What is Photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation is a light based procedure that removes the signs of sun damage such as sun freckles, blood vessels, uneven pigmentation and superficial wrinkles from the surface of the skin. It utilizes intense pulsed light, a device that uses a broad spectrum of light (as opposed to a laser which utilizes only one wavelength of light). Typically delivered as a series of five treatments over 15-20 weeks, this no down-time procedure leaves the skin with an even tone and texture, smoother pores and newfound radiance.
Who is a candidate?
Good candidates for this procedure are people with sun damaged skin: freckled, discolored, red, blotchy, or those with poor skin texture and/or large pores. In addition, this is a very effective treatment for the redness, dilated blood vessels and flushing of rosacea.
What is Photorejuvenation like?
You will come into the room with a cleansed face after having applied a topical anesthetic cream (not everyone needs the anesthetic, but it does make the procedure more comfortable). The entire surface of the area to be treated (face, neck, chest, hands, arms, legs, back) will be covered with clear ultrasound gel and pulsed with the light. Although this sometimes feels like one small focal spot (similar to a rubber band snap), we target the entire area for maximal response. We require all those in the treatment room, including the patient, to wear goggles or protective eye wear. The procedure for the face takes approximately 20-30 minutes for one area.
How does Photorejuvenation work?
There are multiple wavelengths contained in the pulsed light. Some are more effectively absorbed by pigment-containing cells and others by small blood vessels. By slowly (over five treatments) eradicating cells that contain excess pigment, sealing shut small and unnecessary dilated blood vessels, and stimulation of collagen production, the skin achieves a smooth, even-toned, and healthier appearance.
What type of equipment is used?
CFI uses the Sciton BBLT (Broadband Light source). This is a high-technology piece of equipment requiring specialized training for use.
 Download Photo Facial Brochure & Technical Guide
What desired results can be expected?
Typical results reveal faded sunspots and pigmentation. Redness and dilated blood vessels disappear as the skin smoothes out and becomes more radiant (light-reflecting).
Typically five treatments are necessary to achieve this transformation. Occasionally it can take more or less. This is highly dependent on individual factors, such as skin type, degree of damage, use of concurrent skin care regimens and sun avoidance.
Before & After Pictures of Photo Facials
Are there any negatives?
If there are a lot of pigmented spots, they will become slightly darker over the week following treatment and flake off. This type of response is expected and can usually be concealed with makeup.
Excessive heating of the skin can occasionally lead to "foot-printing" (stripes) which consist of areas that have been more improved in the laser track pattern than the surrounding skin. This happens rarely, but is more common if the skin being treated is tan or has recently been exposed to the sun and/or if the sun damage is severe. This unwanted side effect is corrected with further treatment.
Rarely, one could develop blisters or crusts that could become infected and cause scarring. This is very uncommon and prompt intervention can avert long-term effects.
What happens after Photorejuvenation?
After the treatment the gel is wiped from the area, the eye shields or goggles are removed and you are free to go about your daily business. Makeup and/or sunscreen may be applied immediately and you may return to work or any social engagement. You may continue your current skin care regimen.
Is there another way to get the same effect?
There are many other laser and light systems which can be used for Photorejuvenation. This is not a peeling procedure, but laser skin resurfacing (including the MicroLaserPeel™ ) can achieve similar effects They work however by "refinishing" the surface of the skin, and do not have as favorable an effect on broken capillaries.
How is this different than other procedures?
This is different from Fraxel® and laser resurfacing (which predates Photorejuvenation) as a technique for removing sun damage in that it allows for a gentle and gradual development of improved texture and tone without down-time. There are also fewer risks of complications.
Can this be combined with other treatments?
We combine this treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic , Injectable fillers such as Juvederm ™ and tissue tightening procedures such as Thermage™. All of these procedures compliment and enhance each other.
What is the cost of Photorejuvenation?
Costs vary depending on the area(s) being treated. All potential candidates must first undergo an in-person consultation. Please call our office to schedule a consultation. (650) 462.3161 |
