Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) treatments emit a high intensity single-wavelength burst of light energy at a wavelength of 595nm which passes through the dermis and epidermis layers of skin to be absorbed by the oxyhemoglobin in the blood tissue. The name comes from the fact that the treatment uses this light energy to “pump” a liquid used for dye purposes, to the point where the light sufficiently excites the dye to release a stimulated radiation. When this light hits the skin, a large portion is subsequently absorbed, thereby allowing it to kill diseased cells.
Originally used to treat port-wine stain birthmarks, it has since been clinically proven to treat conditions such as rosacea, acne scarring, general scarring, spider veins, warts, melasma, plaque psoriasis, burn scars, and more. Each of these conditions require different application schedules for the treatments. Port-wine stains, for example, have been found to be reduced by 80% following 8-10 treatments, which leads to a significant reduction in appearance. The treatment of warts has been found to be especially effective for fair-skinned individuals, with each lesion requiring only one treatment. Melasma, which is a hereditary condition that results in brown spots on the face and hands of individuals, can be significantly treated in only 3 treatments in a 3 week interval. Both burn and acne scars are also effectively treated by PDL treatments, with the redness and elevation of such scars decreasing significantly with each treatment, and the overall itching of burn scars decreasing as well. Prior to beginning a PDL treatment, a trained expert should advise as to the length of the treatment and the number of applications required.
PDL treatments are generally safe and side effects tend to be mild, but may include: slight pain during treatment (usually treated with cooling, or, if necessary, a topical anesthetic); swelling, redness, or itching lasting a few days after the treatment; possible changes in skin pigmentation resulting in light or dark patches (though rare, this is one of the reasons PDL treatments tend to work better for lighter skinned individuals); and a very small risk of bruising or bacterial infection, both of which can be treated.
Mediluxe is proud to offer PDL treatments – our staff will happily guide you through the process, informing you of the benefits and all possible risks involved prior to benggining. Book your consultation now!
