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Introduction
The Euromed Clinic uses advanced laser technology and cosmeceutical
products to eliminate red veins such as thread veins, spider veins and
broken capillaries. Our treatments are also effective in the removal of
Rosacea and port wine stains. Facial red veins tend to be nearer the
surface of the skin and are generally treated with the IPL. Leg veins
are usually deeper and are treated with the Nd:YAG laser.
How does Intense
Pulse Light (IPL) work?
The wavelength of the light emitted by the laser/ IPL is specially
selected so that it is predominantly absorbed by blood vessels within
the epidermis and dermis. In areas of vascular lesion, the blood vessels
are overgrown or in high concentration, and the light is absorbed by
these blood vessels, causing them to heat up and undergo a process
called thermocoagulation. This destroys the entire blood vessel while
causing minimal damage to the surrounding skin. Following treatment, the
destroyed blood vessels are naturally absorbed by the body leaving
little or no trace of the lesion.
Who can be
treated?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark skinned or
sun-tanned individuals. This is because these types of skin have higher
levels of melanin and the light will be absorbed by this melanin and may
damage the skin.
How is the
treatment carried out?
As individuals react in different ways to the treatment, a test patch is
always taken to ensure that there are no adverse reactions.
A thin layer of gel is applied to the skin. This helps cool the skin and
ensures that light is transmitted effectively to the lesion. The
rectangular quartz applicator is placed in contact with the skin surface
over the affected area. The light is pulsed through the quartz and onto
the lesion. The applicator is then moved to the next area and the
process repeated.
Number and length
of treatment sessions?
A typical treatment session will take 15 to 30 minutes.
The number of treatments depends on the type and size of lesion.
Typically one to five treatments will be needed at four to six week
intervals.
Does it hurt?
As the light energy is absorbed by the skin, it heats up and creates the
sensation of a sharp pinprick. No anaesthesia is required, other than
cooling the skin.
What should I
expect after the treatment?
Redness and a slight burning sensation are normal after treatment. Any
redness generally dies down within 30 minutes, but some people may
remain red for up to 24 hours. The skin is cooled after treatment to
ease these symptoms.
It is necessary to avoid sun exposure or to use a high protection
sunscreen for two to four weeks after treatment. The Euromed Clinic
recommends and supplies sunscreen for this purpose.
Are there any
side effects?
Most patients experience no side-effects other than a temporary
reddening of the skin. Very rarely, the skin may become darker or
lighter or a small blister may form. |