Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) treatment uses "Pulsed Dye" laser technology to perform non-ablative cosmetic procedures. Laser treatment has become a prevalent cosmetic anti-aging solution. The laser treatment market experienced dramatic growth over recent years, blooming with technological innovations and developments in technique that foster variety in treatment types and benefits offered. PDL technology was designed to be gentle on patients' skin, and versatile in application. Does this Spark an idea?
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How PDL Works
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Highly concentrated, energy-filled lasers target the blood vessels of the skin's problem areas. When the laser transforms into heat, the blood vessels are destroyed. PDL's precision helps ensure that the healthier nearby cells remain unaffected. Wavelengths and pulse durations are adjustable, to ensure optimal performance levels. PDL offers preventative benefits as well. Old, dead skin cells of the outer skin layer are sloughed away, and rapid skin cell turn-over is stimulated with collagen production. The fresh, healthy skin cells emerge as the new outer skin layer, with a rejuvenated, radiant complexion.
Reasons for PDL Treatment
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PDL patients range widely in age and skin condition. Regardless, the ultimate desired effect of laser treatment is rejuvenated, youthful skin. Reaching that goal requires the correction of skin irregularities. Skin discoloration and textural ailments can be resolved with PDL treatment. Visible sun damage commonly appears as age spots and liver spots. PDL can also rid melasma spots, caused by pregnancy. Acne scars, unsightly moles, warts, cherry angiomas and broken capillaries are also reasons for treatment. The time and effort required to achieve desired results is contingent on skin condition, and the type and quality of treatment. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can be reduced with PDL treatment, but worse-than-moderate wrinkles might benefit from a more intense treatment, such as Profractional. John Hopkins Cosmetic Center lists PDL's "best uses" as: correction of scars, spider veins, birthmarks and port wine stains.
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Pre-Treatment Preparation
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Patients, if not in the habit already, are encouraged to apply a high-strength sunscreen daily for at least a month before the first session. Tanned skin is a deal-breaker to receive treatment. Laser treatment is nearly useless on tanned skin, and, in fact, bears the risk of permanent skin damage.
Laser Treatment Sessions
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Thick, dark glasses protect the eyes from the laser light. Don't be skeptical of a nurse performing treatment under the doctor's supervision, as it is not uncommon for doctors to train and authorize select nurses to perform laser procedures.
The length of sessions varies from 20 to 60 minutes, but can be 15 minutes or less if the intent is to zap a few broken capillaries, or have the outside of the nostrils lasered to rid redness. The quantity of sessions, again, depends on the condition of the skin. The majority of cosmetic goals can be achieved after one to three laser treatment sessions. Deep wrinkles and dramatic scars are typically the skin complaint that requires the most time and attention. Patients who prioritize wrinkle reduction must weigh the pros and cons of harsher treatments (which can quickly produce dramatic results yet present higher risks) and gentler treatments (which are safer yet will likely require continual and frequent treatment to produce a visible effect).
Pain and Safety
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PDL technology is regarded by medical professionals as an effective and safe tool for laser treatment. An anesthetic isn't administered, since treatment causes little to no pain. Potential pain might include a slight prickling feeling in the skin, or a brief, tiny pinch where the laser permeates the skin. Just before the first laser pulse, the machine sprays a mist of water on the skin, which "camouflages" any potential pain caused by the laser contact. A stinging feeling is highly unlikely, though not impossible. Nervous patients with a low tolerance for pain are encouraged to rub anesthetic cream into the target skin area before the session begins. Patients experience no down time after treatment sessions, and may immediately return to normal daily activities.
Post-Treatment Side Effects
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Less abrasive than other laser types, PDL treatment is gentler on the skin, and offers exceptional precision capabilities; hence, PDL's reputation as one of the safest laser options, with the least possible side effects. Bruising of the treated skin is somewhat common, and lasts from three days to a couple of weeks.
Warning
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PDL treatment, like many cosmetic procedures, results in skin that is substantially more sensitive to UV ray exposure. A high-strength SPF (45 minimum, but search for 85 to 100, especially for treated facial skin) is even more crucial to daily life. Apply the SPF daily, regardless of weather. Protect treated facial skin with a wide hat while in the sun.
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References
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- Photo Credit Bio.Skinergy: Flickr.com
