IPL, VBeam, Blu U, Photodynamic Therapy
Did you know that stubborn sunspots, unwanted hair, unsightly veins, freckles and even warts can be treated with lasers?
Different types of lasers are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, birthmarks, growths and cosmetic complaints, but no single laser is currently capable of treating all skin conditions. Some lasers are considered non-ablative (without a blade/non-wounding) or simply use a light source. Dr. Peggy Fuller will carefully evaluate your individual condition and suggest the appropriate type of laser system to achieve the best results.
Photodynamic Therapy
Non-ablative (non-burning) lasers are also used in combination with photodynamic therapy. Special topical enhancements improve the ability of the light from the laser to pass through the skin. Advances in photodynamic therapy include the use of Levulan® Kerastick®, a specific topical enhancement, which has been effective for treating a variety of dermatological conditions, including pre-skin cancers, rosacea, acne, pigmented lesions, and recently, non-melanoma skin cancers.
Description: A light-based treatment that penetrates the skin without visible wounding to the skin surface to treat sun damage, age spots, irregular pigmentation, spider veins, rosacea, acne, and unwanted hair.
Length of Procedure: Several minutes to three hours, depending on the size of the area to be treated.
In/Out Patient: Outpatient.
Anesthesia: None required.
Recovery Time: Dependent on the procedure.
Treatment Frequency: Several sessions may be needed to achieve desired results.
Risks: Redness, swelling, and/or skin sensitivity may occur.
Duration of Results: Varies by the procedure. Follow-up treatments may be necessary to maintain results.
Five Essential Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist Regarding Non-Ablative Laser treatment:
1. What is your experience with different types of lasers and energy-based treatments?
2. How many treatments will I require to achieve my results?
3. Is this particular laser safe for my skin type? Will I experience changes in skin tone?
4. What type of recovery will I require?
5. Will you treat me yourself, or will it be a member of your staff? What are his or her qualifications?
Fast fact about lasers:
When the laser light is directed at skin tissue (the target), its light energy is absorbed by water or pigments found in the skin. Target #1: Water is found in large amounts in all living cells. Target #2: Pigments of the skin include hemoglobin, a protein that makes blood red, and Target #3: Melanin, the tan or brown colored pigment. All three targets absorb laser light of different colors. Therefore, different conditions are treated with different kinds of lasers.