MED:0001189663 – This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks, Read more here

What are laser facial treatments?

Laser facial treatments consist of having a cosmetic treatment (or series of cosmetic treatments), which aims to address lines, decreased fullness or skin texture of your face. Facial procedures can be either surgical and/or non-surgical treatments or a combination of both. Treatments can vary in invasiveness and depth of treatment. One of the common facial treatments that we offer at The Layt Clinic is the use of cosmetic medical grade lasers. Non-surgical treatments can target specific depths of facial structures and treat localized facial concerns such as wrinkles, skin laxity, hyperpigmentation and scars.

What laser is the best for me?

With so many different types of lasers on the market, figuring out the important differences can become confusing. Our facial lasers offered at The Layt Clinic consist of the Lumenis ResurFX™, Cutera® Genesis & Cutera® Pearl® Lasers. Whilst these lasers are all TGA-approved, and classed as medical graded lasers, they are all indicated to treat differently. Whilst the wavelengths are all very different on our lasers, the application for your skin concerns will see our highly experienced therapists and nurses tailoring the correct laser to give you the best results. Of course this depends on your treatment expectations, down time, skin type and costs.

What’s the difference between our lasers?

Laser ResurFX™ is a non-ablative fractionated laser, this means that it works without removing any layers of skin. Instead, the heat and light energy pass through the skin cells while leaving them intact. In contrast, ablative lasers remove layers of skin in a very precise manner until the appropriate depth is reached. There is minimal downtime with this laser, and most patients experience mild swelling and redness which is similar to a mild sunburn. This treatment is suited to most skin types, but avoiding the sun is best to ensure the skin is kept safe during and after treatments. We recommend a minimum of three Laser ResurFX™ treatments over six weekly intervals.

Laser Genesis is a non ablative laser that uses a longer wavelength which makes it safe for all skin types. This laser is very gentle and is great to treat skin conditions such as rosacea and melasma. It also helps to create collagen by gently heating up the dermal layers of the skin. This treatment is a great option for patients on their lunchbreak as there is no downtime at all. The skin will be flushed but settle quite quickly after the treatment. You will however require more laser genesis treatments, we recommend a minimum of six treatments at two weekly intervals.

Cutera® is a laser and intense pulsed light-based aesthetic platform which enables hair reduction and skin rejuvenation treatments to be performed in a safe, effective and non-invasive manner.

Pearl® Fractional is an ablative laser operated by our experienced plastic surgeon, Dr Craig Layt. It can be effective in the treatment of deep rhytides and collagen production. Pearl® Fractional targets the dermis and results in complete vaporisation of the tissue columns resulting in a microscopic appearance of holes within the skin. This means that the patient requires a certain amount of downtime which can last up to 1-2 weeks. Usually just one treatment of Pearl® Fractional is required to achieve optimal results. Non-Fractional Pearl® works on the outer layers of the skin only, and works in a similar way to a deep peel by taking away layers of the skin to help reduce sun damage. As this laser is very superficial compared to Pearl® Fractional there is minimal downtime of about 4-5 days. One treatment is usually required but sometimes a second treatment may be recommended for optimum results.

As the ageing process continues following each treatment, some patients may choose to undergo maintenance treatments every few years for either Pearl® or Pearl® Fractional.

Limelight IPL

Cutera® Limelight IPL is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that uses intense pulses of light to target pigment, redness and broken capillaries to address the effects of sun-damage and ageing. IPL does not affect the surface of the skin and therefore often has significantly less discomfort and downtime in comparison to some laser resurfacing treatments.

The Limelight can address facial issues such as skin redness, tiny veins, brown spots and other effects caused by sun damage that chemical and physical sunscreens cannot keep from occurring. A Limelight series usually consists of 2 to 5 treatments at monthly intervals. Immediately after your treatment your skin may be slightly red or swollen. This will generally only last for a few hours and settle within a day. You should be able to wear makeup and continue your daily duties. After your treatment, the pigmentation or brown spots will usually darken, come to the skin’s surface and flake off. This process should take up to 10 days. You can apply makeup during this time.

Limelight IPL is very effective at treating:

It is most commonly used on the face, neck, décolletage, arms and hands, but it can be used on any area of the body.

There are multiple brands of IPL / BBL machines on the market. At The Layt Clinic we have invested in the Cutera® Limelight IPL, which can also be paired with the Cutera® Coolglide Laser and Cutera® Pearl® Laser to treat broken capillaries and stubborn pigmented spots. The Limelight is a medical grade IPL device made in the USA, and is unique in being able to choose three different wavelength spectrums to accurately tailor the treatment to your skin type, targeting either red, brown, or red and brown pigments in the skin. The treatment can be used on most areas of the face and body. Our highly trained Paramedical Staff are able to provide a consultation and test patch for you, and tailor a series of treatments to suit your skincare needs.

How does Limelight work?

Limelight deposits pulses of light energy into the superficial layers of the skin where it is absorbed by specific targets (red and brown pigments) such as fine broken blood vessels that cause redness, and melanin pigment in brown spots. This process destroys the target and eliminates it from the skin, restoring the normal skin tone and complexion.

Can all skin types have limelight?

IPL is absorbed by brown pigment, so it is suited more for lighter skin types to keep the treated area safe. If you currently have fake tan on your skin, we unfortunately cannot treat your skin and skin needs to be clear and clean of tan on the day of treatment. Patients must wear SPF in between their treatments and avoid direct sun exposure to the area to ensure patient safety and best treatment results. The area to be treated should not have had excessive sun-exposure for at least four weeks, or fake tan applied for two weeks prior to the Limelight procedure.

Treatment of red spots (vascular lesions) and brown spots

Limelight can treat or lighten brown or vascular lesions. We highly recommend that all patients have regular skin checks to ensure any skin lesions are safe to treat with pulsed light. Solar lentigines, freckles, and sun damage can safely be treated with limelight. Some spots that are stubborn such as seborrheic keratosis may need a laser treatment such as the Cutera® Pearl® Laser in combination with the IPL to achieve the best results. Dr Craig Layt, our highly experienced Plastic Surgeon can check these spots to confirm the type of lesion and confirm it safe to use IPL or removed if needed. Vascular lesions or spider veins, or cherry angiomas can also be treated safely with IPL and may need to be treated in conjunction with the Cutera® Coolglide laser.

Our highly experienced Dermal Therapists can assess your concerns and tailor either IPL or Laser treatments for you. Vascular lesions and brown spots can re-occur with exposure to the sun and heat, so it is important that patients comply with SPF and wear appropriate clothing protection.

What happens during the Limelight treatment?

You will be given eye shields or safety glasses to wear during the procedure. A gel will be applied to the skin for better contact, and to protect the surface of the skin by cooling it.

The Limelight handpiece is placed on the skin and a series of “shots” are performed over the area to be treated. With each shot you will briefly feel a warm sensation and a slight sting (like a rubber band snap) as the light energy is absorbed by the target. This indicates that the treatment is working. Usually no anaesthetic cream is necessary, and the treatment usually takes around 15-30 minutes depending on the area being treated. After the treatment, post laser gel will be applied to help keep the skin cool. No gym activities should be carried out for several hours after the treatment. Gym activities however can typically be resumed the following day.

What to expect after Limelight?

This is a non-invasive procedure, often with minimal downtime. Your skin may be a little red and swollen immediately after the treatment but this should resolve within a couple of hours. In most cases patients can apply makeup and return to work or resume normal activities straight away.

Pigmented areas and vascular lesions will darken and will gradually flake off and fade over the next 7-14 days.

Sun protection is essential after Limelight IPL therapy, and in between treatments. you will need to use a good SPF 30+ sunscreen to assist with the safety of your skin during treatments.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments required for a satisfactory result varies from patient to patient and the condition being treated. Our experienced dermal technicians will personalize a treatment plan based on your skin condition, skin type and your ultimate goals.

For best treatment results, our staff may also suggest other non-surgical cosmetic treatments that may be combined with IPL to maximise the benefit for your skincare needs.

What is the downtime and risks?

Great care is taken to minimise these risks, and a “test patch” (which may be hours or days prior to the actual treatment) is sometimes necessary to find the correct level of IPL energy for the individual patient.

Expected side effects include:

ResurfFX™

The Lumenis® ResurFX™ is a non-ablative fractionated laser that works by penetrating the skin by placing small channels of laser energy into the deeper skin layers to stimulate new collagen growth. ResurFX™ laser is a non-ablative laser and is designed to help reduce wrinkles, remove age spots, soften acne scars as well as tighten skin and balance skin tone.

The key advantage of ResurFX™ is that it leaves the skin’s layers intact, which can mean significant results with limited downtime. The fractional laser can be adjusted to your skin’s needs, allowing us to treat the area with only one pass of the laser, which can mean less damage to the skin, faster treatment time, and less recovery compared to other laser resurfacing options.

It aims to reduce the appearance of fine lines, sun-damaged skin, some hyperpigmentation and scarring. Often more than a single treatment is required or laser treatment can be combined with other modalities for best results. Your laser technician will recommend appropriate skin care and sun protection.

What does the Laser ResurFX™ treat?

The ResurFX™ non-ablative skin resurfacing system can address a wide range of skin issues including:

What is the difference between ablative and non-ablative lasers?

Unlike fully ablative lasers, fractional laser resurfacing, as the name suggests, only treats a fraction of the skin. The depth of the column of laser injury can also be controlled by the operator. Fractional ablative lasers such as Pearl® Laser and Erbium Yag Laser result in complete vaporisation of the tissue columns resulting in a microscopic appearance of holes within the skin. Pearl® laser works by removing layers of skin in a very precise manner until the appropriate depth is reached. It can be an option for patients who have deeper rhytids, or stubborn pigmentation spots such as seborrheic keratosis. Ablative lasers can be very effective in removing certain skin blemishes, but they do require more downtime and after care compared to the Laser Resurfx™.

What does ResurFX™ laser resurfacing treatment feel like?

Laser resurfacing with the ResurFX™ is a relatively comfortable procedure for most patients. While the laser is gentle, we apply a topical cooling gel prior to treatment to make the procedure more comfortable. You will be given a cooling fan and will likely feel a tingle in the skin and some heat. Treatments typically last 30-45 minutes, depending on the treatment area, and you should be able to resume most daily activities immediately after treatment.

What is the downtime?

After ResurFX™ laser skin resurfacing, patients generally have recovery time with some redness and swelling after the procedure. Patients can often return to their normal activities the day after the procedure. Recovery time for many individuals is usually short and relatively comfortable. Redness, swelling, and minor irritation similar to a mild sunburn may develop, but these effects typically subside in just a few days. Sun exposure before and after treatment should be avoided and a sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher should be worn 48 hours after the procedure daily and avoid direct sun exposure in between treatments.

How many ResurFX™ treatments will I need?

The number of treatments needed to achieve the desired results depends on the nature and severity of the skin problem you would like to correct. On average, patients require 3-4 treatments, spaced about six weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.

Expected Side Effects

Discomfort – during the procedure, you might experience a hot needle-pricking sensation which degree will vary per your skin condition and area sensitivity. A mild “sun-burn” sensation may follow for typically up to one hour and can be reduced with application of cooling and soothing creams.

Redness and swelling – severity and duration depend on the intensity of the treatment and the sensitivity of the area to be treated. These phenomena may be reduced with application of cooling and/or anti-inflammatory creams.

Xerosis and pruritus – within the first few days after treatment, your skin may feel itchy, tight and dry. There may be a rough texture to the surface of the skin. Regular application of gentle, fragrance free moisturisers can help reduce this sensation.

“Bronzed” appearance – within the first few days after treatment, you may develop a pinkish and/or coloured tone and discrete dry flaking. It is important you do not rub nor pick your skin which may otherwise lead to scarring. A broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen SPF 30 or greater should be applied to the area(s) to be treated whenever exposed to the sun for 2 weeks prior to the appointment and 48 hours after treatment.

Acne flare-up or reactivation of cold sores is rare for this procedure as the skin is not broken; however, if this does occur, Dr Layt can arrange adequate topical or oral antibiotics/anti-viral medications.

Pigment changes – if you are prone to pigment changes like melasma or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (pigmentation of the skin after injury) your technician will recommend a lightening serum to be used before and after your treatment.

After Care Information

Immediately after the treatment, the skin will feel hot and flushed. Ice packs wrapped in towels can be used safely on the skin for pain relief and to diminish swelling. It is important that you do not pick or rub the skin during the healing phase of your skin treatment. Sunscreen can be worn after 48 hours and light makeup after 24 hours. Strict UV avoidance for 2 weeks after the procedure is recommended. Your technician will give you samples of appropriate skin care that can be used safely for the first week after your treatment. All regular skincare products may be resumed seven days after treatment.

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis is a medical grade laser technology designed to stimulate collagen through microsecond pulses, heating the papillary and reticular dermis to address overall skin texture and more.

The treatment typically requires no downtime and usually involves only minimal discomfort, and is often suitable in treating conditions such as:

How does the treatment work?

Laser Genesis is a unique microsecond procedure using Cutera medical grade laser technology. High-power microsecond pulses at high repetition rates and heat the papillary and reticular dermis, which in turn stimulates collagen and addresses fine lines, pore size, overall skin texture and may decrease the visual appearance of scars and the visual appearance of redness microvascularly. Treatments can be performed 2 to 4 weeks apart.

What can Laser Genesis do for me?

Laser Genesis can treat the skin by shrinking large pores, evening the skin tone and smoothing out fine lines. If you suffer from light to moderate rosacea, Laser Genesis can reduce the redness. Clients with light acne scars may benefit from the production of collagen that Genesis activates. This can appear to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of scarring. Laser Genesis treatments can also be paired with in-clinic chemical peels and at-home skin care products to really target patient concerns.

Is it safe for all skin types?

Laser Genesis is suitable for all skin types. We recommend you come in for a complimentary skin analysis and consultation so we can advise best treatment options for your concerns. Due to the longer wavelength of the Laser Genesis Treatment, it can be safe for all skin types and ideal for light and medium skin tones. Genesis applies repeating pulses of low energy that slowly heat layers of the skin. Laser Genesis can be effective for treatment on the face, neck and décolletage.

Are treatments painful?

Laser Genesis is an advanced laser treatment developed by Cutera that typically involves minimal discomfort and no downtime. The laser treatment may feel like warm rain drops on the skin; it does not break the skin. Our experienced Dermal Therapists strive to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.

Post-Treatment Care

Laser Genesis does not typically require downtime and many patients often return to normal activities immediately post treatment. The skin may have some redness to it and feel a slight warming, but makeup and sunscreen can be applied immediately after if required. After all skin treatments we advise sun protection and suncare.

What should I expect?

Laser Genesis is a 30 to 60 minute treatment. There are no gels or numbing creams necessary. Your Dermal Technician will cleanse your skin, place goggles on your eyes for protection during the laser treatment, select your treatment settings and go to work. The after effect is warm skin and mild redness. Most individuals can go straight back to normal activities after the treatment.

CoolGlide Vein Therapy (Nd: Yag Laser)

Facial capillaries are very common in men and woman living in hot climates like Australia. Heredity, genetic predisposition, the ageing process, and sun damage can also weaken capillary walls making them appear more prominent. Facial capillaries known as “Telangiectasia” can be addressed with the Cutera® Nd:yag 1046 nm laser. This laser can be effective on most skin types with very little downtime.

The Cutera® Coolgide system uses a laser energy wavelength which causes the blood within the veins to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessel, which is later absorbed by the body and removed by the lymphatic system. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately, however, it is recommended that you avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after the treatment, and avoid applying any active topical products on the treated area such as vitamin a, c or lactic acid.

The Cutera® CoolGlide Vein Therapy delivers pulses of light energy which cause the blood within the vein to coagulate and eventually destroy the vessel. The unique design and long wavelength allow treatment of patients of all skin tones to address red facial veins, also known as capillaries. You will experience a slight stinging sensation as the pulses of energy are delivered through the handpiece. Following the treatment, you may experience some redness, and bruising may occur.

How many treatments are required?

Most patients will require one to four treatments but this will depend on the number, colour and size of the vessels being treated. Each patient will be assessed at the initial consult, and the number of treatments recommended depending on the size of the vessels, and treatment area. Some patients may need regular treatments if they have any hormonal or genetic dispositions. Most patients start with the area that troubles them the most, and then as they see results often return to have additional areas treated as required. Laser genesis is a great treatment that can be paired with the Cutera® Coolglide laser to help decrease the appearance of diffused redness, or rosacea skin conditions.

Am I a good candidate for laser removal of unwanted, unsightly blood vessels?

The unique design of the Cutera® Coolglide laser, and the long wavelength, allows treatment of broken capillaries in most skin types. A smaller number of treatments are needed with lighter skin types. If you are pregnant, you cannot have this treatment. Limited sun exposure and no fake tan is highly recommended to keep your skin safe during treatments.

Is this treatment uncomfortable?

The Cutera® Coolglide laser emits only light, so you may feel a tingling or snapping sensation like a rubber band during treatment. This is a non-invasive treatment that does not break the surface of the skin, so no wounds are created. The laser handpiece has an integrated cooling device which cools the skin prior to the laser. Laser gel is also applied to the skin to keep the surrounding skin cool during treatment.

While some areas of the body, such as the nose are more sensitive than others, many patients report little or no discomfort. If there is unusual discomfort, your therapist is able to apply more cooling, or adjust the settings on the laser.

What will happen after the treatment?

After the treatment you may experience some mild redness, which usually dissipates by the following day. The skin will retain heat for a few hours after the laser procedure and it is recommended to avoid heat inducing activities the day of your laser treatment, and the following day.

Once treated, will my veins reappear?

New veins may reappear in the same area or in other areas within the next few years with any heat or trauma (nose blowing). A touch-up treatment may be required to remove new veins every 1-3 years.

Pearl®

The Pearl® procedure allows us to combine the results of a resurfacing laser with the non-invasive procedures to address the skin’s surface. The Pearl® procedure can help minimize wrinkles, uneven texture and discolouration. Pearl® can also be teamed with other treatments to achieve further results. Most patients require one to two treatments of Pearl®. This treatment is available for patients with light to medium skin tones, mild to moderate sun damage or mild to moderate ageing. This treatment is performed by Dr Layt and requires 3-4 days down time. Treatments are performed at 3-6 month intervals.

The Pearl® treatment treats the top layer of the skin to remove sun damage, texture and fine lines. The layer just below the epidermis of the skin receives heat to stimulate collagen growth and a mild skin tightening effect, which can help to address fine lines and pores. Although the pearl laser is ablative it is very superficial, so it often requires very little downtime. It can also help to remove stubborn age spots like seborrheic keratosis. Seborrheic keratosis is a common benign skin lesion which can grow and feel rough to touch. Dr Craig Layt will undertake a skin assessment prior to performing any pearl laser treatments.

Who is a candidate for a Pearl® treatment?

Patients with light to medium skin tones and mild to moderate sun damage are often ideal candidates. Avoiding sun exposure pre and post treatment is important to ensure the safety of your skin, and enable you to obtain the best treatment outcome.

What is the Pearl® downtime?

Normal daily activities can typically be continued; however, you may not wish to attend important social events as your face will appear pink and dry for approximately 3-5 days.

How does a Pearl® treatment feel?

The Pearl treatment often feels like a series of brief pinches. As we apply topical numbing cream prior to treatment, however, most patients do not find this treatment excessively uncomfortable. The treatment time takes approximately 40 minutes for a full face.

How soon can I wear make-up after a Pearl® treatment?

Results are often noticeable between days 4-7, when the superficial tissue has peeled off. Make-up may be applied at this time.

How many treatments are recommended?

Some patients may require two treatments spaced approximately one month apart to achieve the desired results. But usually one treatment is sufficient, and we strongly recommend maintaining your results with the use of an SPF30 daily to reduce the affects of future sun damage.  Maintenance treatments may be recommended yearly.

Can Pearl® be part of a combination therapy treatment?

Yes, we recommend that patients have a LimeLight treatment the same day as the Pearl®. This can provide the optimal result to pick up any pigmentation under the skin. Regular facials can assist in maintaining your skin. Pearl® fusion is a combination of Pearl® and Pearl® fractional working on both layers of the skin, resurfacing at a deeper level than standalone pearl. When considering combination therapies, please discuss with your practitioner as sequencing the order of procedures is important.

Pearl® Fractional

Pearl® Fractional is a low risk but intense laser treatment performed by our experienced plastic surgeon, Dr Craig Layt, utilizing fractional laser technology that can provide significant results with just one treatment.  The treatment is a combination of Pearl® and Pearl® Fractional – the fusion of these two technologies helps produce optimal results. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

This innovative aesthetic laser resurfacing treatment can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sun damage, age spots and acne scarring. This procedure can treat the entire face and it has been uniquely successful in the delicate periorbital (around the eyes) and perioral (around the mouth) areas. Many patients can address brown spots and sun damage, tone and texture and potentially achieve a brighter complexion.

Pearl® Fractional is a medical grade laser technology that treats the skin in fractions. The benefit of using a fractionated laser is that the laser energy can be delivered much deeper into the dermis to initiate a controlled wound to stimulate collagen with much less risk and downtime than non-fractional laser treatments. Pearl® fractional is operated by Dr Layt.

How long does the procedure take?

Patients require topical anaesthetic cream on the skin for at least 30 minutes prior to having the laser treatment and the Pearl® Fractional Laser treatment will take approximately 60 minutes in rooms.

Is Pearl® Fractional Resurfacing uncomfortable?

At The Layt Clinic we like to make our patients feel as comfortable as possible during treatments. Most people describe the treatment as a series of fast, hot pinches that do not last long. A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the skin prior to the treatment to alleviate discomfort for patients. Dr Layt may also utilize local anaesthetic to decrease discomfort during the laser treatment, but this depends on the treatment area. It is best to have a driver accompany you to the appointment as you may start to feel heat and swelling after once the treatment has finished. This will feel the worst at day 1 post op, and is best to stay in a cool environment. As the skin is broken with pearl fractional, no ice can be applied to the skin, but cooled water compressions can help.

How will my skin look after Pearl® Fractional Resurfacing?

It is normal for the skin to appear red and swollen after having the Pearl® Fractional laser. There will be some discomfort, similar to a severe sunburn, but this should dissipate within a few days days of having treatment. Your skin will remain a pinkish colour for up to 2-3 weeks following the pearl laser treatment, but this can be covered with makeup from 10 days post treatment. Patients may see dramatic results from a single treatment, with optimal results often appearing one to three months following treatment.

What is the downtime with Pearl® Fractional?

There is estimated to be around one week needed for recovery, but this does not mean that you have to take time off work. There are only minor side effects, which means that you may not have to change your daily routine or manipulate your normal schedule because of treatment. After having pearl fractional resurfacing, patients must apply vaseline to the skin for four five to seven days. This should help with the healing process. In addition, it is recommended that you avoid sun exposure and wear protective clothing while you are recovering from the procedure.

Am I a suitable candidate for Pearl® Fractional Resurfacing?

Suitable candidates for Pearl® Fractional Resurfacing are typically those with light to medium skin tones and skin concerns that can be addressed with this treatment. Most patients choose pearl fractional laser because it is capable of clearing sun damaged skin, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and blending uneven pigmentation with little downtime. If this sounds like something that you are looking for then Pearl® Fractional resurfacing may be for you. For the best treatment outcomes we recommend blending the Pearl® Fractional with other treatments such chemical peels and LED light treatments to help regulate healthy skin. If you think this treatment may be suitable for you please call our rooms to book consultation with Dr Layt.

For further information on Laser Facial Rejuvenation treatments, contact The Layt Clinic.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Promotions
x