What are the differences between the two? Which one should you opt for?
With so many treatments and facials on offer, it is easy to become confused about which one is right for you. In this article, we look at Photofacial and Laser Genesis treatments.
PHOTOFACIAL
Also known as photofacial, a photofacial uses intense light to reduce redness and blemishes on the skin. IPL stands for Intense Pulse Light which is why a photofacial can also be referred to as IPL.
It is a innovative treatment, with many clients already enjoying great looking skin as a result. This is because it uses wavelengths to combat uneven skin pigmentation, as well as reduce or eliminate small broken blood vessels and wrinkles. It improves facial toning too.
Why choose a photofacial treatment?It is ideal for eliminating cosmetic problems, such as; Small broken blood vessels Rosacea Wrinkles Age spots and sun spot Freckles Variation in pigmentation Spider veins And flushing |
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But how does it work?
The laser light is absorbed by the red areas of your skin where it is changed from light to heat. This causes the pigment to ‘break up’. When used to combat small broken blood vessels or spider veins, the laser light is absorbed by the blood, causing the veins to shrink. It promotes collagen and elastin production too, leaving your skin feeling and looking more supple.
When will you see results?
Over time, the effects of photofacial increase. But after your first session, you will notice progress in the appearance of small broken vessels or facial veins, and in some pigmented areas too.
The appearance of wrinkles and toned skin will subtly and gradually over the course of each treatment. But within weeks, people will be commenting on how much more rested you look, and ask what your secret is to looking refreshed!
How many photofacials should I have?
Our clinicians will assess your skin thoroughly and recommend whether IPL or the Laser genesis or a combination of both treatments is right for you. Clients benefit most from a series of 4-6 treatments, 2 weeks apart at first, then monthly maintenance to upkeep the results.
Are there side effects after a photofacial? Can I return to work etc.?
As a non-surgical procedure, you can continue with work and social engagement after your photofacial. There are few side effects although the impact of these will depend on your skin type.
For example, some clients experience swelling or a slight darkening of pigmented areas. The redness and mild swelling disappears within a few hours. Some clients develop a striping pattern that will “sluff” off within 7-10 days or so of treatment. This is not an indication of anything being ‘wrong’, rather a sign the treatment has been effective.
However, it is important to protect your skin from the sun and so moisturize your face with a cream that contains at least SPF 30 sun block.
A photofacial takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete and with the effects growing over time, many clients find this a worthwhile procedure to invest in. Learn more about our Diamond Bright Photofacial.
LASER GENESIS
Some people will tell you that photofacial and laser genesis are ‘more or less the same’. In some ways this is true – they use similar technology and give your skin a fantastic youthful look.
In short, Laser Genesis is the treatment for mild scars, minimizing large pores, diffuse redness, kill acne bacteria and improve uneven skin tone and texture.
It works as the skin is prompted to make more collagen and elastin by the laser used in the treatment. If you want a youthful glow, as well as dealing with common cosmetic issues, then this may be treatment recommended to you.
Men and women can benefit from Laser Genesis, a treatment that is carried out over many sessions, usually around four to six. It works by the lower level of the skin, the dermis, being heated by the laser. This heat forces more collagen and elastin to be created which in turn, repairs the look and feel of your skin, giving it suppleness from the inside out. It is a process that can be done across the face and neck, although it has also be used to successfully reduce scars and stretch marks on other areas of the body.
There are no harmful side effects, no irritation or bruising. The sessions are completed in the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of our clinic.
What to expect with Laser Genesis treatment
You will need to remove all makeup, and also ensure traces of moisturizers and lotions are removed too. Facial hair will also need to be shaved and because the treatment is gentle, there is no need for numbing treatment or preparations beforehand.
The main sensation you will feel is warmth as the laser moves around your skin. As there are no side effects, there is no ‘downtime’ after treatment meaning you can go straight back to your normal, daily activities!
A small but barely noticeable side effect is slight reddening of the skin and we always suggest using a moisturizer with SPF30 to protect your skin after the treatment.
As the sessions progress, you will notice improvement to your skin which will increase over time. The changes are subtle but will make a huge difference to how you feel about your skin and thus, your confidence will soar as a result.
Most of our facials include Laser Genesis as part of the treatment. To learn more about our facials…
Which treatment is right for you?
To find out more about both treatments and the packages we offer, call to make an appointment with one of the expert clinicians. Depending on the issue and what you want to achieve, Photofacial and Laser Genesis could be the treatments you are looking for.