Laser skin treatment – Doctor lead, boutique cosmetic skincare clinic https://www.specialistskinsolutions.com.au Sat, 09 May 2020 08:49:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.1 How you can get rid of facial spider veins [Telangiectasias] https://www.specialistskinsolutions.com.au/facial-spider-veins/ Thu, 06 Feb 2020 12:34:36 +0000 https://www.specialistskinsolutions.com.au/?p=7650 Like any other imperfection affecting the complexion, telangiectasias can be frustrating, even distressing for the sufferer. Appearing as red blotches, or even thin tributaries close-up, these broken capillaries […]

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Like any other imperfection affecting the complexion, telangiectasias can be frustrating, even distressing for the sufferer.

Appearing as red blotches, or even thin tributaries close-up, these broken capillaries lying just underneath the skin cannot be treated with regular facial therapies. In fact, some skin care treatments, such as chemical peels, could actually make the problem worse.

Get Rid Red Facial Veins by Dr Bernard Beldholm

So, what is telangiectasia?

More generally known as spider veins, telangiectasias are actually enlarged blood vessels sitting beneath the surface of the epidermis. They are particularly common around the nose, cheek, and chin area and often bruise-like in appearance.

Both males and females can suffer from this particular venous disorder which occurs at any age. Though it’s often more visible in the fairer-skinned among us. Spider veins also seem to be more prevalent in people affected by rosacea, acne or even sensitive skin and appear to worsen as we age.

The condition compares to varicose veins in that both are a type of venous disease. However, the larger varicose veins are often associated with physical manifestations such as leg pain. Varicose veins can also have some severe consequences to long term health if untreated.

  • Telangiectasias, or spider veins, are small, damaged blood vessels
  • Spider veins are generally not painful or harmful
  • In some circumstances, they may be prone to bleeding
  • These tiny thread veins themselves can present as blue, purple, or red thin lines, webs, or branches.
  • It’s particularly common to notice spider veins around the nose, chin and cheeks
  • The ankles, legs and even the abdominal area can also be affected.
  • Treatment for spider veins is purely for cosmetic purposes.

These dilated veins are not crucial to the circulatory system and, in fact, the body establishes its own alternative route for the blood to travel to the heart. This means treatment will not interfere with or damage the circulation. In fact, we often find that treatment actually improves this function.

There is a range of treatment options available to remove or reduce the appearance of spider veins. In this article, we’ll analyse the two most common procedures that deal with permanent removal, look at some of the causes and tell you how to help prevent telangiectasia in the future.

Red Facial Veins by Dr Bernard Beldholm

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Why do we get spider veins and is there a way to prevent them?

While there’s no guaranteed method in the prevention of spider veins, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a proper diet and adequate physical exercise goes a long way.

However, if you’ve already noticed broken capillaries on your complexion, you must discuss this with your skincare practitioner at your next appointment. Some of your usual therapies may need to be avoided and suitable alternatives recommended. And though some treatments may help with the redness, once you have telangiectasia, you’ll likely need specific strategies to eliminate them.

The fact is that these broken blood vessels can be caused by a multitude of things.

Some of which we have no control over and some that we do:

  • Genetics,
  • Extreme weather
  • Excessive drinking and smoking
  • Trauma to the skin (which can include UV damage or even excessively squeezing pimples)

But because many factors influence the formation of spider veins, it makes sense that there are some things you can do to help prevent them.

  • One of the most common reasons people get thread veins is through excessive sun exposure. We know that daily sunscreen application is a crucial tool in preventing skin cancer and sunburn. Still, too much sun also makes us more susceptible to spider veins, particularly around the face. Sun protection is vital for everyone but is particularly essential for those with a paler complexion.
  • People often assume that tanning will hide the appearance of spider veins. In fact, it will likely exacerbate the problem. When we expose our body to UV rays, collagen breaks down, causing capillaries to get thinner and spread out. That’s why we highly recommend that our clients take particular care to protect the face from the sun’s rays. Wearing hats and sunglasses are an essential part of sun protection. Still, we urge all of our clients to avoid tanning beds entirely.
  • Simply standing erect while blood travels upwards to the heart can be a challenge for our body. Our circulatory system requires calf and thigh muscles to work efficiently. Using our leg muscles properly helps pump blood up through our body, which is why walking is often endorsed as a simple way to improve circulation.
  • To prevent the blood from flowing in the wrong directions, valves in the leg veins only open upwards. When these valves stop working correctly, spider veins and varicose veins can form.
  • Both obesity and occupations involving prolonged standing can influence the development of telangiectasias, so regular physical activity also plays a part in prevention. Specialised venous support stockings may also help prevent dilated blood vessels from developing in some people.
  • Similarly, pregnancy can also restrict blood flow in the abdominal area contributing to both varicose and spider veins. And again, exercise plays a vital role in prevention here. Also, try elevating the legs periodically or even consider maternity support stockings.
  • The way we manage our skincare routine can also encourage the formation of these red blotches on the face and body. So being generally more gentle when it comes to our daily cleansing routine can be a preventative measure. Avoid washing in water that’s too hot or excessively cold and visit your skincare technician regularly for professional treatments and advice when it comes to the complexion.

What are the most conventional clinical treatments, and what will the results be?

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy by Dr Bernard Beldholm

Sclerotherapy is the traditional treatment for both varicose and spider veins. In fact, it has been the standard procedure for spider veins for decades. This surgical procedure involves the injection of a solution into the blood vessel itself. This sclerosing liquid targets the wall of the artery, which over several weeks, will mostly fade away. Larger reticular veins will often underlie spider veins, so these vessels are usually treated too.

  • Compression bandages or stockings may need to be worn for some time following sclerotherapy for spider veins.
  • Most patients can expect a vast improvement in the appearance of the veins following treatment. However, there may be some initial bruising. Recovery following this type of surgery may be gradual, and it can take up to several months to see the final results.
  • Initially, there may be a red, raised areas at the injection sites though these will generally disappear within a day. Bruising may also occur at the needle site, but this should be gone in a few weeks.
  • Aching in the legs for the first day or two following treatments may also occur but is usually relieved by regular, gentle walks.

Yellow light laser – Nd: YAG laser

These days, laser treatment is also available. The Cutera® Nd: YAG laser is highly effective and safe to use on the legs and face and without the use of needles. This eliminates much of the bruising and redness associated with sclerotherapy. This particular procedure is highly efficient anywhere on the body and is perfect for sensitive areas such as the complexion. It can also effectively treat port-wine stain birthmarks, rosacea and other vascular conditions. This advanced treatment is beneficial and can be done out of the hospital with an almost immediate return to normal activities.

The laser itself works by delivering a pulse of energy which heats the blood inside the vein. The machine emits a high intensity, narrow beam of light, and is a proven technology. Yellow light lasers are now commonly used to manage a variety of vascular abnormalities.

  • These pulses of light energy to treat the deeper tissues beneath the skin, targeting the large, harder vascular structures. The abnormal vein is destroyed and readily reabsorbed by the body without damaging the sweat glands, hair follicles and connective tissues.
  • As the beam is projected onto the skin, the irregular dilated blood vessels sustain damage. These capillaries will heal over the next couple of months, resulting in narrower vessels. Making them much less visible.
  • Because the healthy skin between vessels is undamaged, the risk of scarring is minimal.
  • The laser does not produce rays identified as being harmful to patients. And there is no reason to expect any risk of developing skin cancer in lasered areas in the future. Though specially developed eye protection is used whenever the laser is in operation because the eyes are vulnerable.
  • Facial telangiectasia, port-wine stains, spider naevi, cherry angiomas and blood vessels associated with scarring can also benefit from this treatment. Though facial spider veins are typically the most common vascular problems treated with this technology.

What to expect with The Cutera® Nd: YAG laser

Ordinarily, a photograph of the affected area will be taken immediately before the procedure. Then once the client has been prepared, appropriate eye protection is provided. If laser work is undertaken on the face, lead eye guards will be used, and goggles may be provided for treatment on other areas of the body.

Is it painful and what type of pain management will be available?

  • There may be an easily tolerated sharp, pricking during the treatment. However, a cooling agent is applied before each laser pulse.
  • Feelings of discomfort will vary between each client and depends on the patient’s pain threshold.
  • Your initial consultation with the medical practitioner will include a discussion about pain relief. Though, the usual advice is to take an over the counter pain medicine an hour before treatment.
  • Post-treatment, ice will likely be needed to relieve any discomfort and to help reduce inflammation. And expect the skin to be red and swollen for a few hours. These side effects don’t last long, and though you may have some mild swelling the next day, it will likely be minimal. In some instances, there may be a change of slight bruising.

Aftercare following laser treatment of facial spider veins

Specialist Skin Solutions Shaping Neck and Jaw

The broken vessels themselves will begin to shrink or will have wholly disappeared immediately following laser treatment. And while they may reappear a day or two later, they will disappear permanently over the following six to eight weeks.

Facial telangiectasia generally requires two to three treatments, as discussed by your consultant. In some instances, a patient needs ongoing laser therapy, for example, if a birthmark is being removed. This may mean every couple of months over a year.

Depending on the cause of the vascular condition, these broken capillaries may reappear sometime after the initial laser treatment. While not uncommon, particularly with sun damage, acne or rosacea, these spider veins are usually only minor and can be retreated.

There are some things you can do following laser treatment to promote healing and best outcomes following surgery:

  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours following the procedure.
  • Take sun protection seriously post-treatment to maintain long term results. Generally, that means using a sunscreen 50 + daily.
  • Make topical Vitamin C part of your regular skincare routine to help maintain results and speed up recovery.
  • Directly following any procedure for facial spider veins, patients must avoid facial scrubs/ microdermabrasion or harsh skin treatments for 2-4 weeks or as advised by your specialist.

Things to consider before any procedure

Facial Procedure at Dr Bernard Beldholm Clinic

When considering treatment for facial spider veins, or any other types of venous disease, seek out remedies that offer medical-grade, and industry-approved laser technology. Guaranteeing your safety and delivering the best results.

When choosing a consultant, be sure to undergo an individual and thorough interview before treatment. Make the most of this consultation by asking lots of questions regarding the procedure and listening to your practitioner’s instructions and advice.

Do your own research too. The more informed you are, the more likely you’ll understand the best therapies available to you. And make sure you feel entirely confident with your specialist and their support crew.

The best treatment options for you may include a combination of therapies for the most effective results. But it’s practising proper home care managed by a doctor-led cosmetic clinic that is the vital element for the best long term outcomes.

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10 Key Facts About How Laser Genesis Works https://www.specialistskinsolutions.com.au/10-key-facts-about-how-laser-genesis-works/ Fri, 25 Oct 2019 07:24:44 +0000 https://www.specialistskinsolutions.com.au/sss-new/?p=7441 You want to improve the color, texture, and tone of your skin, all while fighting signs of aging. Lasers are perfect for that. The trouble is that there […]

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You want to improve the color, texture, and tone of your skin, all while fighting signs of aging. Lasers are perfect for that. The trouble is that there are so many different kinds of skincare lasers. If you are having a hard time choosing which laser is right for you, let’s talk about one that can treat a host of skin issues all in a fast, easy lunchtime treatment. It’s Laser Genesis by Cutera.

This gentle, quick, and painless lunchtime treatment is excellent for anti-aging, scars, pigmentation, skin rejuvenation, redness, and so much more. It has been proven to help with contour, texture, and color of the skin. (2) Patients are loving the results, and we think you will, too.

Ready to revive your skin? Here are ten key facts you should know about how Laser Genesis works.

laser genesis treatment Specialist Skin Solutions

What is Laser Genesis?

Laser Genesis is a non-invasive laser treatment that uses micro-pulse technology. It works by targeting deeper layers of skin. The goal of this laser is to improve the structure and appearance of the skin’s surface over time.

Laser technology should be performed by a trained dermal nurse like Lea Barclay, who has been helping patients rejuvenate their skin with lasers for years. She is highly trained in Laser Genesis and other skin treatments, so you can be sure that you will get the best results possible. You do not want to go to an untrained aesthetician for laser treatments. Laser technology is a special skill set that needs to be done correctly.

Why do we need it?

Even the most youthful skin ages eventually. Lea explains the basics behind skin aging. Environmental factors are the first factor. Sun exposure is the biggest offender. Solar rays break down collagen and elastin more quickly than would naturally occur. (3) That can lead to weak skin with fine lines and wrinkles.

UV rays also trigger melanin production, which is what makes skin get tan. Unfortunately, many people don’t produce melanin evenly. Age spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation can crop up when there is too much melanin in one area. Air pollution has also been linked to dark marks, so city dwellers have to be extra careful. (4)

There are a number of other factors that contribute to skin aging. Poor health, certain medications, chronic dry skin, and genetics also come into play. Even for people in perfect health, it is natural for skin to slow down collagen production with age. This is especially so after age 30. Pair that with environmental damage, and it is no surprise that we begin to see early signs of skin aging in the 30s.

Fine lines and wrinkles can be difficult to get rid of. Facial flushing and broken capillaries can also give the skin a red, uneven appearance. Scars from accidents or surgery, discoloration from old blemishes, and poor skin quality can also improve with laser treatments. Laser Genesis is perfect for taking care of all these things in one treatment.

Benefits of Laser Genesis

Aging skin is no match for Laser Genesis. In Lea’s experience with Laser Genesis, it will soften wrinkles and help large pores appear less visible. Over a period of time, the skin becomes stronger, healthier, and more rejuvenated with a signature glow, thanks to collagen induction.

It is especially great for fine lines around the delicate eye area, which can be a dead giveaway of age. Genesis laser is ideal for patients who want to softening the appearance of crow’s feet without turning to injectables like Botox.

Patients with diffuse redness, rosacea, and dark spots will also see improvement. It is especially good for skin on the cheeks, which tend to get red easily. Even an area as small as the ears can be treated. Men can sometimes get redness on the ears as they age, and Laser Genesis can help take care of that also.

The face is the most popular treatment area, followed by the neck and chest. You can view before and after pictures from a medical study here.

Finally, scars will lighten over time as the laser helps heal and reduce scar redness. That is good news for patients with dark marks leftover from acne. It can also make a big change in the redness you see with surgical scars. It normally takes the redness from a surgical incision up to a year to lighten on its own. Laser Genesis does a great job of reducing scar redness after surgery even faster.

How does Laser Genesis work?

Laser Genesis may be the most important photorejuvenation breakthrough since IPL. It is unique because it combines heating of the microvasculature with gentle heating of the dermis to create better skin texture, reduced pore size, and less redness and wrinkle depth. (1)

The laser works by stimulating collagen and elastin production in the dermis, (3) which is the second layer of your skin. Collagen and elastin work together to give skin structure, elasticity, and a youthful appearance. They are vitally important for a healthy, resilient complexion. They are also important for healing and preventing many skin problems.

Laser Genesis is designed to stimulate fibroblasts in the skin, Lea explains. Fibroblasts are like collagen powerhouses. It actually awakens your skin’s potential for making its own collagen. This leads to a more youthful complexion as the skin becomes stronger and learns to repair itself. Lea works the laser over the treatment area, working on one section of skin at a time to ensure no areas are missed.

There are two design components that make Laser Genesis work so well. They are depth and pulsing.

Depth

The first part of what makes Laser Genesis effective is the depth of the laser’s reach. Depth is also known as the wavelength. The wavelengths penetrate to the dermal layer, where collagen and elastin activity happens. That is what makes Laser Genesis different than surface treatments like topical anti-aging creams, for example. They work on the surface of your skin only, while Laser Genesis corrects the root of the problem.

Pulsing

Pulsing is a very important part of what makes Laser Genesis work. It uses warm light to heat the skin, which is good for healing. However, if you heat the skin too much, it can result in a burning feeling or discomfort. Laser Genesis prevents this by using a pulse laser that allows the skin moments to cool off so there is no pain or burning.

This allows the laser to penetrate the skin to get that deeper layer collagen induction without damaging the outermost layer of skin.2 That makes it extremely safe.

Laser Genesis can do up to 10,000 pulses in a single treatment session. Lea explains that the pulses act as a signal to trick the skin into thinking there is damage. Skin will always try to repair itself if it thinks there is damage happening. By creating a number of pulses in the area, the skin cells start to wake and and produce collagen to repair itself.

Of course, the pulses of Laser Genesis are carefully regulated, so you skin is not actually getting hurt. As the collagen production ramps up over the next few weeks, your skin becomes stronger. This reduces fine lines, improves the look of your pores, creates a better skin texture, and helps redness disappear. Almost any skin type will be rewarded from having Laser Genesis treatments.

Laser Genesis pain and downtime

Unlike other lasers, Laser Genesis is not painful. That is something that can cause patients to stray from their treatment regimen. If it hurts, they are not going to look forward to appointments. Skipping sessions means the skin isn’t getting the maximum benefit. That can mean a lot of money lost, especially if you paid for treatment sessions up front and don’t wish to continue because of pain.

With Laser Genesis, that won’t be an issue. There is absolutely no pain and zero recovery time. Most patients describe it as a prickly sensation at most, but it is certainly not painful. Even sensitive skin types can tolerate treatment easily. You will feel a bit of heat from the laser, but it doesn’t get to the point where it is hot. Many patients even enjoy the comforting feeling of warmth on the skin during treatments. Compared to other lasers, Laser Genesis is a breeze to get through.

The best part is you will be able to go back to work or continue your day straight afterward. That means you can return to the office or go grocery shopping without anyone knowing you just had a laser session. That is a big benefit since other lasers can leave skin raw and red for some time. With Laser Genesis, you don’t have to suffer to get great results. Patients love that.

How long does each Laser Genesis session usually take?

Laser sessions can vary in duration. Laser Genesis is fairly quick. It can take as little as half an hour to complete a session, but it depends on the size of the area that is being treated. Multiple areas can be treated during a single session. Allow a bit more time if you want to do several areas. It can take up to an hour to do the face, neck, and chest or decolletage, for example.

Of course, you can split it up into shorter sessions if you have to get back to work. It just means you’ll need to come in for more sessions to do all the areas you want to target with Laser Genesis. That makes it a practical solution for busy professionals. For those who can take the full hour, you can treat all these areas at once.

How long to see results from Laser Genesis?

After the third treatment, most patients with diffuse redness or rosacea will begin to see some results, according to Lea. Some patients get early results after the first treatment, but normally it takes more time to see the final outcome of treatments.

A series of four to six sessions are recommended. It does take time for collagen remodeling to happen, so you have to give it time to work its magic.

When you go in for a consultation, you should be given a treatment plan with your recommended course of therapy. Sessions can be repeated every two weeks, but it is okay to wait a bit longer between sessions if needed. You do not want to wait too long in between sessions, however, since each treatment builds on the last. Keeping your treatment schedule consistent helps maximize your results.

Who should not get Laser Genesis?

Most patients are eligible for Laser Genesis, but there are limitations. Pregnant and lactating women are usually advised not to get any unnecessary medical or cosmetic procedures. Patients who are prescribed Roaccutanes for severe acne or people using topical skin cancer creams are also not ideal candidates for laser.

Safety and side effects

Laser Genesis has few downsides. It is great because it is well tolerated and there is no downtime or pain. If you have super sensitive skin and are concerned for any reason, you may ask to do a test patch. Lea always checks it on the back of her own hand before beginning a treatment just to ensure the setting is correct and everything is operating as it should. It is always a good idea for the practitioner to do a safety check of the machine before each session.

Combining treatments

Laser Genesis is great on its own. However, patients may be able to improve their results with combination therapy. Laser Genesis works well in conjunction with other treatments. The best results always come from having a tailored treatment plan, especially if you have multiple skin concerns or if you want to supercharge the results of the service with add-ons. Peels, LED light therapy, and enzyme treatments may be added depending on your specific skin concerns.

Chemical peels can make you skin look and feel great. They have been around for a long time for a good reason, they work! find out how. find out more about chemical peels in our comprehensive guide: “Why chemical peels are great for your skin”.

References

  1. “Laser Genesis Skin Rejuvenation.” Cutera, www.medicalsintl.com/Content/uploads/Division/140620092112068~Laser Genesis-DATASHEET.pdf .
  2. Somani, Ally-Khan. “Effect of Dermal Rejuvenation on the UVB Response of Geriatric Skin – Full Text View.” Effect of Dermal Rejuvenation on the UVB Response of Geriatric Skin – Full Text View – ClinicalTrials.gov, clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02090894.
  3. Tanaka, Yohei, Kiyoshi Matsuo, and Shunsuke Yuzuriha. “Objective Assessment of Skin Rejuvenation Using near-Infrared 1064-Nm Neodymium: YAG Laser in Asians.” Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2011, p. 123., doi:10.2147/ccid.s22841.
  4. Mancebo, S. E., and S. Q. Wang. “Recognizing the Impact of Ambient Air Pollution on Skin Health.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, vol. 29, no. 12, 2015, pp. 2326–2332., doi:10.1111/jdv.13250.

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