IPL is useful for the treatment of small broken blood vessels on the face secondary to rosacea, those present around the nose, and cherry angiomas. The light therapy targets the hemoglobin in the vessels and coagulates the vessels. Disappearance of the unwanted vessels and lesions is often immediate. Repeat treatments are often necessary for patients with rosacea. The mechanism of facial vascular lesion removal is based on selective coagulation of abnormal vessels.
Who is a candidate?
People with: Spider veins, Rosacea, Port wine stains, Cherry angiomas, and other vascular conditions.
What are the intended results?
Skin tone will be more normal, with less pronounced redness within one week after treatment. Vessels may disappear after treatment or they may appear darker and then fully or partially fade within 10-14 days. Typically, several treatments will be necessary to achieve complete clearance of rosacea and vessels.
How does it work?
The Palomar hand piece emits pulses of light that target specific substances, such as oxhemoglobin in vessels.
What is the procedure?
The treatment provider will move the hand piece over the patient's skin, pulsing it all the while. Each pulse will send a beam of light through the skin. A flashing light, an audible tone, and a mild sensation on the skin will let the patient know when the hand piece is being pulsed.
What is the healing process?
Immediately after treatment, patients can expect a mild sunburn-like sensation, possibly accompanied by some minor swelling. This usually lasts 2-24 hours, and can be soothed with cold gel or ice packs.
Post Treatment
Apply cosmetics to treated area. Swimming, especially in pools with chemicals, such as chlorine. Hot tubs and Jacuzzis. Acitivities that cause excessive perspiration. Sun exposure to treated areas. Apply an SPF 30 or greater to prevent skin color changes. Aggressive scrubbing and use of exfoliants on the treated area.
