What is Photofacial Treatment ?
A Photofacial treatment is a series of gentle pulsed light treatments developed to improve the appearance of sun damaged and aged skin, as well as reduce redness and flushing, resulting in more youthful-looking skin. Photofacial treatments consistently and predictably improve the texture, tone and color of the skin with little to no down time.
How does the treatment work ?
An intense light is emitted in a series of gentle pulses over the skin's surface. This special light produces energy over many wavelengths. The light penetrates through all levels of the skin where abnormal vessels are found.
What is the role of Photofacial in the treatment of Rosacea ?
Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition characterized by redness, dilated blood vessels and often developing pustules and swelling. Blushing is its most significant characteristic. It has long been noted in medical literature that blushing seems to increase or worsen the condition. No successful treatment existed previously that could minimize or stop the blushing. Photofacial intense pulsed light therapy controls this embarrassing problem by decreasing the frequency and severity of Rosacea. Some Rosacea patients are even able to stop their antibiotics and topical steroid creams they have taken for years.
Are there any other conditions that can be treated with Photofacial ?
Yes, Photofacial treatments will also help patients suffering from photo aging of the skin, pigmentation from sun exposure (age spots), irregular skin texture, reduce large pores and dark circles around the eyes and helps reduce fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth.
How often will I need additional treatments ?
After your initial series of 3-5 treatments, it is recommended to have follow-up treatments every six to twelve months to maintain your results. Your provider at Allure MedSpa will recommend the number of treatments necessary and provide you with knowledge to decrease the likelihood of future treatments.
Are there any contraindications to this procedure ?
Photofacial is not recommended for patients with connective tissue disease or autoimmune disorders. It is also not recommended during pregnancy, or for tanned skin. It cannot be used on patients taking Accutane or for six months after stopping Accutane. The procedure is not usually done on patients with active cysts and or large pustules. The same is true for highly active rosacea. Most photosensitive medications such as antibiotics, anti anxiety, sulfa drugs, birth control pills and antihypertensive medications are not contraindicated. Caution must be used in patients who are prone to fever blisters on the face. An antiviral medication can be taken prior to the treatments to avoid this problem.
Are there any side effects ?
Most side effects are mild and short lived. These can consist of discomfort during the actual treatment. There is usually additional redness directly following treatment, lasting less than 24 hours in most people. On rare occasions it may last up to three days. Mild blistering and bruising is possible, but usually clears quickly. Post treatment pigmentation has been noted, but is highly treatable and very rare. Even rarer is a decrease in pigmentation of the skin after treatments, and this also clears in time as well. Swelling of the face occasionally happens and is most common in severely sun damaged skin due to reduced quality of connective tissue around the blood vessels.
Who can administer the treatments ?
The State Law of Florida requires a license of Registered Nurse or above to provide this treatment.
What are the advantages of Photofacial ?
You can have healthy, blush-free skin with fewer lines and a fresher, more youthful appearance with no down time from work or play; although we recommend no excessive exercising, hot showers or air travel until the next day. You can usually go out the same day or the next day without any problem. No procedure has ever been developed that can accomplish so much with such little risk and no down time. Dr. Patrick Bitter, Sr. implemented the procedure after years of research and development. Dr. Bitter Sr. personally trained Dr. Mackay. Photofacial treatments were developed for the active lifestyles where time and appearance are important.
Will Photofacial treatments help my acne scars ?
Certain more shallow scars may improve with Photofacial treatments, but deeper acnes scarring will not be helped. Fraxel Laser Treatment may be indicated for deep acne scars.
