Photofacials

Introduction to Photofacials

Intense pulsed light photorejuvenation systems are designed to combat the effects of the sun and aging in a soft and gentle way. Light energy is delivered through the skin and is picked up by redness and pigment in the face. The light energy is converted to thermal energy and will gradually remove facial redness, pigmented/brown spots, blemishes, facial flushing and spider veins, reduce pore size and soften fine lines. After 1-3 treatments you will notice a more even tone to your skin, less pigmentation and a smoother look and feel. Sunspots will start to fade and fine lines will soften over time. Patients with rosacea will see a reduction in facial redness.  The light system can also safely treat photo-damaged skin on the neck, chest and hands.

Who is a Candidate For Treatment?

The best candidates for treatment are patients with:

• sun damaged skin (brown spots)
• flushed faces due to acne and rosacea
• facial blood vessels
• irregular skin tone and large pores.

The face, neck, chest, arms, hands and legs can all be treated. Treatment cannot be done around the eyes. Patients with some medical conditions and pregnancy cannot be treated. Patients who have a tan cannot receive treatment until the tan has faded and are strongly advised to protect against the sun after treatment.

What Are Treatments Like?

Treatments are quick and easy.  A cooling gel is placed on the face. A pulsed light hand piece will be moved over the skin emitting a bright light that feels like a gentle “snapping sensation” on the skin. There is minimal discomfort.

What Should I Expect After My Treatment?

Pigmented lesions will darken over the next 1-2 days after treatment and then start to fade over 10-14 days. Vessels will generally undergo immediate graying or blanching and the surrounding skin may redden. The vessels then start to fade over the next 10-14 days. Most patients experience slight temporary redness and “sunburn” type feeling in the affected area after treatment. Very rare side effects include blisters, infection, crusting, undesired pigment changes, scarring and swelling.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The average number of treatments necessary is 5-8, spaced one month apart. The effects of treatment may not be noted until the second or third treatment.