Active Acne Therapy

What is it?

Acne is caused by a bacteria and is hence treated differently from other procedures. In order to treat active acne, an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is used. This is a photochemical process (as opposed to a photo-thermal process). We use a low energy procedure for a chemical reaction, as no heat is required.

How does it work?

The bacteria that cause acne contain porphyrins, which are light sensitive molecules. The use of an IPL,with selected filters, allows us to target these molecules which are activated by the light stimulation producing O3 – effectively a “super oxygen” which produces free radicals that kill the bacteria cells.

The secondary benefit of this procedure is a drying out of the sebaceous glands where bacteria strive, hence reducing your potential for further outbreaks. The procedure also reduces rosacea (redness of the skin tone in the face) as an added benefit.

What will I feel during the treatment?

During the treatment, you will feel a slight tingling sensation, like an elastic band being pinged on the skin. This should never be unbearable. Topical anaesthetic cream may be applied prior to the treatment, to numb the area.

How long will it be before I see results?

This depends on the area and severity of the acne. You should be able to see the results, an improvement in the skin, and a drying out of the pores within a week to 10 days. A number of treatments may be required.

Laser Scar Reduction

Scars arise from a number of causes such as surgery, burns, acne, child birth or illness. Scars can be personally very distressing, but the good news is there is a very effective laser that can considerably reduce the visible signs of scarring by helping your body to heal itself with the help of the Palomar™ laser. The first laser for scar reduction to have been granted the American safety standard by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), which involves stringent testing and clinical analysis. It is a non-ablative procedure ensuring no downtime.

How does it work?

The Palomar™ laser is a fractional laser, it emits micro beams which create narrow, deep columns of tissue coagulation that penetrate the dermis (the secondary layer of the skin). The laser impulses deliver light in an array of high precision micro beams which induce micro damage on the surface being treated. This intentional damage initiates a natural healing process that stimulates the production of new skin. The surrounding healthy tissue then begins intensive multiplication – this in turn starts to fill in the damaged area, resulting in new and improved structure of the tissue.

What will I feel during the treatment?

Firstly, you have to wear protective goggles, it is important that these are not removed during the treatment.

You will experience a warm, tingling feeling from the laser as it passes over the area being treated. This should not be uncomfortable. Once the laser has past the area being treated your skin will feel warm, this may last for a few hours and Aloe Vera is recommended.

What should I expect after a treatment?

Your skin will appear red, as if you have been in the sun or been to the gym, but it is a healthy glow and it soon dies down.

It is normally expected that you will see gradual results over the following treatment as your skin is going through its regeneration.