What is Photo Rejuvenation?
Photo Rejuvenation is a laser treatment that can assist in reducing the appearance of pigmentation (mainly superficial pigmentation such as sun damage or freckles), age spots and broken capillaries. It works by utilising a wavelength of light that is highly attracted to melanin. The light is directed to target the unwanted spots, it then absorbs as heat, which gently destroys the cells. The result is a temporary darkening and crusting of the spots for 1-2 weeks, before they gradually flake away revealing a more even complexion. Some clients may achieve their desired results in only 1 session, but others may require a minimum of 3 to 6 depending on the degree of pigment damage.
What are the benefits of Photo Rejuvenation Treatments?
1. Results with Photo Rejuvenation can be seen even after just one single treatment!
Yes you read correctly! Many times, photo rejuvenation treatment results can be seen after just one single treatment. Why you may wonder? Well to put it simply, the light of the laser is attracted to PIGMENT, and the pigment is the darkest shade before you start any treatments. Therefore, most clients experience the most results from their very first photo rejuvenation treatment. After the second one and the third one, the pigment has either lightened or has been removed. The reason we always test patch prior to a photo rejuvenation treatments is to ensure we are able to treat you at the highest and safest levels possible.
2. Photo Rejuvenation can also reduce fine lines and wrinkles too!
In addition to the reduction in the appearance of pigmentation, clients will also notice an overall rejuvenating effect on fine lines, wrinkles and broken capillaries – Yes, due to the wavelengths used with photo rejuvenation treatments, you’ll be able to ditch the anti wrinkle injections as well 🙂
3. Photo Rejuvenation can be performed on the face and body.
In addition to treating pigmentation on the face, we are also able to reduce the appearance of sun damage on different parts of your body. The most common area is the chest, shoulders and arms. Client’s say that reducing the pigment on the chest and arms especially make them feel more confident when wearing low cut tops – After all, we look after the skin on our face and often neglect the body!
What Skin types can have Photo Rejuvenation Treatments?
1. Skin types 1 to 2 (On the Fitzpatrick Scale)
As part of your consultation process, it is imperative to understand what your “Fitzpatrick Scale” skin type is, especially when performing advanced laser and skin treatments. This can often prevent an adverse reaction to occur if the incorrect setting or treatment was performed. To put it simply, the “Fitzpatrick” number explains how the skin reacts to sun exposure. Skin types who fall in the 1 to 2 range can burn very quickly under the sun, they tend to have light coloured eyes and lighter skin on their elbows and knees. They also most likely have freckles. They have very light skin and are the most suitable candidates for Photo Rejuvenation. Think about this – the more contrast between the pigment we are treating (for example, a freckle) and the actual skin colour, the better the results.
2. Skin Types 3 (On the Fitzpatrick Scale)
Skin type 3 clients sometimes have a fair to beige undertone to their skin, their eye colour can be hazel or light brown. When they go out into the sun, they may burn first and then turn to slight tan. Although skin type 3’s can have photo rejuvenation treatments, we must be extremely mindful and ensure the client will comply with pre and post treatment protocols (such as staying out of the sun and using a sunscreen on a daily and prepping their skin on the appropriate skin care).
3. Skin Types 4 to 6 (On the Fitzpatrick Scale)
Skin types 4 to 6 sit in the “Never will I ever” perform photo facial treatments category. The darker the skin type the higher the risk (More pigment in the skin). Due to the wavelength of light we use specifically with photo rejuvenation treatments, we are almost always guaranteed to cause unwanted adverse side effects. But please don’t worry, if you fall into this category and want to reduce your pigment, we have the most amazing treatments suitable for your skin type. Just give us a call, and we’ll book you in for a consultation to discuss your skin concerns.
Photo Rejuvenation after care
Experiencing mild to moderate crusting after a photo rejuvenation treatment is what needs to occur to reduce or remove the pigmentation. Without proper after care, you risk having unwanted side effects such as hypo or hyper pigmentation (lightening or darkening of the area). To ensure the skin heals naturally, we must apply a post laser gel regularly. In addition to this, we must use a daily sunscreen and stay away from the sun. We will walk you through the entire process at the initial consultation to ensure you get the results you desire.
Photo rejuvenation Before & After’s
I often say, let the photo’s do the talking. Here are just a few before and after photo’s of clients who have had photo rejuvenation treatments. Click here if you would like to read more about the treatments we have to treat your pigmentation.
Whilst treatment itself is a simple procedure, it’s important to understand that dealing with pigmentation requires more than just one visit to your local skin clinic. You need to carefully consider your skin history – what skin care or treatments have you used or had in the last 12 months? Does your work or lifestyle expose you to the sun? Are there any genetic or internal factors that may affect your results?
Before committing to any treatments, always have a thorough consultation and analysis of your skin to determine if laser will be the best treatment for you. This includes preparing your skin on a pigment inhibitor for example Lira clinical pro lite and a physical zinc based SPF, such as Lira clinical hydrating sunscreen as well as what you need to care for your skin post treatment to ensure long term results where there is less chance of the pigment returning. Click here if you would like to read more about the treatments we have to treat your pigmentation. Once your ready to begin the journey to skin you feel more comfortable in, get in touch with the friendly teams at our clinics.
We look forward to seeing you in clinic soon!
Yours in Beauty,
Victoria Chakkour