Is laser hair removal painful?
No. During the procedure( IPL), a slight, momentary stinging sensation may be felt, but not pain. When NdYAg is used - and only for skin type 6, a certain discomfort can be felt.
Is laser hair removal safe?
Yes. All IPL treatments are non-invasive and safe, with minimum side effects (temporary redness possible, also itchiness). No scars, no pain; no gel or local aesthesia needed.
How many treatments do I need?
Typical regimen 5 to 7, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, depending on the body area.
Why are multiple treatments?
About 20-25% of human hair follicles on the body are in the growth phase at any given time. This is the percentage of the hair follicles that can be destroyed in a single treatment session. That is why it has to be repeated a few times.
IPL Skin rejuvenation
Are pulsed-light aesthetic treatments painful?
No. During the procedure, a slight, momentary stinging sensation may be felt, but not pain.
Are pulsed-light aesthetic treatments safe?
Yes. All pulsed-light treatments are non-invasive and safe, with minimum side effects (temporary redness possible, also itchiness). No scars, no pain; no gel or local aesthesia needed.
What does skin rejuvenation entail?
Skin rejuvenation is the reversal of aging skin by neo-collagenosis, which improves skin texture to obtain a younger and fresher look.
How many treatments are required?
Typical regimen is an average of 5 sessions, at 4 weeks apart.
How long does a treatment take?
A full facial skin rejuvenation treatment takes 20-30 minutes, after which you cancontinue your daily routine.
Can I combine this procedure with other methods for skin rejuvenation?
Yes. Usually, the best anti-aging anti-wrinkle treatment combines skin rejuvenation, botox, fillers, skin tightening and if the case, fractional laser, along the regular facial treatments.
Is anesthesia needed?
Laser treatment of vascular lesions can be mildly uncomfortable; most experience only a brief stinging sensation with each laser treatment, and are able to tolerate the procedure without medication. The need for anesthesia when treating vascular lesions is dependent on the pain threshold of the patient the location and the size of the lesion.
How many treatments are necessary?
• Multiple treatments are generally necessary to obtain satisfactory results in the treatment of vascular lesions, the exact number is difficult to predict
• Telangiectasias may clear after one treatment, particularly the smaller vessels, the larger vessels may require a second treatment
• Nasal telangiectasias may require several treatments, the interval between treatments is 4 to 6 weeks
How many treatments are needed for Rosacea?
• 5 treatment session every 3 weeks, total duration 30 min. In the same time, our protocols require facial treatments every 1-2 weeks ( 5 all together) and specific skin care products.
How effective is the treatment for Rosacea?
• 65% for the laser treatment only, 75% in combined with facial treatments, and 95% if combined with home skin care products too. This is the rate for people considering sustained, major improvements.
What are the complications?
Fortunately, the complications in treating vascular lesions are rare in the hands of experienced and skilled physicians.
• Bruising is the most common reaction (not with IPL), this is particularly true of the pulsed dye lasers, Nd:YAG, the bruising resolves in 7-10 days
• Mild crusting develops in about 20%, this resolves in 5-7 days (not with IPL)
• A certain degree of pain, swelling, and redness, these symptoms resolve in 24 to 48 hours after treatment (uncommon with IPL)
• Pigment alteration - post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin in the treated area may occur, this effect is usually temporary
• Strict sun avoidance is recommended, hyperpigmentation or lightening of the treated is rare and usually transient
• Infection – Bacterial infections are rare and occur when the superficial skin is injured ( never with IPL)
• Antibiotic treatment may be prescribed if infection develops, but generally good wound care is sufficient to prevent infection (never with IPL)
• Scarring is rare with the lasers (never with IPL)
Who is a candidate for laser treatment of vascular lesions?
Almost any patient with one of the vascular lesions described above is a candidate for laser treatment.
In patients undergoing their first laser treatment for vascular lesions, a test area can be treated to assure the appropriate dosage and tissue response.
Where are lasers used?
Laser treatments can be performed on virtually any skin surface, care must be taken to protect the patient’s eyes from the laser light. Goggles or metal eye shields may be used.
Objectives Of Therapy:
• Safe and effective improvement in the appearance of the skin involved with the vascular lesion
• Total removal of the vascular lesion, while desirable, is not always possible ( except for Rosacea)
• Fading or lightening of a vascular lesion is reasonable expectation, complete resolution of some lesions is possible
• Multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired response
Preoperative Care:
• Patients should avoid excessive tanning
• Anesthetic cream application 30-60 minutes prior to treatment (if necessary)
• Immediately prior to treatment, all creams and cosmetics need to be removed from the skin
Postoperative Changes:
Pulsed green laser and intense pulse light source
• Erythema develops immediately following treatment and subsides in 24 hours
• Crusting is a rare occurrence but seen when larger vessels are treated (not with IPL)
Postoperative Care:
• Immediately following treatment, cold compresses can be applied to skin surface
• Strict sun avoidance to prevent pigment changes
• Makeup should be avoided in crusted areas
• Treated areas should be washed gently with soap and water then an emollient can be applied
Types Of Lasers Used For Vascular Lesions:
Pulsed dye laser (595 nm, yellow) (not in our service)
Intense pulsed light source (515-1200 nm)
NdYag laser (1064 nm)
Microdermabrasion
How does it work:
• Microdermabrasion involves applying a rough, abrasive surface to disrupt the outer cell layer of the skin. We use a diamond microdermabrasion system, where a diamond tipped head is used to make contact with the skin layer to disturb the skin cells.
• Once the skin cells are disturbed , the skin cells are scraped off and removed immediately with a small vacuum instrument.
What happens with my skin:
• In the first 24 hours after microdermabrasion treatment, the protective barrier of the middle skin layer is disrupted. This causes the skin to be drier than usual.
• After a series of microdermabrasion treatments, the skin cells regenerate and are arranged more consistently. This allows hydration of the skin to a greater extent than before microdermabrasion treatment. The 'healthy glow' produced from exfoliation is caused by increased number and size of collagen and elastic fibres, fibroblasts and increased blood flow to the skin layers.
How often is recommended:
• Microdermabrasion treatment generally consists of a series of six sessions taken once every 10 to 14 days depending on the client's needs and skin type. More sessions are likely to be required to treat acne scarring.
What are the risks:
• Microdermabrasion treatment is a gentle, non-invasive and safe treatment.
• Microdermabrasion is gentle because what is disrupted and removed from the skin are dead skin cells.
• Microdermabrasion is non-invasive because the treatment does not involve surgery nor require anesthesia to be applied. Microdermabrasion is safe because it has only very minor possible side effects. Minor side effects may include slight changes in pigmentation with people who have darker skin types. Very mild redness/flushing in the treated area may occur after treatment although this disappears within a few hours.
• Furthermore, microdermabrasion treatments are safe because the materials used in treatments (such as the aluminum oxide crystals) do not cause harmful side effects such as through accidental inhalation or ingestion. Aluminum oxide crystals are also clear of impurities such as silica and zinc which may cause allergic skin reactions.
Warnings:
• Although microdermabrasion treatments are regarded as being very safe, please note the following tips to prevent side effects.
• Ensure that your therapist covers your eyes, mouth and nose before the treatment so that crystals are not inhaled or ingested.
• Ensure that your therapist removes all traces of the aluminum oxide crystals from the skin after treatment.
• Use Vitamin C and AHA serums on the skin to keep the skin surface clear.
• Refrain from applying make up on the day of the microdermabrasion treatment as this allows the skin to breathe and rest.
• Avoid skin exposure to direct sunlight (alternatively, apply sunscreen when in direct sunlight, minimum 25pcf) as the removal of dead skin cells has removed a degree of skin protection.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after the microdermabrasion treatment as the salt from perspiration may cause a stinging sensation.
How long does a session take :
• Generally, a microdermabrasion session on the face takes around one hour although the treatment itself may take only 30 minutes. There is no down-time required for the skin to recover.
Does it hurt?
• No. As a result, microdermabrasion treatments do not require anesthesia to be applied.
• Since microdermabrasion is non-invasive, microdermabrasion is not painful. At most, microdermabrasion may be slightly uncomfortable around the sensitive areas of the mouth although this area is generally avoided during treatment.
• Mild redness in the treated area may occur after treatment although this disappears within a few hours.
Laser Tattoo Removal
So how does it work?
Tattoos are permanent because the needle of a tattoo gun pierces the surface layer of the skin, called the epidermis, and delivers ink into the dermis, or secondary, layer of the skin. Ink stays in this area simply because it is larger than the neighboring bloodstream. Laser tattoo removal is the process of breaking these ink molecules into smaller pieces and allowing them to be absorbed into the bloodstream and disappear.
Does it hurt?
Well did your tattoo hurt? Pain is a relative term and depends upon the tolerance of the individual. But most people believe the best thing about laser tattoo removal is how much ‘less pain’ there is when compared to other tattoo removal procedures. (Some people describe the sensation of the laser as being akin to a mosquito bite, or a rubber band being snapped against the skin.)
How long does it take?
This of course depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. Obviously black tattoos with simple outlining and shading is going to be a lot easier to do than full back colored tats. Most tattoos take from a couple weeks to a couple of months. This is because the body needs three weeks to heal between laser tattoo removal sessions—and some lasers are designs for specific colors only. You should count for at least 6 sessions for black tattoos and more ( up to 12) for colored ones, every 4 to 6 weeks.
Why choose Laser Tattoo Removal?
Because unlike other tattoo removal procedures it is virtually painless, free of infection risk, and has great results. Other methods like excision actually remove the tattooed skin with a scalpel which can often make the tattooed area look worse than it did before. Laser Tattoo Removal FAQ #5: When can I return to work?
The same day, right after.
Can I go in the sun after?
Avoid sun exposure for at least 1-2 weeks and only with strict sun protection cream (at least 50 SPF and 15 PPD) after that.
What colors can be done by Laser Tattoo Removal?
Black, blue, red, green. The most difficult are pink, yellow and white which may need more than 8 treatments which are usually combined with peels. You might need more than 12 treatments.
Why nothing has changed after my first Laser Tattoo Removal session?
This is completely normal. Some people may even see their tattoo get darker with their first treatment. Everyone responds at a different rate. The treatment is only effective with multiple visits...just be patient and follow the medical staff's advice and you will get the best results possible.
Can I come sooner than 6 weeks?
Useless. Healing is not the reason for the spacing of your treatments. The laser does not expel the ink; it breaks it up so your body's immune system can take it away. If you treat your tattoo too frequently, the laser is simply targeting the ink your body hasn't had the chance to remove, and you pay more for the same result.
Will I have a scar?
Most patients will not scar, however, scarring is a possibility in any medical procedure involving the skin. If you are predisposed to Keloids, or you scar easily, your chances are higher. Compliance with our aftercare instructions will greatly reduce your chances of scarring.
Skin tightening
What are the advantages of laser skin tightening?
Laser skin tightening is rapidly becoming a very popular cosmetic dermatology procedure for reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other effects of skin laxity. Skin tightening is increasing in popularity because it is less invasive than other rejuvenating procedures, such as face lift and body lift procedures, it produces dramatically firmer skin, and it can be used on any area of the body. Added benefits of laser skin tightening are the reduced risk of side effects and the lack of downtime following treatment.
Which laser skin tightening system is right for me?
The most appropriate laser skin tightening system for a specific patient’s needs is best determined by a qualified cosmetic dermatologist or physician. The choice of a treatment system is based upon such factors as the area(s) of the body to be treated and the patient’s desired results.
What areas of the face and body can laser skin tightening treat?
Laser skin tightening has been proven effective for tightening the skin on all areas of the body. Patients can enjoy a rejuvenated look when this treatment is applied to the face, neck, abdomen, arms, legs, and buttocks. In fact, patients with minor to moderate skin laxity may opt for laser skin tightening treatment instead of more invasive procedures such as liposuction and even mini tummy tuck surgery, and experience noticeably firmer skin with no downtime and little discomfort.
What is the difference between laser skin tightening and laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin tightening often produces less immediate and dramatic changes than laser skin resurfacing, but it also poses far fewer risks, discomfort, and downtime for patients. During laser skin tightening, a laser is used to heat the collagen under the surface of the skin, causing the collagen to expand and the skin to appear tighter. Laser skin resurfacing uses lasers to remove the outer layers of skin to promote the growth of new, healthier skin. Because laser skin resurfacing actually removes the top layers of skin, it can be used to treat a broader range of cosmetic issues than laser skin tightening, such as wrinkles, age or sun spots, acne marks, and other facial scarring. The risk for unfavorable changes in pigmentation and scarring is stronger with laser skin resurfacing than with skin tightening. If you are considering facial or skin rejuvenation and would like to learn more about these different treatment plans, please take advantage of our free consultation to fully educate you on the benefits and potential drawbacks of each approach.
What does laser skin tightening treatment feel like?
During treatment, your laser practitioner will use a small handpiece to apply quick pulses of laser light to your skin. Patients may feel a gradual warming sensation at the treatment area, and could feel brief discomfort which is often described as similar to the sensation caused by a snapping rubber band on the skin. Most patients comment that the discomfort they feel during laser skin tightening is minimal, and it is usually resolved within minutes of the procedure’s completion.
When will I see results?
Most patients notice changes in the tone and condition of their skin immediately following a skin tightening treatment. However, because the procedure is designed to stimulate the natural growth of collagen, the patient’s optimal results may take up to a few months to be visible. Typically, new collagen growth takes from 90 to 180 days after the initial treatment, at which time patients enjoy a dramatically rejuvenated appearance.
Are multiple treatments necessary?
While patients see noticeable decreases in skin laxity after their first laser skin tightening session, most skin tightening experts recommend between 3 to 6 treatments, depending on the patient’s desired results and the area to be treated. Treatments are generally spaced roughly three weeks apart. After the initial series of skin tightening treatments, some patients opt for yearly “touch up” sessions to target areas most prone to wrinkles and lines.
Is laser skin tightening safe?
Laser skin tightening is a safe and painless way to rejuvenate the appearance of skin in any area of the body. Unlike other treatments, such as laser skin resurfacing, which promote the growth of new skin by removing superficial layers of the patient’s skin the patient’s existing skin, laser skin tightening does not burn or break the skin. Patients who undergo skin tightening experience very few side effects and these are most often minor inconveniences in the form of redness or minimal and temporary swelling.
What are the side effects associated with laser skin tightening?
The normal side effects of a laser skin tightening procedure may include redness and swelling, and should resolve within a couple of hours. In rare cases, patients experience bruising and blistering, and some patients experience changes in pigmentation of treated areas. Again, these side effects are very rare. The average skin tightening patient can expect only moderate redness and possible swelling during laser skin tightening recovery, and will be able to resume his or her lifestyle immediately.
Dermal fillers: Fortelis,Esthelis, Mesolis and Mesolis plus
What are the advantages of Anteis fillers?
As unique double cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid, the product will have a better bio-integration in the skin. No risk for lumps and bumps, product can be mold even 2 weeks after injection. Product will last for 1 year, and if administered on regular yearly basis, even more. No risk for blue tidal effect if injected superficially, even more, one of the few fillers on the market dedicated for very superficial wrinkles (Esthelis Soft). Mesolis and Mesolis plus is a unique combination of Hyaluronic acid and glycerol for hydrating purposes, applied by mesotherapy, which will improve radically your skin texture.
When can I ask my practitioner to perform a treatment using Esthelis or Fortelis?
As soon as you see that the wrinkles, folds or the indentations on your face start to become too visible or as soon as you think that you need to enhance your natural beauty, it is time to consult your practitioner about Esthelis, Fortelis or Mesolis.
How are Anteis (Esthelis, Fortelis, Mesolis plus) treatments performed?
During the session which lasts for about 30 minutes the practitioner will inject Esthelis superficially ( or Fortelis more deep) into your skin, specifically into the areas to be treated: naso-labial folds, lips, smile lines, crows feet or worry lines, forehead wrinkles, depressions or scars. That is all! Mesolis is superficially injected with a different technique; 3 treatments are needed than maintenance of 1 injection every 6 month.
Is this treatment painful?
Anteis products ( Esthelis, Fortelis) have been designed to reduce treatment pain and patient discomfort. Your practitioner will, in addition, ask you about your sensitivity to pain. Depending on the answer, he or she may propose the use of a local anaesthetic. However in most cases a local anaesthetic is not necessary.
How long will it be before I am able to see the results?
You will immediately notice a distinct result in the area treated. Increase of lips volume, enhancement of your lip’s contour, disappearance of wrinkles, filling in of deep folds or depressions in about 30 minutes you gain 10 years.
What are the possible side effects of this type of treatment using Anteis fillers? I will probably have to stay at home for several days?
Anteis products are made with a component that naturally occurs in human skin. Since its launch no allergies or other side-effects have been reported by practitioners. At the end of the session you are able to immediately return to your regular social and professional life without having to suffer from prolonged social isolation. Bruises are a possible complication like with any filler, and those will go away in a few days.
Will the Mesolis products make me forget about my wrinkles??
Mesolis gels are indicated for rejuvenation of the dermis. It is true that hydration of your skin will, as the session progress, /tauten/ the dermis, erase the surface micro-lines, and smooth away that look of “crumpled” skin. However, already distinct wrinkles and deep lines on the face or neck need additional treatment. The Esthelis range (wrinkle filler products) is ideal to complement the effects of Mesolis products.
Where can I use Mesolis??
Mesolis products can be used on many parts of the body: face, neck, cleavage (decollete), back of hands, in fact any dermal surfaces subjected to external aggression.
Acupuncture, Reflexology, Reiki, Qigong
How deep do the acupuncture needles go?
This depends upon the nature of the problem and the anatomy of the acupuncture point location, in addition to the patient body, age, constitution. Generally needles are inserted up to 1 inch in depth. For patients who prefer, acupressure can be applied instead of inserting needles.
What will I feel?
You may experience a tingling, heaviness or electric sensation either near the needle insertion point or along the energetic pathway or meridian.
How many treatments will I need?
This will depend upon the nature of the condition, length of time you have experienced it and how well you respond to the treatment Many acute conditions may only require one treatment, while some long term complains require more treatments. Everyone is unique and treatments are tailored to meet your individual needs.
How long is a treatment?
You should allow 1 hour.
What are the benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Helps minimize fine lines, eliminate dirk circles and puffy eyes, improves colour and tighten pores, delays the aging process, reduce frown lines.
How does it work?
We combine sophisticated acupuncture techniques with at-home skin care treatments to achieve optimal results. Based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cosmetic Acupuncture works to increase the circulation of energy and blood to the face.
What kind of results can I expect?
The effects of Cosmetic Acupuncture may include a more even, glowing complexion, a decrease in fine lines and softening of wrinkles,diminished puffiness arround the eyes, and a general lifting of the face, including jowls. In a study reported by the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture, 90% of the participants reported improvements, such as better complexion, diminished lines and wrinkles, and feeling rejuvenated overall.
Is it covered by insurance plans?
Many plans cover Acupuncture and Reflexology when conducted by a trained professional.Please check your coverage with your provider.
What is Reflexology?
A focussed pressure technique directed at the hands or feet. Based upon the principle that there are zones abd reflex points on the feet, which corrspond to all parts of the body.
How does it work?
By stimulating reflex points, the body natural energy works to clear any blockages. A session helps break down deposits that are believed to interfere with the body's electrical energy. Manipulating specific reflex points helps remove stress, activates a parasympathetic response, enabling blockages to be released. With stress removed circulation improves and the body is returned to a state of homeostasis( optimum normal state).
What conditions can be improved?
Arthritis, Asthma, Constipation, Diabetes, Gout, Headaches, Indigestion, Insomnia, Irritable Bowel Disease, Menstrual Irregularities, Neck and Shoulder pain, Nervous tension.
What is Reiki?
A Reiki Master places their hands on or above another person which allows the energy to flow through the individual. Energy first fills teh Reiki practitioner's body, than flows through the practitioner's hands into the individual whi is receiving the healing. Reiki helps re-establish a normal energy flow of chi (life force energy) through the system, which in turn can enhance and accelerate the body's innate healing capacity.
What is Qigong?
Qigong is an ancient Chinese system of postures, exercises, breathing techniques and meditations. It enhances the body's mind and spirit.