Contrary to what some believe, lasers are not just used for laser hair removal. Different types of lasers have specific range of utility, depending on its wavelength and penetration.
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we utilize the VBeam © Perfecta for non-hair removal related procedures while we use the GentleMax Pro © for laser hair removal procedures as well as other procedures.
VBEAM © PERFECTA
The VBeam © Perfecta is the gold standard pulse dye laser. This system is a safe way to treat vascular, pigmented, and certain non-pigmented lesions, including:
- Facial Veins
- Scars
- Birthmarks
- Rosacea
- Acne Scars
- Red Bumps
- Poikiloderma: most frequently seen on the chest or neck, is characterized by red pigmentation and is associated with sun damage
- Port wine stains: discoloration of the skin caused by a capillary malformation in the skin
- Leg veins
- Stretch marks
- Warts
- Psoriasis
A pulsed dye laser (PDL) such as the VBeam © delivers an intense light to the affected skin area to achieve clinical results. The targeted blood vessels or pigmented area absorbs the light, treating the condition. Factors such as the age, color, type of lesion, and location will determine if the procedure is effective.
What happens before, during, and after treatment?
Prior to treatment, the correct diagnosis needs to be made by the clinician to avoid mistreatment. If you have a history of cold sores, that would need to be addressed during your consultation as well, because laser energy may activate the virus. Patients who are pregnant, have taken an acne medication like Accutane within the last six months, or have taken certain medications including blood thinners, should not have treatments with the VBeam© laser.
During the procedure, which could take anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes, you will wear the proper eye protection. Typically, there is mild to no discomfort associated with this procedure; however, depending on the affected area size, the treatment could be more intense and could call for topical anesthetic.
During treatment, a hand piece is placed against the skin as the laser energy is delivered. Most patients describe the pain as a rubber band snap against the skin. In addition, to protect the skin a Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) is used, which will spray a cool mist across the skin.
After the procedure, the treatment area will appear redder than normal and swollen for a few hours. Bruising, called purpura, may occur if the large blood vessels, port wine stains, warts or scars are treated. If bruising does occur, it typically will disappear within three to five days.
Post-treatment care requires sun protection to reduce the risk of post inflammatory pigment changes. Other instructions will be provided after the procedure is performed.
Are the results of the VBeam © Perfecta procedure permanent?
It is important to talk with your doctor about your expected outcomes after this treatment. The question of permanency is dependent on your lifestyle and the condition being treated. For example, if you are being treated for sun spots, but continue to go out in the sun without proper protection, the sun spots can return.
To learn more about cosmetic procedures like the VBeam © Perfecta, download our Guide to Cosmetic Procedures.
GENTLEMAX PRO ©
The GentleMax Pro© can remove unwanted hair, as well as lighten sun spots, and treat facial and leg veins safely. This device uses laser technology to deliver an intense light to the affected skin area, delivering therapeutic heat to the targeted area.
What happens before, during, and after treatment?
Before the treatment happens, it is important to talk with your doctor about any history of cold sores because the laser energy may activate the virus. Prophylactic antiviral may be prescribed before the procedure. It is imperative to avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment to avoid complications.
A patient may also be asked to avoid grooming the area being treated including plucking, electrolysis, or wax for six weeks prior to treatment, although shaving is allowed.
Right before the procedure, which could take anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour, the patient’s skin should be clean-shaven and cleared of any oils, makeup, self-tanning products, and moisturizers.
Typically, there is mild to no discomfort associated with this procedure; however, depending on the affected area size, the treatment could be more intense and could call for topical anesthetic. During treatment, the GentleMax Pro© will also deliver protection to the skin through the Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD), which will spray a cool mist across the skin.
Side effects may include redness, swelling, and bruising. These side effects should resolve within a few days. Complications are rare but might include pigmentary changes, superficial burns, and very rarely, scarring.
Post-treatment care will be discussed with the patient before their procedure, as well as after.
Are the results of the GentleMax Pro© procedure permanent?
It is important to talk with your doctor about your expected outcomes after this treatment. The question of permanency is dependent on the condition being treated and the lifestyle of the patient. For example, certain hormones may interfere with results. Regardless, several treatment cycles are required with the spacing between treatments dependent on the body area being treated.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?
Whether you are coming in for sun spot removal or laser hair removal, it is important to discuss with your doctor your expectations for either procedure.
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we recognize that your choice of dermatologist is driven by the doctor’s competency and personality. When searching for dermatological treatment, you need a dermatologist who is experienced, understanding, and supportive.
Schedule an appointment with our providers to discuss your treatment plan.
