Laser & IPL Skin Rejuvenation

"Reduce redness & pigmentation"

Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) skin rejuvenation are safe and effective in treating facial redness caused by conditions such as rosacea and broken blood capillaries, and pigmentation concerns such as sunspots, age spots, melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation.

Different types of laser and IPL use specific wavelengths of light to treat specific concerns and typically multiple sessions are required to achieve optimal results. Here at the DRVICTORIA Clinic we have a dedicated laser and IPL room with a Candela GentleMax Pro Nd:YAG / Q-switch and Lynton Excelight IPL so your aesthetician can use multiple devices each appointment to achieve the best outcome, in less time.

Lasers

Laser treatments for facial redness use specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels causing the redness. When the laser energy is absorbed by the blood vessels, it heats them up, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body over time. This leads to a reduction in redness and visible blood vessels.

Different types of lasers are used for this purpose, such as pulsed dye lasers and Nd:YAG lasers. Pulsed dye lasers emit a specific wavelength of light that targets the blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin. Nd:YAG lasers, on the other hand, can penetrate deeper into the skin and are effective for treating larger or deeper blood vessels.

IPL

IPL treatments are similar in principle to lasers, but they use a broad spectrum of light wavelengths instead of a single focused wavelength. This allows them to target a wider range of skin issues, including redness. The light energy emitted by the IPL device is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels, causing them to heat up and coagulate. Over time, the body reabsorbs the treated blood vessels, leading to a reduction in redness.

Lasers

Laser use specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the melanin in the pigmented areas of the skin. The laser energy heats up and breaks down the melanin into smaller particles, which are then naturally cleared away by the body's immune system. The surrounding skin is not significantly affected, as the laser targets only the areas with excess pigmentation.

Different types of lasers are used depending on the specific type of pigmentation being treated. For example, Q-switched lasers are often used for treating darker pigmented spots, while fractional lasers can be effective for treating larger areas of pigmentation and improving overall skin texture.

IPL

IPL is similarly to lasers but uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths instead of a single focused wavelength. The broad spectrum of light can target a range of pigments and can be adjusted with filters to address specific pigmentation concerns. The IPL energy is absorbed by the melanin in the pigmented areas, causing the pigment to fragment and be gradually absorbed by the body.

IPL devices allow for customization of the treatment parameters to target different types of pigmentation and various skin tones. They can also stimulate collagen production, which can further improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin.

Facial redness, red patches, red blotches or broken capillaries (spider veins or a single thread vein) are small unsightly superficial red veins that occur around the nose and across the cheeks and chin.  These broken veins occur when the vein dilates and become larger so they are visible through the transparency of the skin. 

Although facial veins are quite common they can cause some distress and embarrassment for those who have them. Individual broken capillaries can be removed and general redness reduced, however rosacea sufferers can find flare-ups create new red patches and veins which require annual maintenance.

Treatment is suitable for you if you want to:

  • Reduce overall facial redness or red patches
  • Reduce the symptoms of rosacea
  • Remove a specific thread vein cluster
  • Achieve a clearer, fresher looking skin tone

Typically it takes 3-6 treatments to achieve the desired outcome for general facial redness and patches and up to 3 treatments for a specific thread vein cluster.

Pigmentation in the skin is primarily caused by an uneven distribution of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of our skin, hair, and eyes. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of pigmentation irregularities:

  • Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is one of the primary factors that triggers the production of melanin. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, melanin production increases as a natural defence mechanism to protect the skin from UV damage. Over time, excessive sun exposure can lead to the formation of sunspots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.
  • Age: As we age, the production and distribution of melanin can become less uniform, leading to the development of age spots or liver spots.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy (melasma or "pregnancy mask"), menopause, and the use of birth control pills, can lead to changes in melanin production and distribution. This can result in the development of dark patches on the skin.
  • Inflammatory Processes: Skin inflammation and injuries, such as acne, cuts, burns, or other trauma, can trigger an overproduction of melanin in the affected area. This often leads to dark spots or patches known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  • Skin Disorders: Certain skin conditions, such as vitiligo (loss of pigment) or hyperpigmentation disorders, can result in uneven pigmentation.
  • Medications and Chemicals: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause skin pigmentation changes as a side effect. Exposure to certain chemicals, like those found in cosmetics or industrial products, can also lead to pigmentation irregularities.

It's important to note that pigmentation changes can be influenced by a combination of these factors. To effectively manage pigmentation concerns, it's advisable to take steps to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and use appropriate skincare to reduce the underlying cause deep in the skin.

Using our Observ520X your aesthetician can take pictures to show you the hidden damage below your skin which may present as pigmentation as you age.

Laser and IPL treatments can significantly reduce the visible presentation of pigmentation on the surface of your skin, but for the best results your treatment plan will also include a skincare regime to address issues in the deeper layers of your skin.

Your journey will starts with you booking a consultation with one of advanced laser aestheticians. (These treatments are not suitable for people with a skin type Fitz Patrick 6 (very dark) due to the risks of hypopigmentation.)

We recommend clients who fall into the following categories delay booking:

  • Currently using Roaccutane or strong vitamin A skincare.
  • Currently pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Currently have a suntan in the area to be treated.
  • About to depart on a holiday where the area will be exposed to direct strong sunshine.

During your consultation your aesthetician will:

  • Recommend a costed treatment plan which is fully explained - this may also include skincare. 
  • Conduct a patch test for both laser and IPL devices.

If you decide to continue with your treatment plan - all your treatments will be booked with 4-6 week intervals to achieve the desired outcome in the safest time frame. 

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At appointments your aesthetician will use either the laser or IPL, or both devices, depending on the treatment plan. The term "blemish" refers to vascular or pigmented lesions.

UK regulations require new patients, or patients who have not had a laser / IPL treatment for 6 months, to have a consultation and safety patch test, which typically takes 25 mins for both devices and costs £35. Treatments can start 7 days after a successful test patch. 

Treatment Options Single £ Package of 3 £
Facial Redness / Rosacea - Book Online 155 390
Blemish Cluster ≤3 - Book Online 110 280
Single Blemish - Book Online 90 220
Consult & Test Patch - Book Online 35 -

Is this good for minimizing pores on my skin?

We recommend HydraFacial® treatments as a more effective way to improve mild skin texture and minimizing pores whilst promoting the growth of healthier skin cells.

Is this good for acne scarring?

We recommend microneedling as a more effective treatment for improving skin texture and the appearance of acne scars.

Do I have to pause vitamin A skincare during treatment?

Vitamin A, particularly in the form of retinoids (such as roaccutane or tretinoin), is known for its skin-renewing properties and is commonly used to treat various skin concerns, including acne, and uneven pigmentation. However, there are certain considerations when using vitamin A products like retinoids alongside laser treatments.

Skin Sensitivity and Risk of Irritation:
Vitamin A, especially in its more potent forms like prescription retinoids, can make the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Laser treatments, depending on the type and intensity, can also cause some level of skin irritation, redness, and peeling as part of the healing process. Using both retinoids and undergoing laser treatment simultaneously can increase the risk of severe skin irritation and potentially prolong the healing time.

Increased Risk of Side Effects:
Combining retinoids and laser treatments can potentially increase the risk of adverse side effects, such as burns, blisters, or changes in pigmentation. The combination of already sensitive skin due to retinoid use and the effects of the laser treatment can be too harsh for the skin to handle.

Disrupted Healing Process:
Laser treatments work by creating controlled damage to the skin's surface, which then triggers the body's natural healing response, including the production of new collagen. Using retinoids during the post-laser healing phase could interfere with this process and may not allow the skin to heal as effectively or efficiently as it should.

For this reason your aesthetician may ask you stop using vitamin A skincare for a specified time period pre and post laser or IPL treatment.

How do I choose which facial?

We recommend you book an Observ520X skin analysis, with our facial experts, who over 30 mins use the technology to reveal your skin's health and therefore scientifically recommend the best facials and skincare to help you achieve your goals.

Book appointment

 

Related Blog Posts

Author: Mhairi Brown
First published: 11/08/2023
Last updated: 12/08/2023

Facial redness combination treatment using IPL and laser to reduce red patches, red blotches, red splotches & broken capillaries on face with demo video.

Mhairi Brown

Mhairi enjoys taking a pragmatic and scientific approach to helping clients achieve healthy skin with a clear complexion that looks dewy. 

What’s dewy skin? “Dewy skin is when it looks hydrated, fresh and smooth as if you’ve just exfoliated” says Mhairi.

Mhairi likes to use the Observ520X skin analysis machine to see what’s hidden under your skin’s visible surface and identify how best to achieve a clear complexion using gentle chemical peels, laser and IPL skin rejuvenation combined with active skincare to target specific concerns.

Mhairi is also an expert at body contouring providing CoolSculpting and ONDA treatments to help you achieve a body shape in which you feel comfortable.

Book an appointment with Mhairi

Author: Victoria Dobbie
First published: 27/04/2022
Last updated: 04/09/2024

If rosacea is leaving you red-faced with embarrassment, read on as I discuss the triggers, some top tips and treatments shown to reduce symptoms.

Dr Victoria Dobbie

Victoria has over 18 years’ experience in aesthetic medicine and has performed over 36,000 treatments. Victoria speaks at conferences and has been involved in pharmaceutical steering groups for dermal filler product development. She has been a trainer for Ellanse, Silhouette Soft® and MINT® Threads and an Ambassador for Ultherapy and Obagi.

Victoria specialises in providing full facial rejuvenation through advanced combination treatments involving Ultherapy®, TIXEL®, Thread Face Lifts, TCA peels and aesthetic injections.

Victoria provides advanced injection treatments for chronic migraines, bruxism, TMJ and hyperhidrosis.

Victoria is also passionate in helping women through menopause with Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy.

Dr Victoria Dobbie BDS
Dental Surgeon & Facial Aesthetics
GDC 69584

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Practitioners

Hannah Leigh

Hannah Leigh

Hannah has a dual role in the team providing chairside assistance for our doctors and nurses as a medical assistant, and as an aesthetician helping clients achieve smooth, firm, hair free skin.

Hannah particularly enjoys helping clients reducing that “orange peel” pattern on thighs with our ONDA cellulite treatment, combined with their desired bikini line and hair free legs using with our advanced laser. 

As a qualified Level 4 Advanced Skin Therapist she can help you get glowing, radiant skin with our range of HydraFacial and TIGHTEN+ facials.

Book an appointment with Hannah

CIBTAC
Aesthetician
Mhairi Brown

Mhairi Brown

Mhairi enjoys taking a pragmatic and scientific approach to helping clients achieve healthy skin with a clear complexion that looks dewy. 

What’s dewy skin? “Dewy skin is when it looks hydrated, fresh and smooth as if you’ve just exfoliated” says Mhairi.

Mhairi likes to use the Observ520X skin analysis machine to see what’s hidden under your skin’s visible surface and identify how best to achieve a clear complexion using gentle chemical peels, laser and IPL skin rejuvenation combined with active skincare to target specific concerns.

Mhairi is also an expert at body contouring providing CoolSculpting and ONDA treatments to help you achieve a body shape in which you feel comfortable.

Book an appointment with Mhairi

ITEC
Aesthetician
Toni Quinn

Toni Quinn

Toni has enormous experience in laser hair removal and can help you get smooth hair free skin quickly and comfortably.

Plus as an experience skin therapist Toni can help you get glowing, radiant skin with our range of HydraFacial® and TIGHTEN+ facials.

Her latest skill is reducing Cellulite which is a very common condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, and buttocks.

Book an appointment with Toni

VTCT
Aesthetician

Testimonials

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