What
does the treatment entail?
The skin
is cleansed, prepared with gel and then treated with the
light. Afterwards, the gel is cleaned off and replaced
with sunscreen. Cold compresses may be used if needed.
What
are the benefits of Photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation's
short treatment time, quick effects and lack of downtime
make it popular. Photorejuvenation gives skin a healthy,
youthful look and decreases the appearance of blemishes
such as acne scars, brown spots and redness from rosacea.
How
many treatments are required?
The
standard treatment is a series of three to five
treatments performed at three to four week intervals.
Some may be satisfied with the results from two or three
sessions, and some may desire additional sessions.
Is
Photorejuvenation safe?
Photorejuvenation
is a safe, common and quick procedure with little risk.
Are
there any possible side effects?
You may
experience a sunburned look for a few hours after
treatment, and targeted spots will temporarily appear
darker and flake off in a couple of days. Hair growth
may be affected. Swelling, blistering, infection,
unwanted pigmentation changes and scarring are rare side
effects. Existing viral infections such as shingles and
herpes may be activated by the treatment.
What
conditions respond best to this treatment?
Rosacea,
age spots, enlarged pores, freckles and sun spots all
respond well to Photorejuvenation.
Will
there be any downtime?
No, you
may immediately return to your normal routine and even
apply makeup.
What
can be expected post-treatment?
Your skin
will be sensitive and will need to be protected from the
sun. Any swelling will be minimal and can be treated
with cold compresses. Dark spots from the treatment
should flake off after a few days.
How
soon will results appear?
Noticeable
results appear after the first few treatments.
How
long does a Photorejuvenation treatment last?
A session
lasts about a half an hour.
Who
should avoid Photorejuvenation?
You may
want to reconsider having Photorejuvenation if you have
a history of excessive scarring, bleeding or bruising,
sun sensitivity, keloid formation or poor healing. Those
with a family history of skin cancer should talk to a
specialist about whether or not to proceed with
Photorejuvenation.
How
does the treatment feel?
You will
experience some discomfort. Most find the treatment to
be similar to the sensation of a rubber band snapping
against the skin.
How
long do the results last?
The
effects of Photorejuvenation can be permanent if the
skin is well cared for.
What
are the alternative treatments?
There are
other light treatments and topical creams that may be
used instead. You should consult a specialist, as
Photorejuvenation will not treat the underlying
conditions causing your problem areas.
What
are the limitations of Photorejuvenation?
Those with
darker skin are less likely to see results and more
likely to experience adverse side effects.
Instructions
for before treatment:
Discontinue
use of Accutane® for six months, Retin-A® for two
weeks and glycolic acid and alpha-hydroxy acid products
for a week before your treatment. Avoid sun and sunless
tanning for four weeks. Do not take aspirin or other
blood thinners for at least three days before your
treatment. You cannot be treated while you have
infections or sores in the area.
Instructions
for after treatment:
Protect
your skin with moisturizers and sunscreen. Cold
compresses and steroid creams may be used as necessary.
Avoid irritating your skin, and keep away from the sun
and sunless tanners for a couple of weeks.