior to treatment. Pre-treatment and post-treatment photos will be taken for your file. An informed consent and photgraphic permit must be signed.
How long does each treatment take?
Approximately 30 minutes, unless you are extremely sensitive and require topical anesthesia. In that case, you must arrive 45 to 60 minutes early to allow adequate time for the penetration of the topical anesthesia. Skin must be clean and men must be clean shaven. Herpatic lesions or bacterial infections would mean the treatment will be canceled until complete healing takes place. Eye shields will be applied to protect the eyes. A cool, soothing gel will be place on the skin prior to treatment, the operator will coach you by counting to three prior to each pulse. This helps offset the tendency to startle because of the light flashes. Then you will be given additional post treatment instructions.
Can the same results be accomplished with chemical peels or microdermabrasion?
No, but Intense Pulsed Facial Rejuvenation can be combined with microdermabrasion for greatier effectiveness and faster results in achieving greatly improved skin condition and appearance.
