Vascular Pigmented Skin

Traditional treatments for removing or reducing the appearance of vascular and pigmented lesions are often long term and uncomfortable. Frequently administered corticosteroid medication can have undesirable side effects. Cryosurgery cannot be used in many cases. Surgery and treatment with ablative lasers can be painful and may cause damage and scaring to adjacent body areas.

Most patients with vascular and pigmented lesions are ideal candidates for non-invasive AFT pulsed light treatments. The widest range of benign vascular lesions, like port wine stains, telangiectasias, hemangiomas, erythema, rosacea and poikiloderma of Civette can be safely and effectively treated with AFT pulsed light. In addition, pigmented lesions like lentigos, seborrheic keratoses, cafe-au-lait, ephelies and dyschromia can also be treated.

How Does AFT Pulsed Light Work?

AFT's selective pulsed light energy is precisely absorbed by the target areas, without damaging healthy skin. Selectively heating and closing off blood vessels, AFT pulsed light reduces the lesions, the light energy heats the melanin in the lesion and causes it to fragment. The melanin fragments are then absorbed by the body and eliminated. By providing smooth, consistent light pulses, the energy delivered to the skin is gentle and effective.

What Are Vascular and Pigmented Lesions?

Benign vascular lesion, red in colour, are caused by an abnormal clustering of blood vessels. Pigmented lesions(nevi), less widespread, are clusters of melanin in the skin and are brown in colour. While some lesions may fade, others become more pronounced over time.

What to Expect?

Patients must consult with a physician to determine their course of treatment. Physicians set treatment plans according to the characteristics, such as size and location, of each patients lesions. Most lesions can be treated within half an hour, and for best results, repeated treatments are required. Before treatment, a cold gel is usually applied to the area to be treated. Then, the physician delivers precise pulses of light to the target area. Patients report little or no pain with AFT treatment, and can return to their normal activities immediately.

Is It Safe?

AFT's high levels of light and gentle energy parameters assure safe, effective treatment. Uniquely shaped AFT pulses precisely heat their intended targets, causing remarkably little or no skin damage or discomfort. This optimal use of energy both increases safety and eliminates the need for cooling methods. Clinical trials conducted by leading authorities on pulsed light document its safety and effectiveness.

Does It Hurt?

While pain tolerance is an individual matter, most people tolerate AFT pulsed light treatment well, and describe the sensation as a rubber band snap to the skin. The majority of patients require no anesthesia, though topical anesthetic is an option for sensitive areas.