Phototherapy (IPL) Treatment in Columbia & Baltimore, MD

Photorejuvenation and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) are interchangeable terms often used synonymously to describe Phototherapy. Phototherapy technology utilizes the power of pulsed light to deliver excellent results in the treatment of a variety of skin conditions. At MD Laser Medicine & Surgery, Dr. Banda uses Sciton's BBL (Broad Band Light) to perform Phototherapy, which is an innovative laser technology that sets new standards for the treatment of skin conditions associated with aging, active lifestyles and sun damage. By selecting the appropriate wavelength or filter, Dr. Banda is able to treat a broad range of skin conditions caused by skin aging and sun exposure, resulting in smoother, more vibrant and youthful-looking skin. As always, individual treatment is specially tailored to match your skin condition and desired results.

CONDITIONS TREATABLE WITH PHOTOTHERAPY

Fine wrinkles
Age spots
Small facial veins (telangiectasia)
Rosacea
Redness and flushing
Solar lentigines (freckles)
Cafe' Au Lait spots
Brown spots, birth marks
Port wine stains
Red spots (hemangiomas)
Enlarged pores
Poikiloderma
Burn Erythema
Hyperpigmentation

HOW PHOTOTHERAPY WORKS

The light energy delivered by the Phototherapy laser gently heats the upper layers of the skin. The heat absorbed by the targeted areas, in turn, stimulates your skin cells to generate new collagen. This will help restore your skin to its natural beauty, blending its natural colors and making it smoother, vibrant and younger looking. In addition, the photothermal energy targets and eliminates many of the fine vessels that cause redness and the unwanted melanin responsible for pigmented lesions.

AREAS TREATABLE WITH PHOTOTHERAPY

Any area of the face and body can safely and effectively be treated with Phototherapy. The most common areas are those most exposed to the damaging effects of sun exposure such as the face, neck, back of the hands, chest and shoulders.

TREATMENT PROTOCOL

Treatment protocol will vary from patient to patient, depending on skin condition, treatment area and desired results. However, as a general guide, anywhere from two to five treatments, at two to four-week intervals, will produce remarkable results. Some patients may benefit from additional treatments depending on the severity of their skin condition and desired results. In consult with Dr. Banda, you will be provided an individualized treatment roadmap to chart the progress of your treatment.

WHAT TO EXPECT

During a typical Phototherapy treatment, your eyes will be protected from the laser with safety shields or glasses. Your procedure may take a few minutes to a half an hour depending the severity of your skin condition, the size of the treatment area and other factors. In general, most patients report feeling minimal to no discomfort during treatment. Naturally, this varies from patient to patient and depends largely on the depth of treatment. At MD Laser Medicine & Surgery, you have the option of a topical anesthetic applied about an hour before treatment to minimize any discomfort.

RECOVERY TIME

Phototherapy is a non-invasive and gentle procedure with virtually no downtime. In most cases, you will be able to return to work, apply makeup and resume most activities immediately. Following treatment, you may experience some redness, which should resolve within a few hours. For some pigmented lesions, you may see a darkening of the treated areas followed by fading and flaking off at a later stage. Following treatment, you may be provided skin care products and instructions on how to use them. It is important to closely follow Dr. Banda's post-treatment instructions in an effort to minimize your risk of inflammation or redness and ensure the shortest healing time. You will be sensitive to ultra-violet light and, therefore, must avoid direct sun exposure until fully healed. As a general rule, fully cover your skin or use a good sunscreen of at least SPF 30 prior to outdoor activities.

RESULTS

Upon completion of Phototherapy, your treated skin will feel smoother, fine wrinkles and pores will be less noticeable and sun spots or uneven pigmentation will fade. More specific results will depend on your individual condition, the number of treatments performed and treatment area. In consult with Dr. Banda, you will be provided detailed information and a timeline regarding the results you can expect.

Schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Banda today to learn more about Phototherapy and discover why MD Laser Medicine & Surgery is the region's destination for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.