What issues can be treated with a photofacial?
A photofacial is very versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of issues. Discolorations and uneven skin texture, such as acne scarring, can be dramatically improved.
Photofacials can also be used to improve the appearance of:
- Sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Scarring
- Acne
- Large Pores
- Broken blood vessels
- Rosacea
- Hyperpigmentation
Additionally, photofacials can also help tighten skin and improve facial contouring. As we age, our skin becomes thinner, collagen production slows and the elastin fibers that give our skin firmness and bounce wear out. These changes cause the skin to wrinkle and sag. By stimulating collagen production, a photofacial can reverse these effects.
Even though it’s called a photofacial, this same treatment can improve skin damage on other parts of the body such as the neck, chest, arms, hands and back.
What should I expect during my photofacial treatment?
When you arrive for your photofacial, we’ll first clean the treatment areas and provide eye protection.
We’ll apply a cooling gel to your skin before treatment. The handpiece is then gently pressed against the skin. You’ll feel mild zaps as the light energy goes to work beneath the skin’s surface. Some patients experience a stinging sensation, like being snapped with a rubber band.
Treatments usually take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
After treatment, we’ll wipe away the gel and apply a moisturizing sunscreen. If you are experiencing redness or swelling, you can use a cold pack to ease discomfort.
What should I expect after a photofacial?
After treatment, you’ll need to protect your skin, treat it gently and give it time to heal. Most people who have a photofacial can return to their regular daily lives immediately after treatment. You may experience some minor redness and swelling. It’s fine to wear make-up to cover redness or spots during healing, but it’s also essential to let the skin breathe as much as possible as it heals.
In rare cases, people may experience bruising or tenderness that lasts up to a week. During your consultation, we’ll discuss all the possible side effects.
Using a high SPF sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure are important precautions. For the first few weeks, don’t use any retinol products, at-home chemical peels or physical exfoliant scrubs while your skin fully recovers.
How long will it take to see the full results of my photofacial?
Your results will depend on what issues you are treating with a photofacial. Many people see an overall improvement of their skin’s appearance the day after treatment.
For pigmentation treatment and scarring, it may take up to a week for the damaged cells to reach the skin’s surface and flake away. In some cases, spots or scars may briefly become more noticeable before they flake off or disappear – don’t panic this is a normal part of the healing process!
For optimal results, most people need a series of treatments over three to five months – and will see even more improvement after each treatment. Severe redness or hyperpigmentation may require more than five treatments.
You can keep your results looking their best with a schedule of ongoing maintenance treatments a few times a year. During your consultation, we’ll talk about your skin concerns and goals and create a photofacial program that will help you achieve healthier, younger-looking skin.