Cosmetic
IPL
The Lumenis® One laser is an FDA-approved Intense Pulsed Light, or IPL, platform that offers fast, efficient treatment for a variety of common skin conditions. It is a particularly effective tool for treating uneven skin pigmentation, sun damage, and rosacea.
Using multiple light energies, the Lumenis One is noted for being able to perform multiple treatments on a patient during a single session. The treatment is considered safe for patients with light to medium skin tones, and can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, chest, neck, arms and hands. The majority of patients report that this procedure produces minor temporary discomfort.
The intense pulsed light Procedure
The Lumenis One precisely delivers pulses of light energy into the skin. The light energy emitted from the laser gently treats the condition at its origin point, beneath the surface of the skin, and uses heat to break down the underlying problem. Light is absorbed by the pigment in sunspots, and the blood in visible vessels, and converted to heat. The heat dissolves the cells that create the pigment, and shrinks the vessels. The IPL system features a single hand piece with several interchangeable filters, which range in size, enabling more than one treatment to be completed within a single session.
The interchangeable filters of the IPL device correct mild skin pigmentation issues, including rosacea, age spots, and telangiectasias. IPL treatments also help stimulate collagen production beneath the skin's surface, helping the skin to look revitalized and more youthful.
During the procedure, most patients experience a sensation similar to rubber bands being snapped on the skin. Topical anesthetic is applied prior to treatment in order to minimize potential discomfort. Moisturizer, sunscreen, and even foundation can be applied immediately after treatment.
The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to complete, but this will vary depending on the number of body areas and conditions being treated, in addition to the severity of the individual skin issues. In order to maximize the results, many patients decide to undergo a series of IPL treatment sessions, which can be performed four weeks apart.
Recovery from the ipl Procedure
There is little to no downtime associated with the IPL procedure, and patients are usually able to resume their normal activities while they heal. Exercise should be avoided for 24 hours following treatment, and some patients may need to apply a topical ointment to their skin for several days following the procedure. Using cold compresses or ice packs may also be helpful for alleviating any redness or discomfort, which will typically subside after a few days.
Sun spots tend to darken after treatment and shed from the skin within one to two weeks. Capillaries may take up to 14 days to appear less noticeable.
Risks of the ipl Procedure
Although laser skin treatment is considered safe for most patients and is typically performed with no long-term complications, there are certain risks associated with any type of medical procedure. While only occurring rarely, the risks may include:
- Mild scarring
- Changes in either skin tone or pigmentation
- Redness
- Skin blistering
- Burns
- Temporary swelling
- Pain
- Discomfort
Ipl pre & post-treatment care
Prior to Treatment
- Avoid aspirin and aspirin containing products for three days prior to procedure. This will help to minimize possible bruising.
- Discontinue use of Tetracycline, Retin A/Renova (including Dr. Moats anti-aging cream & firm and fade cream) three days prior to all treatments.
- Sun protection with sunblock, protective clothing and sunglasses are essential prior to, in between, and following your series of treatments. If you are currently tan or using self-tanning products, you will need to schedule your treatment when the tan fades.
- Apply topical cream 30 minutes prior to treatment.
Post Treatment
- Quick warm showers are recommended. If areas treated are other than the facial area, hot baths are not advised for 24 hours.
- Aerobic exercise, use of saunas and hot tubs should also be avoided for 24 hours.
- If the skin is broken or a blister appears, apply an antibiotic ointment and notify us. The area should be kept lubricated to prevent crusting or scabbing of tissue.
- A cold compress, aloe vera, or any other cooling preparation may be used to ease temporary discomfort.
- Prolonged sun exposure is to be avoided for 4 weeks before and after treatment. A total sunblock, not a sunscreen, should be applied. Sun exposure may cause certain complications, such as blistering and/or hyperpigmentation.
- No waxing to the treated areas for one month after treatment.
- Makeup can be applied as long as the skin is not broken. Makeup can also serve to protect the skin from sun exposure.
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