Understanding the power of light-based treatment for signs of ageing, damage
At o41 clinic, our medical professionals have carefully researched and selected advanced light- and laser-based treatments to bring out the best in your skin. Our team in Vancouver, British Columbia, also carefully selects the most appropriate technology or system to address your specific skin concerns – whether it’s tightening lax or saggy skin, or softening the appearance of visible pores. With so many options, there is certain to be a treatment well-suited to your needs, goals, and personal characteristics (like your skin type).
What type of light-based treatments do you offer?Â
These treatments are largely categorised as either lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL). Lasers deliver therapeutic energy to targeted areas of the skin as a single, intense wavelength and focused beam of light. IPL uses broad-spectrum, visible light in multiple wavelengths. While the laser beam is focused, IPL is scattered, so some skin conditions are better treated with lasers or vice versa. Lasers available at o41 clinic include the ClearLift Plus by Alma® Lasers. IPL treatment may be completed with the Lumecca system by InMode. We even have a “hybrid” technology that combines a pulsed dye laser with IPL – the DyeVL by Alma® Lasers.
How does the ClearLift Plus work?Â
ClearLift Plus is a non-ablative (non-wounding) laser. When directed toward your areas of concern, it delivers powerful energy deep into the dermis. This design allows us to treat deeply and stimulate beneficial structural changes deep in the skin without damaging or removing the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis). This process of emitting powerful yet short bursts of pulses of light creates microscopic openings under the skin’s surface, which encourages the body’s natural healing response. New collagen and elastin fibres are stimulated to tighten and firm up wrinkled, lax skin. These ultra-short pulses also break apart pigmentation to fade dark spots.
In contrast, how does IPL work?
Technologies that use intense pulsed light largely target and treat surface-level skin concerns. The intense light that is delivered and generated targets the “chromophores” or pigments. These include the melanin pigment associated with hyperpigmentation, such as freckles and “age spots,” as well as the hemoglobin associated with skin concerns like cherry angiomas and broken capillaries. It also has a collagen-boosting effect and may be appropriate for enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles, and other early or more modest signs of ageing. When chromophores absorb light, it is converted into heat, selectively damaging mottled and discoloured areas. The heat generated also causes a mild thermal injury in the deeper layers of the skin, triggering natural healing and the production of new collagen and elastin.
Which treatment is better for me?Â
Due to its ability to treat deeply, ClearLift Plus is a versatile treatment. It both minimises fine lines and pores, while also improving the appearance of more severe laxity and wrinkling on the face, neck, and decolletage. IPL therapies are generally associated with the treatment of discolouration, whether it be the redness of rosacea or dark spots and spider veins caused by sun damage. ClearLift Plus and IPL are procedures with little to no downtime. Treatments are a well-tolerated alternative to invasive surgical procedures and more aggressive nonsurgical aesthetic procedures. Lastly, these treatments are suitable for most skin types and tones (though IPL may not be appropriate for individuals with very dark skin, or we may need to exercise caution when treating them).
Can treatments be combined?Â
Yes! In fact, IPL and ClearLift Plus/other laser therapies are often used interchangeably, because it is not unusual for them to be combined into a patient’s personalised treatment plan. They may be used in conjunction with each other to support more comprehensive skin rejuvenation.
To find out what treatment(s) may be most appropriate for you, schedule a consultation today! Phone o41 clinic at (604) 200-6889 to speak with a member of our team in Vancouver, BC. We are conveniently located at the Oakridge Mall (medical/dental tower).
