FYI Cosmetics

The Thermage treatment has been around for years and has provided a way for men and women to smooth wrinkled and aging facial skin, but Body Thermage has taken this treatment to a whole new level. Thermage is an innovative new cosmetic procedure that provides individuals with a safe, non-surgical method for tightening loose skin and wrinkles through use of radiofrequency energy. Although originally used just on the face, recently Thermage has been successfully used on the body to treat the thighs, buttocks, lax abdominal skin and loose and sagging arm skin. For those men and women looking for a simply procedure that is designed to reduce the appearance of aging skin, then Body Thermage may be exactly what you need.

Skin is supported by collagen, which is a naturally occurring protein in the body that can slowly deplete due to several factors such as age, environment, diet, smoking, and sun damage. Collagen is what plumps the skin for a smooth, taught look, so as it depletes, the skin starts to loosen and sag. The Body Thermage treatment is designed to stimulate new collagen growth in areas of loose, sagging skin in order to provide men and women with a tighter more contoured shape. This non-invasive treatment accomplishes that through the use of radiofrequency (RF) technology.

The Thermage procedure uses a radiofrequency laser device called the ThermaCool TC which is specifically designed to create a controlled section of heat which penetrates into the dermis and the deeper tissue of the treatment area. Heating the collagen to specific temperatures creates a natural biological reaction that causes the collagen to contract and thicken; it is this thickening that results in the beginning of tighter, smoother skin. What makes this treatment truly fantastic is that in addition to the initial thickening of collagen, the treatment also triggers another body response. Whenever trauma or damage comes to the skin, the body’s natural reaction is to stimulate collagen growth in order to heal the skin. The heat from the radiofrequency is also designed to cause localized damage to the dermis layers of skin. This damage promotes the natural growth of collagen which in turn, adds long term effects to this skin tightening treatment.

The Body Thermage treatment is completely safe for all individuals to undergo. The low level frequency of the RF technology is designed to stimulate collagen growth without doing damage to the surrounding area or to the outer layers of skin. The heat of the treatment can cause a mild discomfort to patients, but the epidermis is constantly cooled by a cryogen spray during the procedure which is designed to cool and protect the outer layers of skin. Some patients may experience mild redness in the treatment area immediately following the procedure, but this skin redness will only last for a few hours. Patients can immediately return to their normal daily activities following treatment, and will continue to experience tighter, smoother results as the weeks pass by. One Body Thermage treatment can do wonders for any man or woman, but a series of treatments can provide successful skin tightening results that last. Learn more about Body Thermage treatments today.

Non-invasive skin tightening techniques are becoming more and more popular as individuals continue to see the lasting benefits that these treatments provide. No matter how strict our diet and exercise regiments may be, once you reach a certain age, it seems that some facial and body areas just fail to respond. Because of this, various skin tightening techniques have been developed that can smooth and tone the body in localized areas thus giving men and women a tighter more contoured look and feel. Skin tightening is a fantastic way to reduce loose and flabby facial and body skin for a smoother, tighter, more contoured shape.

As skin tightening technology has progressed, several different treatments have been developed to help men and women smooth and tighten their skin. These include Thermage, photo rejuvenation and laser skin tightening.

Thermage: The Thermage procedure was the first skin tightening treatment to become available to consumers and it is performed using a device called the ThermaCool TC. This device utilizes radiofrequency waves in order to create a controlled section of heating within the dermis and the deeper tissue of the skin, while at the same time constantly cooling and protecting the outer layers of the epidermis via a cryogen spray. By effectively heating the collagen within the dermis to a specific temperature, the heat works to create a natural biological reaction that causes the existing collagen to contract and thicken; this reaction results in the formation of tighter, smoother skin.

Photo Rejuvenation: Photo Rejuvenation, also known as PhotoFacial, is a skin tightening procedure that utilizes pulsed light technology, which is similar to laser technology but differs slightly. Pulsed Light technology involves the use of multiple wavelengths of light that reach varying penetration depths simultaneously. By concentrating the wavelengths of energy at a variety of different tissue levels, the pulsed light can stimulate collagen growth at a variety of depths. This allows for more even skin tightening results in those patients that have varying degrees of skin laxticity.

Laser Skin Tightening: Laser skin tightening treatments are innovative because they combine the technologies of both Thermage and photo rejuvenation for complete skin rejuvenation. By combining RF frequency with true laser technology, this treatment cause’s localized damage to the dermal layers of skin with promotes the natural growth of collagen. There are several different skin tightening lasers on the market today, each one is designed to target and treat varying levels of skin laxticity. Because this treatment is more intense, the results are more long lasting. After a single treatment patients experience visible results and after a series, they enjoy a smooth, contoured look that lasts.

Depending on the level of skin tightening patients are trying to achieve, one of these treatments may be better suited because different skin depths will need to be targeted and reached. We never want to think about that fact that one day we’ll wake up and realize our skin no longer has the firm, youthful look it once did, but now there are a variety of skin tightening treatments that can help to restore that smooth, wrinkle free look we all want. Find out more today about these skin tightening treatments and discover if one may be right for you.

The Pixel CO2 by Alma Lasers is a fractional CO2 skin resurfacing laser. By combining technologies, Alma has designed this laser with the effectiveness of an ablative CO2 laser with the comfort and decreased downtime of a non-ablative laser. Fractional skin resurfacing refers to the non-ablative laser treatment used to treat wrinkles, scars, pigmentation and sun damaged skin. The Pixel CO2 fractional laser treatment works by removing small portions of skin, leaving a dot or “pixel” like pattern of healthy intact skin on the surface.

By treating only a portion of the skin, the intact areas of skin are left to assist in regenerating the damaged skin tissue, thereby supporting a faster healing process. The combined technology assists in alleviating sun damaged skin, smoothing out fine lines, wrinkles and rhytids and helps with uneven pigmentation. Fractional treatments have also been reported to shrink pores and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Downtime is minimal lasting around three to six days with redness, which is reported to feel like sunburn and some swelling. The treatment is generally more cost effective than the full CO2 laser treatments for skin resurfacing due to its minimal use of anesthesia and quicker recovery time.

Pixel CO2 functions by treating a “fraction” of the skin, using an objective lens and adjustable beam to determine the depth of the laser penetration within the dermis of the skin. Topical anesthesia and an air cooling system are used for patient comfort during sessions. Typically 2-5 passes of the laser will occur during each session. The Pixel CO2 can treat all areas of the body safely. The first few days after treatment, skin feels like sand paper, as it begins to remove the old dead skin from itself. Most patients require 2-4 treatments with the greatest improvement seen between 2-3 months after last treatment, giving the skin time for complete healing. Fractional laser treatments have the ability to treat photo-damaged skin, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, shrink the appearance of pores, reduce acne scars and even out uneven pigmentation.

Unfortunately the aging process cannot be stopped. While the results from the fractional CO2 treatments are long lasting, they are not permanent. Future treatments may be required to maintain the acquired results. Fractional laser resurfacing can be used in conjunction with injectables such as BOTOX® cosmetic and dermal fillers for very effective and satisfying results.

The Pixel CO2 Omnifit is the solution for those practices that have a CO2 laser system but would like to offer a fractional CO2 treatment without the downtime or discomfort. The Omnifit is a hand piece that can fit most traditional CO2 laser devices. It has the ability to utilize the ablative approach of skin resurfacing, delivering highly effective treatments with increased patient comfort as well as the convenience and minimal recovery time of a non ablative treatment. Now treating sun-damaged skin, fine lines and wrinkles and rhytids can be done with less than a week of recovery time verses weeks or even months with the traditional CO2 skin resurfacing treatments.

The GentleMax laser from Candela combines the best of both worlds, the gold standard GentleLase alexandrite laser for hair removal and the multipurpose GentleYAG laser in one convenient package. The two lasers in one package allow for smoother transitions between treatment types as well as conserve space for the practitioner. Candela continues to use the dynamic cooling device as a means of skin coolant and protection during treatments and with the Gentle Max this is no exception. This two in one laser can provide treatment for hair removal on all skin types, facial and leg veins, pseudo follicular barbae (beard bumps), pigmented lesions, age or sun spots, freckles, vascular lesions, wrinkle reduction and skin tightening.

The Alexandrite laser portion of the GentleMax is a 755 nm wavelength of light that is excellent for hair removal, as well as some vascular treatments and pigmentation spots. While it does have the ability to treat all skin types, it is best slated for the lighter skin colors known as the Fitzpatrick’s I- IV. The vascular lesions such as hemangiomas, venous lakes and blue facial veins can also be effectively eliminated as well as the reduction of some facial wrinkles. Typical hair removal treatments initiate the use of the dynamic cooling device or DCD to cool and protect the skin during the session. The rapid evaporative cooling also assists in maximizing comfort as well the providing epidermal protection which aides in faster recovery.

The YAG laser portion of the GentleMax utilizes the 1064nm wavelength of light. YAG wavelengths are excellent and safe for their ability to provide permanent hair reduction on tanned or very dark skin, as well as effectively eliminate spider veins, reduce wrinkles and tighten skin. With its use of long pulse high energy laser light technology, the beam of light that is emitted passes through the skin where it is absorbed by the targets without risk or damage to the surrounding skin. The GentleYAG provides superior non invasive non ablative methods to reduce wrinkles and tighten the skin on the face, neck and larger areas of the body. Laser facials with the YAG treat superficially to reduce wrinkles virtually painlessly with almost immediate results. YAG skin tightening treats the deeper dermis causing a thermal reaction to stimulate collagen beneath the surface of the skin causing skin to be firmer and tighter. Results can be seen in 4 to 6 weeks with 4 treatments needed to achieve optimal results.

The GentleMax provides several spot sizes to be able to customize the many cosmetic procedures this system can provide. A major benefit with the use of the Candela lasers is that it provides for the largest treatment spot size in industry. In regards to laser hair removal for example the 18 mm spot size can treat a man’s back in 30 minutes, as opposed to smaller spot sizes that can take an hour or more to treat. The varieties of treatment target sizes are available to maximize the effectiveness of each pulse for both the alexandrite and YAG lasers. The flexible pulse duration and adjustable epidermal cooling technology also allow for maximum patient safety and comfort. With the highly innovated computer controls and touch screen, deciding on treatment parameters are made easy when the proper treatment and skin types are put in the system. Not only is the GentleMax easy to use, but it will also provide consistent and reproducible results time and again.

The GentleYAG by Candela is a safe effective laser that can be used for a variety of cosmetic skin issues that previously may not have been able to be treated successfully. While YAG lasers are known for their ability to provide permanent hair reduction on tanned or very dark skinned patients, this laser is also effective for eliminating spider veins as well as reducing wrinkles and tightening loose skin on the face and other areas of the body. Using long pulse high energy laser light technology, the emitting beam of light from the GentleYAG passes through the skin where it is absorbed by the target without risk to the surrounding skin.

Candela lasers have the ability to utilize non toxic cryogen as part of a skin cooling system. Called the Dynamic cooling Device or DCD, cryogen, which has a very fast evaporation rate, is sprayed onto the skin milliseconds before the beam of high intensity laser light hits the skin. The rapid evaporation provides a cooling effect that assists in decreasing discomfort while maximizing protection to the outer layer of the skin. The DCD also assists in speeding treatment times by eliminating the need for cooling gels that are often applied prior to treatment as well as some costly topical numbing agents. Healing is also rapid, as hair follicles are targeted, but the surrounding skin and tissues are left intact making for an all around more pleasant procedure. The GentleYAG is optimal for darker pigmented skin such as the Fitzpatrick Skin types V-VI for laser hair removal. The GentleYAG targets the pigment inside the hair follicle during the growth phase of the hair cycle, leaving the surround tissue undisturbed. A minimum of 3-5 treatments 6-8 weeks apart are required to achieve desired results.

This laser is also an excellent non invasive, non ablative method to tighten skin on the face, neck and other areas of the body. The “Laser facial” is a rapid virtually painless way for the YAG laser to lessen or even eliminate wrinkles. No downtime or topical anesthetic is needed for this procedure that can achieve almost immediate results. Treatments require a series of rapid high intensity laser light pulses to be passes quickly over the skin to heat the targeted areas superficially. Most patients leave the office that day with a smile and less wrinkles.

Skin tightening is achieved by transferring heat into the deepest layers of the dermis. The effect is a thermal injury below the skin that encourages a healing response stimulating the collagen to “restart” itself. When enough of the body’s own collagen is reactivated wrinkles and sagging skin begin to reduce giving a smoother more youthful appearance. For some, results can be seen within a few days; however most will see improvement for at least 4-6 weeks. Generally 4 treatments are needed for optimal results. For this procedure a topical numbing cream is applied 30-60 minutes prior to the treatment. With GentleYAG skin tightening the skin appears to have the look of mild sunburn immediately after the treatment. Once the redness subsides there is minimal to no downtime reported after the treatment.

An additional benefit of this Candela laser is how it effectively treats spider veins, and other small vascular anomalies. Again treatments are fast, effective and safe with only one to two treatments needed to achieve desired results.

The newest laser to join the Candela family of lasers is the QuadraLASE. QuadraLASE is a fractional CO2 laser that brings laser skin resurfacing to a new level, by incorporating an innovative scanning technology called the QuadraSCAN. This scanning technology assists in minimizing the thermal buildup within the skin and increases comfort during the procedure. The beauty of the QuadraLASE is it combines the effectiveness of the carbon dioxide lasers of the past with the new fractional technology and requires no disposables. Years ago CO2 laser skin resurfacing was the Gold Standard as a powerful wrinkle remover and over all skin rejuvenator and skin firmer. However the recovery time and side effects were long and harsh. This new version of fractional CO2 laser treatment has the ability to deliver powerful results with less downtime and fewer side effects and complications.

As the skin goes through the natural aging process the main protein within the skin that keeps it wrinkle free, collagen, begins to break down. This break down is assisted by exposure to the sun and other environmental factors. Laser skin resurfacing is the process of removing the upper surface layers of skin to decrease lines, even out pigmentation, reduce acne scars, reduce pore size and assist in the rebuilding of the body’s own collagen. The heat from the laser as well as the skin injury stimulates the natural collagen into production. The results produce softer, smoother, more even toned, youthful looking skin. The ablative forms of skin resurfacing generally penetrate deep into the skin layers to remove or vaporize heavy wrinkles, acne scars and some forms of pigmentation. Significant down time, usually associated with severe redness, swelling and oozing are the typical reactions. Healing takes place as the skin begins to regenerate itself, revealing fresh new revitalized, tighter skin.

Fractional CO2 skin resurfacing will ablate a portion of the skin to treat photo-damage, wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation. The treatment works by treating a “fraction” of the skin. This means the laser will create areas of treated tissue that is surrounded by untreated healthy tissue. The QuadraLASE targets a pattern into the skin leaving micro portions of the skin intact, generally in a dot or pixel like pattern. The laser creates narrow deep columns that extend into the epidermis and in some cases into the dermis with an intense micro-beam of light. The intact areas maintain the tissue’s stability as the treated areas begin to heal, assisting in faster healing. Topical anesthesia and an air cooling system are used for patient comfort during the treatment. Patients are required to remain out of the sun as well as use a sunscreen of at least 30spf during the healing phase as well to optimize results.

While some will see some immediate improvements, the greatest progress is seen between 3-6 months after last treatment, giving the skin time for complete healing and collagen rebuilding. To further enhance the powerful results the fractional CO2 laser dermal fillers and injectables such as BOTOX cosmetic can be used. The results provide for very effective and satisfying results.
Determining if the QuadraLASE is right for you should be made with your cosmetic physician.

Restylane® is a cosmetic skin enhancement known as a dermal filler. It is the number one selling dermal filler on the market today. Dermal fillers can instantly restore volume to the skin and smooth and refine wrinkles and the skin folds of the face. Fillers assist in reversing the effects of aging by returning the skin surface to its more youthful state. Restylane is a safe non allergenic smooth clear gel that is made up of hyaluronic acid to achieve a long lasting “quick fix”. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance within the skin that helps retain natural moisture and adds volume and hydration. In select areas Restylane® can replace what is lost in the skin as the body ages. As opposed to other similar dermal fillers like collagen there is no need for any skin testing prior to treatments because the hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in the body. Restylane® is injected into the mid to deep dermis to help correct moderate to severe wrinkles quickly and instantly. Treatments provide a naturally smooth look so skin appears smoother with fewer wrinkles. The results make you look great without being obvious. Restylane® is excellent for smile lines, laugh lines or those parentheses lines that show up from the nose to the mouth.

A typical Restylane® treatment can be done on the way home from work, the gym or even on a lunch break. The amount of filler needed is dependent upon the severity and depth of the wrinkles to be treated or the lips to be enhanced. Prior to the procedure a review of your previous medical history will be completed by the physician or their staff. The soft tissue of your face will be examined to determine the depth of the wrinkles and skin folds. For an even more customized treatment Perlane® is available. Perlane® is also made up of hyaluronic acid however it has larger gel particles and is intended to go deeper within the skin for more intense wrinkles. Before and after photographs are generally taken to see the noticeable difference after treatment.

Anesthesia is not required. However some may prefer to have a topical anesthetic or a nerve block to numb the treatment area. Once ready, a very small needle is inserted under the skin to allow the gel to fill wrinkles, plump the skin and lips, fill in the hollows under the eyes and even contour cheeks. Several injections on the same visit may be required to achieve the desired goal. A typical Restylane® session often takes less than 15 minutes with improvement seen immediately. Many people require only one session to have the wrinkles smoothed away for up to one year. Results vary and some clients may require periodic “touch up” treatments. Restylane® is able to produce excellent cosmetic results time after time with effects lasting at least 6 months. Treatments boast minimal to no down or recovery time. Side effects include redness, swelling, bruising and pain at the injection site, which do not last more than a few days. Additional side effects can include firmness and bumps that may last up to a week.

Dermal fillers like Restylane® are one of the fastest growing non surgical treatments for facial wrinkles in the US today. Keeping in mind that all dermal fillers are not created equal it is prudent to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable cosmetic physician to determine if Restylane® is right for you.

The most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure performed in the United States is Botox®. This FDA approved treatment is a solution that is injected into the skin to quickly and effectively eliminate some of the facial lines and wrinkles caused by the environmental, age and stress. Originally Botox® was designated to treat eye muscle disorders. However doctors observed an unusual side effect of the treatment was that the Botox softened the frown lines between the eyebrows. Made from Clostridium Botulinum bacterium, Botulinum Toxin Type A (aka Botox®) has been proven effective in several medical applications such as decreasing muscle spasticity, jaw clenching, migraine headaches and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in addition to its fast effective aesthetic abilities. Botox® works to temporarily reduce the muscle activity that causes those frown and squint lines around the forehead and eyes.

Wrinkles can be generated from the movement of facial muscles as we make expressions. With the passage of time, the continuous movement of the facial muscles can often increase the depth of these wrinkles and make them appear more pronounced How does Botox® Cosmetic work to eliminate the fine lines and wrinkles? A small amount of the solution is injected in several places along the muscle that has created the wrinkle. As the solution begins to take effect, the nerve impulses within the muscle are blocked causing the muscle to begin to relax and weaken. When the muscle is weak and relaxed it is physically unable to form a wrinkle. Because of this, the skin that lies over the treated muscle becomes smooth making the lines and wrinkles disappear almost magically.

Improvement to the treated areas can be seen in a little as 3 days and as long as 2 weeks after the initial injections. Occasionally complete relaxation of the treated muscle is not achieved and a touch up to area may be required. Areas of the forehead, around and between the eyes can achieve a smoothing of the moderate to severe lines without downtime or surgery. Treatments can take only a few minutes and do not require any sedation or anesthesia. Discomfort during the treatments in minimal. Results of treatments can last from one to five months and sometimes longer with repeated treatments.

Ideal candidates for Botox® Cosmetic are those who want to see an improvement in the lines and wrinkles noted on their forehead, between and around their eyes. These candidates usually do not yet need or want to commit to a surgical procedure at this time or they are unable to have a surgery. Botox® is also used in conjunction with other facial procedures such as face lifts or laser resurfacing and skin tightening to enhance the cosmetic outcomes. As with any procedure there are some minimal side effects that have been noted. Not everyone will experience these side effects and in most cases tolerate the procedure very well. The possible side effects include slight discomfort during the injection, bruising at the site of injection and for a very small percentage of people (less than 3%) the development of a droopy eyelid known as ptosis. This will usually return to normal as the solution wears off.

Botox® is proven safe and effective for most people and has been used on millions of people for several years. If facial wrinkles and fines lines are your concern consider Botox® cosmetic and consult your cosmetic physician to determine if it right for you.

In the realm of non ablative lasers, Candela offers the VBeam series. Known for being the industry’s Gold Standard, the VBeam is a pulse dye laser that can be used to treat a variety of vascular and pigmentation issues. The pulse dye laser delivers an intense but gentle burst of light into selective colors of the skin for safe and effective treatments. The light energy produced targets the chromophore oxyhemoglobin, the predominant protein in red blood cells. The heat energy is then absorbed by the specific blood vessels or pigmentation that has been targeted within the dermis and is then destroyed. The VBeam treats skin anomalies while saving the surrounding tissues. The vascular and skin issues that can successfully be treated with the VBeam series include port wine stains, rosacea, hemangiomas, Poikilderma of Civatte, dyschromia and small veins on the face and legs less than 3mm in diameter. Added benefits of this laser include photorejuvenation and treatment of fine lines and wrinkles.

The VBeam series offers three versions of this laser to fit individual practice needs. The Aesthetica performs skin rejuvenation by improving skin tone. It effectively removes red veins and discoloration. Because it has limited itself to just aesthetic treatments, this model in the series can also be upgraded to include additional parameters of treatment. The Platinum VBeam can treat a broad range of vascular lesions, rosacea, acne, port wine stains and both facial and leg veins. Uniform and consistent heating time after time provides consistently excellent results with minimal to no bruising of the treated areas. And finally, the VBeam Perfecta. The Perfecta is a combination of the first two lasers. The Perfecta does it all from skin rejuvenation for fine lines, wrinkles and skin tone, to rosacea and red veins, to pigmented areas and much more. With the patented Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) along with micro-pulse technology, the Perfecta offers practically no down time and no bruising or purpura to the skin.

All of the VBeam lasers utilize an easy access touch screen to provide guidelines for safe starting energies for patient treatment parameters, making the operative of the laser easy to use. The micropulse technology allows gentle vessel healing to eliminate downtime and provide effective and consistent results. With the VBeam anesthesia needs are minimal to non existent because of the DCD.

Determining factors as to whether or not lesions can be treated will depend on the color, age, location and type of lesion. Ideal treatments should result in elimination of the target with no hypo-pigmentation, hyper-pigmentation, scarring or change in skin texture. Wrinkles and broken capillaries from sun damage can be lessened and even eliminated with a series of treatments. Stretch marks and scars can also be treated effectively as the light energy removes the redness and stimulates collagen production to decrease the look of the scar.

For most 2-5 treatments as 6 week intervals are required for maximum benefits. Side effects can include redness or mild swelling in the treated area immediately following treatment, usually resolving within a few hours to a few days. Occasionally a laser bruise (purpura) may occur. Purpura is short lived and will often disappear in less than a week. It is recommended to avoid the sun before and throughout treatments for the most effective results. Many patients report seeing a difference immediately with a feeling of firming or tightening to the treated area. Results vary depending on the area being treated and multiple treatments may be needed for clearance of vascular lesions.

The Alma Harmony XL has broken all the barriers in aesthetic laser technology to bring practitioners and patients a device that provides ten different technologies that are capable of treating over 60 popular aesthetic treatments; to date, there is no other laser device that can compare.  In the trying times of this aesthetic industry, the Harmony allows practitioners to minimize their investment while maximizing on treatment potential.  So what does this mean for patients?  More affordable treatments that provide lasting results—this technology provides a winning situation for all.

In the short amount of time that laser technology has been available to consumers; great strides have been made to advance the technology to a point where it made sense for both patients and practitioners.  In the past, separate laser devices have been needed to treat each aesthetic ailment, therefore in order to provide a wide arrange of treatments, practitioners needed to invest in a wide variety of aesthetic technology.  Laser devices don’t come cheap therefore financially, for many practitioners, having multiple laser devices didn’t make sense.  However, the introduction of the Harmony XL by Alma brought about an aesthetic laser revolution.  Now, this one device can do the work of ten, and this allows patients to receive safe, effective results for over 60 aesthetic laser procedures.

While the Harmony has applications for dozens of procedures, it is most often used to treat the following:

Hair Removal – With the addition of the AFT 650 handpiece (before only available on the Alma Soprano XL), the Harmony can now also offer Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ treatments to all men and women.  This specialized handpiece eliminates the need for topical anesthetics and other cooling devices.  Patients can now experience smooth, hair free lasting results easily and painlessly.

Skin Rejuvenation – Alma’s Laser360™ complete skin rejuvenation treatment combines three technologies utilized over 60 days to bring patients complete skin rejuvenation.  This application gets patients a complete range of skin rejuvenation results, the most apparent of which are anti-aging techniques.  These technologies are completely safe for rejuvenation of the face, neck, chest, hands or anywhere else patients harbor signs of aging or photo damage.

Acne & Acne Scar Removal – The AFT 420 acne handpiece allows the Alma Harmony to successfully treat problem acne.  The blue light wavelengths effectively target the porphyrins that are produced when p. acnes bacteria is naturally metabolized.  The integration between the porphyrins and the blue light creates oxygen which rapidly destroys these bacteria without damaging the surrounding tissue.  This can effectively reduce problem acne without the need for more invasive techniques.

Tattoo Removal – The Q-Switched Nd: YAG handpiece on the Harmony XL is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos.  This handpiece incorporates two different laser wavelengths—1064nm and 532nm to treat a wide arrange of tattoo colors.  By incorporating a handpiece that utilizes this dual wavelength technology, practitioners can remove multi-colored tattoos seamlessly.

Vascular & Pigmented Lesions – Some of the tell tale signs of aging include vascular and pigmented lesions.  In order to maintain a more uniform complexion, the Alma Harmony XL utilizes the AFT 540 VP handpiece for the safe and effective reduction of both vascular and pigmented lesions.  This technology works to target and treat these ailments, the laser light penetrates into the treatment area, targets the lesions and utilizes the heat from the laser energy to effectively break apart the pigmented area, thus giving the skin younger look overall.

Wrinkles – To help remove wrinkles and fine lines for a younger appearance, patients can undergo treatments on the Harmony XL with the 1320 Nd: YAG handpiece.  This handpiece is specially designed to reach deeper within the skins layers to target water-containing tissue.  The laser energy heats this water-containing tissue which effectively raises the dermal temperature.  This rise in temperature is the catalyst for the natural production of collagen; it is that collagen that works to fill in lines and wrinkles for a smoother, younger appearance.