Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Every day your skin, especially your exposed skin, is bombarded by ultraviolet light, ionising radiation and environmental pollutants and toxins. These exposures damage the skin by disrupting DNA, the genetic material in your cells. Fortunately the skin is able to repair much of this damage. Unfortunately the repair is only about 90% effective, and it is the 10% that isn't repaired that causes our skin to age.
The NdYAG Q-switched laser puts out an infra red light with a wavelength of 1064 nanometers. This wavelength is different from visible light (eg IPL) because it is much more penetrating. The energy of the laser is absorbed by pigment, blood and damaged cells in the skin (the 10% that doesn't repair naturally) and causes a mild inflammation. As the skin recovers from this mild injury the overall healing process is closer to 100%.
This results in fading of pigmentation, clarification of the skin and also is associated with new collagen production. This collagen then matures and contracts, tightening the skin and reducing wrinkles. After treatment there is a mild pinkness that usually settles within a day.
The full response to the laser takes about a month, so this is the recommended minimum time between treatments. Improvement is equivalent to turning the clock back about a year (a fairly mild improvement). However, some people can see an obvious improvement even after one treatment.
In addition to the infra red light, the NdYAG beam can be altered to emit green light which targets pigmentation and spider veins.
In comparison to collagen, botox and similar injectables, the advantages of the laser are:
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Large areas treated (eg face neck and chest)
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No needles
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Prolonged effect (permanent?)
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Less cost
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Zero side effects (since starting use in Brisbane in 2000)
The NdYAG Q-switched laser is a well proven laser for stimulating repair of damaged skin. The uses of the Nd:YAG laser include:
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Smoothing fine lines
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Fading pigmentation
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Shrinking capillaries
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Shrinking moles and other lesions
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Tattoo Removal
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Hair removal in dark skin or in cases resistant to IPL
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Major improvement to acne and helps in acne scarring
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Rosacea control
Advantages of The Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser:
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No down time, No anaesthetic
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Suitable for all skin types – even black
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Minimal discomfort
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Often partially covered by Medicare