VASCULAR LESIONS

Treatment is suitable for most people. Best results are obtained for those with fair skin, and there is less chance of side effects.

Do not use perfume products, makeup, deodorant, creams, oils on the relevant area 24 hours before each treatment.

Do not wax, bleach, pluck, or have electrolysis for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment. Shaving the area is okay!

Avoid exfoliation treatments or products containing retinol or strong AHA fruit acids 1 week prior to treatment.

Avoid wearing tight clothing when attending treatment

Avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks prior to treatment.

No false tan for at least 2 weeks before treatments

Use a minimum of SPF 30 on exposed areas as laser cannot be applied on an active tan. But do not use sunscreen 24 hours prior to treatments.

Drinking coffee an hour or two before treatment may cause a heightened sensation whilst treating.

Light energy is applied to the skin where it is readily absorbed by blood vessels, heating them to a point where they are destroyed. Following treatment, the vessels quickly clear as they are reabsorbed by the body, leaving little or no trace of the original lesion.

Most red skin lesions, including facial thread veins, rosacea, spider naevi, and port wine stains, can be treated very successfully. Depending on the lesions, leg vessels can also respond well to treatment.

The light applicator is placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated. During treatment, protective eyewear will be provided.

Treatments typically take from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the type and size of lesion.

Treatment is mildly uncomfortable but there is no need for anaesthesia and the procedure is actually quite quick. Sensations vary but most describe it as a very quick hot pin prick.

After treatment, the area may feel warm for a few hours. Rarely, some delicate skin areas such as the cheeks or décolleté can be red and slightly swollen for up to 48 hours. Though very rare, there is a chance a small blister may form and there could be temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.

Typically, 3 to 5 treatments are needed for optimum results, though small lesions may clear in just a single session. Repeat treatments are spaced every 4 to 6 weeks.