Lumenis Frequently Asked Questions
HAIR REMOVAL
Q: How does the LightSheerTM Diode Laser System work?
A: The system emits near-infrared laser light that is absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicle. The laser is pulsed, or turned on, for only a fraction of a second. The duration of each pulse is just long enough to damage the follicle, while the system's unique, patented contact-cooling handpiece, the ChillTipTM, helps protect the skin by conductive cooling during the laser energy delivery.Q: What advantages does the LightSheer have over other laser hair removal systems?
A: The LightSheer Diode Laser System was designed from the ground up for laser hair removal, so it has the wavelength, fluence, pulse width, and active epidermal cooling system - the ChillTipTM ideally suited for laser hair removal. The system is small, compact, and (in some models) portable, so it fits well into virtually every type of existing practices. The system's solid state construction makes it durable; it's state-of-the-art user interface makes it easy to use. Finally, LumenisTM has been in the business of making medical and cosmetic lasers for more than 30 years, so we've been able to develop unparalleled service and support—from our extensive training and practice building resources to our stand-alone systems' 24-hour replacement service. No other hair removal system offers the same combination of product excellence and customer service and support.Q: Why should I use the LightSheer Diode Laser System rather than the methods I've been using for years?
A: The LightSheer Diode Laser System's design provides for enhanced comfort during treatment, minimal risk of infection, speed and accuracy. Since the system uses a unique cooling handpiece, it minimizes skin irritation that other methods may create. Since it is non-invasive (no needles to penetrate the skin), the risk of introducing bacteria into the skin is reduced. Because the system is fast, it allows for larger areas to be treated, considerably increasing the efficiency of the hair removal process, which allows more patients to be treated during a typical day. Finally, the LightSheer Diode Laser is a precise instrument that can be adjusted to damage only the hair follicle while minimally affecting the surrounding skin.Q: Does the LightSheer work on tanned or different skin colors?
A: The LightSheer diode laser system safely and effectively treats all skin types (Fitzpatrick Skin Types I-VI) as well as tanned skin. For darker skin types and people with tans, appropriate fluences are generally lower and appropriate pulse widths are generally longer to prevent damage to the epidermis. Using the appropriate treatment parameters, however, people with all skin types can benefit from laser hair removal with the LightSheer.IPL SKIN TREATMENTS USING PHTOREJUVENATION
Q: What are IPL Skin Treatments using PhotoFacials?
A: IPL Technology improves the appearance of photoaged skin, removes age spots (sun-induced freckles), most benign brown pigments, and redness caused by broken capillaries through a process called PhotoFacials for face and body. IPL Skin Treatments using PhotoFacials help restore a more youthful appearance without the patient downtime.Q: Are patients satisfied with the results of this gentler, more delicate approach?
A: IPL Skin Treatments using PhotoFacials are recognized for a very high measure of patient satisfaction. Patients are very pleased with treatment results because the process treats the full face, neck, chest or hands, rather than addressing a single isolated area or imperfection. With a series of treatments, IPL technology can help restore a more youthful appearance without patient downtime or a prolonged recovery necessary after other types of treatments.Q: You frequently mention the versatility of IPL technology. Am I going to pay extra for capabilities that I don't need?
A: No. Lumenis has developed its product lines so that practices with a singular focus can purchase dedicated equipment, while practices performing multiple procedures can acquire single platforms with multiple applications. Even better, most Lumenis IPL devices like the IPLTM Quantum system, the VascuLightTM system, and the Lumenis OneTM system can be easily upgraded if you choose to expand your practice in the future - you simply purchase add-ons rather than an entire new piece of equipment. Additionally, as new components and/or applications are developed, these may be offered as upgrades for existing customers.COSMETIC REPIGMENTATION
Q: What is ReLume Repigmentation Phototherapy?
A: ReLume Repigmentation Phototherapy is a targeted light technology for the selective repigmentation of leukoderma. ReLume is the first advanced technology to offer a practical and convenient solution for treatment of skin that has diminished pigmentation. For leukoderma that occurs on stretch marks, acne scars, post-surgical and traumatic scars, grafted skin, burns and laser-resurfaced or chemically peeled skin, lost pigment can now be restored safely and effectively, often within just weeks.Q: How does ReLume Repigmentation Phototherapy work?
A: The ReLume system’s unique light-based therapy improves the appearance of leukoderma by pigmenting affected skin. The precise delivery of therapeutic light enhances melanin production to darken the lesion so it more closely resembles the surrounding healthy skin. 6 – 12 weekly treatments are routinely needed to restore 75% or more of the lost pigment. The number of treatments required may vary according to the origin of the hypopigmentation and skin type. Prolonged improvement can be achieved through maintenance treatments.Q: What skin conditions does ReLume treat?
A: The ReLume has received marketing clearance from the FDA for the treatment of leukoderma (skin that has reduced pigmentation such as white, mature stretch marks, acne scars, traumatic and surgical scars, skin grafts, burns and laser-resurfaced and chemically peeled skin). ReLume is intended for use on all skin types (I - VI).Q: How do ReLume treatments compare to topical creams and other treatment alternatives?
A: According to physicians, conventional therapies are largely ineffective in treating hypopigmented mature stretch marks and scars. Now, the ReLume provides an innovative and effective leukoderma solution with no downtime.Q: What do patients experience during ReLume treatments?
A: Treatments are fast and non-invasive. Physicians or staff members can administer rapid treatments during a patient’s lunch hour. Patients experience no discomfort during the procedure and can resume normal daily activities immediately afterwards. Patients may experience minor and temporary erythema or irritation after treatments. These side effects are no more extensive than a mild sunburn.LASER SKING RESURFACING
Q: How do CO2 laser treatments work?
A: With facial resurfacing, a high-energy beam of CO2 light is used to vaporize lines, wrinkles, scars, dark spots and other irregularities, layer by layer. This process also stimulates the formation over time of new, underlying collagen to provide better elasticity and support for the skin.With an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, the CO2 laser removes loose skin, and if present, fat pads. On the lower lid, fat pads are removed with no visible incision and no stitches. Because the laser beam seals blood vessels as it touches them, the physician can clearly judge how much tissue to remove, and there is less swelling and bruising than with traditional eyelifts.
Q: Can CO2 laser technology be used less invasively for treating milder indications?
A: With Lumenis' CO2 laser technology, skin resurfacing is so precise that you can tailor treatment according to the nature and extent of skin damage, skin type and individual requirements for recovery time. For instance, CO2 LiteTM is a unique control on the UltraPulse® EncoreTM CO2 laser system that allows you to achieve a superficial laser peel with just one pass. CO2 LiteTM utilizes fluences that are below the ablation threshold and with a single pass imparts intraepidermal coagulation that is confined to the epidermis with little to no thermal injury in the dermis. The epidermis is typically left intact and serves as a natural wound dressing. The coagulated epidermis sloughs off in 3-5 days. Healing times and aesthetic outcome are similar to treatment with 3-5 passes of ablative erbium. Offering both superior results for treating deep wrinkles and the ability to achieve controlled superficial resurfacing, the UltraPulse® Encore is the most logical choice for an "all-in-one" resurfacing laser.Q: What results can my patients expect, and how long will the benefits of treatment last?
A: Laser resurfacing can restore your patient's skin to a healthy state, similar to that of skin that has not experienced sun damage or scarring. With proper sun protection, results can persist for more than five years. In areas where muscle activity is strong, lines may begin to reappear sooner. After laser eyelid surgery, the cosmetic improvement is usually sustained. Typically, only one blepharoplasty procedure is needed to remove excess skin and fat pads. As skin continues to age at a normal rate, you may advise your patient to maintain results with a 'touch-up' resurfacing treatment. In any event, with cosmetic laser surgery you will have definitively 'turned back the clock.'Q: What are the advantages of using authentic CO2 vs. erbium lasers that lengthen pulse width in an effort to achieve clinical results similar to CO2?
A: A bilateral study comparing resurfacing with long pulse erbium:YAG followed by traditional short-pulse erbium ablation to UltraPulse® CO2 followed by short-pulse erbium ablation (Rostan E, Goldman M, Fitzpatrick R. Laser Resurfacing With a Dual-Mode, Long-Pulse Erbium:YAG Laser Compared to the 950-µs Pulsed CO2 Laser. Am J Cosmetic Surg. 2000; 17(4):227-231.) found that there was no statistical difference in healing between the two sides and in 5 patients (26%), greater clinical improvement in periorbital lines, perioral lines, or both was noted on the UltraPulse® CO2 side. (A reprint of this article can be ordered from the Lumenis web site, Lumenis Lit. # 5448).The value of utilizing authentic CO2:
When addressing moderate to severe rhytids, true high-energy short-pulsed CO2 technology has proven to be the superior modality. Physicians report that continued, progressive improvement in solar elastosis is seen post UltraPulse® CO2 laser resurfacing. The hemostatic effect only afforded by CO2 provides superior visualization of clinical endpoints. For surgical incisions, the cutting ability of CO2 is unsurpassed.
Q: How is the new UltraPulse® Encore CO2 laser system different than the previous generation UltraPulse® products?
A: The new UltraPulse® Encore was designed utilizing the latest hardware and software technology and, just like a PC, it has become smaller, more reliable and less expensive. In fact, the new UltraPulse® Encore is 60% smaller in size than previous models. It also features a convenient one-touch CO2 Lite™ control for superficial resurfacing. In addition, the UltraScanTM CPG was redesigned to offer real-time position feedback meaning that every single spot position within the preselected CPG pattern area is verified before laser energy is delivered. Finally, the new UltraScan Encore CPG offers CoolScan™ random scanning sequence, which allows more time for tissue to cool between adjacent spots within the pattern.LEG VEINS
Q: How does Lumenis' Nd:YAG technology eliminate deeper, larger veins as well as superficial ones?
A: Lumenis integrates IPL technology with multiple synchronized pulsed, high-energy Nd:YAG laser technology in a single system to successfully address the complexity of vessel networks, including many reticular and feeder vessels previously treated only with injection therapy. The near-infrared Nd:YAG (1064 nm) component obtains ideal penetration into the skin, providing unparalleled performance in the treatment of deeper blue vessels; the shorter wavelengths are optimal for treatment of shallower, smaller leg veins.Q: What are the advantages of Lumenis' Nd:YAG technology?
A: Lumenis' proprietary Nd:YAG technology provides synchronized pulsing action to selectively heat blood vessels of different sizes and depths. The wavelength of light and pulsing characteristics of the system allow the energy to easily pass through the melanin barrier, thus protecting the skin. This also allows treatment on any skin type at any time during the year. Further, normally a few shots typically achieves complete closure and sealing of the vessels. With the new cooled Nd:YAG treatment head, available in the IPL Quantum DL, VascuLight Elite, and Lumenis One systems (and as an upgrade to other systems), patient comfort has been increased.Q: How does high-tech laser/light technology compare to traditional sclerotherapy?
A: The combined light sources offer important benefits over injection therapy: fast and virtually pain-free treatment; minimally invasive therapy with no needles; and no compression wrapping.VASCULAR AND PIGMENTED LESIONS
Q: What product solutions are available to treat vascular lesions?
A: Depending on the specific nature of the condition, Lumenis offers two key solutions to treatment of benign vascular lesions. Its IPL family, featuring the IPL Quantum product line, the VascuLight platform, and the Lumenis One platform, successfully treats a broad range of vascular conditions including telangiectasia, port wine stains, hemangiomas, etc.Q: How does Lumenis One treat mature hemangioma?
A: Mature hemangiomas can be rather thick, namely part of them is superficial and part is deep. Lumenis One is equipped with two treatments heads that can take care of the hemangioma. The Nd:YAG head can be used first to reach the deeper parts of the lesion, while being marginally absorbed by the superficial telangiectasia that often sprout on top of the hemangioma. Excessive heat production is thus eliminated. Following a few sessions with the Nd:YAG, the IPL can be used to treat the remaining superficial blood vessels.Q: Some pigmented lesions have to be removed surgically, as they are potentially harmful. Can they be treated by IPL instead?
A: Technically, it is possible to treat such pigmented lesions with IPL and diminish their brown color. However, doing so does not affect the pre-malignanat cells; it only obscures them and delays the diagnosis. It is therefore essential prior to IPL treatment of any suspect pigmented lesion to consult a dermatologist.Q: Can we treat hairy pigmented lesions?
A: Yes, it is possible to treat this type of lesion with IPL, due to the versatility of filters. IPL with longer filters can penetrate deeper than IPL with short filters. Thus, a shorter filter may be used to treat the superficial (epidermal) pigmented lesion and take care of the exessive pigment, whereas a longer filter may be applied for the hair removal.ACNE
Q: How does Blue Light destroy acne?
A: Blue Light is a new therapeutic light that uses the innovative Acne PhotoClearingTM - APCTM technology to precisely target and destroy surface and ductal propionibacterium acnes (p.acnes) quickly and easily. Its intense 420nm wavelength light penetrates deeply enough into the tissue to reach the target p.acnes and trigger the proliferation of endogenic porphyrins to attack and eliminate the p.acnes bacteria.Q: What kind of results can my acne patients expect?
A: Blue Light effectively clears most inflammatory acne in just one month. There are virtually no side effects or photosensitivity, no downtime and no exposure to antibiotics using APC technology.MICRODERMABRASION
Q: What is the operational mechanism behind microdermabrasion?
A: A closed vacuum system delivers aluminum oxide crystals through a tube and handpiece creating a vacuum when the handpiece is against the skin. The particle flow begins when the handpiece is sealed against the skin; particles flow out of the accelerator impacting the skin and, combined with skin debris, are suctioned back through the handpiece and tubing into the waste canister. The particle flow and suctioning stops once the seal is broken.Q: Is aluminum oxide safe?
A: Yes. It is the material recognized as the appropriate abradant for the microdermabrasion procedure. Also, the Material Safety Data Sheet indicates that AI2O3, (in various forms known as Corundum, White Fused Alumina or Bauxite), is non-toxic for ingestion, is not associated with adverse skin contact reactions and is not a known carcinogen.The aluminum oxide used in the SkinScape system has been melted and recrystallized for 99% purity (e.g. silica-free) but otherwise remains identical in chemical and physical properties to the native corundum ore.
Inhalation of aluminum oxide is considered a low health risk. Aluminum is the third most abundant element on earth and is present in innumerable products of daily living. It is, however, prudent to adhere to the standard precaution of wearing a facial mask because cumulative exposure to large amounts of any type of fine particulate (e.g., nail dust) may cause irritation, coughing or shortness of breath. In addition, the SkinScape equipment is a "closed system" designed to minimize exposure to ambient dust: the design of the handpiece ensures that recovery of the crystals from the skin is quite thorough; the media comes in prepackaged and sealed containers; and both the crystal and waste canisters are disposable.
Q: Are there any contraindications for microdermabrasion?
A: It is up to each physician to determine what he or she considers to be a contraindication for microdermabrasion. However, the following situations are reported in the medical literature:Patients are asked to cease use of certain topical agents such as glycolic acids, alpha-hydroxy acids and Retin-A for a few days before microdermabrasion treatment. Patients who present with certain facial skin disorders may be advised not to pursue treatment, e.g. acne rosacea or even facial telangiectasia.
If a patient experiences red streaking from the treatment because of over intense strokes or very sensitive skin, the patient should cease further treatments until the erythema has fully subsided. Patients with any signs of a sunburn should not be treated.
WRINKLES
Q: What type of facial wrinkles can be treated with the Nd:YAG head?
A: Most of the wrinkles are the peri-ocular (crow-feet on the eyes sides), peri-oral (around the mouth and upper lip), on the forehead, glabella (frown wrinkles) and along the cheeks (smile wrinkles) .In this order, the depth of the wrinkles in a particular person is increasing, e.g., the crow feet are the finest and the smile wrinkles are the deepest. Fine facial wrinkles can improve significantly by treatment with the Nd: YAG, whereas the deeper ones will need more aggressive modalities, such as laser resurfacing.GENERAL
Q: Just how easy is it to upgrade an Intense Pulsed Light system?
A: In many cases, it is quite simple to upgrade an IPL device. Typically, it involves installing new software and some peripheral hardware, and often involves a new handpiece. Normally, technical support is required, but Lumenis' qualified team of engineers is only a phone call away, ready to assist you with any product inquiry no matter how simple or complicated.Q: Describe the data collection, storage and retrieval aspect of your equipment.
A: Lumenis recognizes the importance of accurate patient histories and procedure data, particularly in certain cases. The VascuLight and Lumenis One platforms are designed with state-of-the art computer software for the greatest possible ease of data entry and retrieval. In addition, many products have pre-set parameters which will be displayed based on the patient information you enter. On some Lumenis systems, thousands of patient records can be stored for accurate histories and convenient treatment protocols.Q: How does Lumenis help me expand my practice?
A: The company is dedicated to helping its customers grow their aesthetic practices in a whole new light. Lumenis produces marketing tools, educational pieces and public relations materials designed to stimulate interest in laser and light-based aesthetic procedures among prospective patients, while simultaneously building awareness of your role in providing state of the art services. Leveraging the popularity of the internet, Lumenis hosts two web sites--one for consumer information seekers (http://www.skinandhealth.com/) that features an online physician referral listing and this one directed to medical/health professionals who may be your referral sources. In addition, Lumenis offers a variety of tools to help you implement local media relations, advertising and public education activities, along with all the support materials, such as patient brochures, ad slicks and multi-media presentation materials. For more information, click on Value Added Services.Q: Is training available?
A: Lumenis works closely with a large number of expert users around the globe who are familiar with all aspects of a device and its applications. Additionally, we have a strong network of well-trained clinical educators who can assist you and your office staff regarding IPL and laser treatment services. For more information, click on Value Added Services.Q: Are IPL and the laser beams of Nd:YAG and LightSheer safe?
A: The wavelengths of all three modalities are within parts of the visible light spectrum and the near infrared. They are longer than dangerous X-ray wavelengths, yet shorter than microwaves which can overheat the tissue. The technologies are so designed that they cause a selective heat in the lesions, but are safe for the surrounding tissues.To learn more Ask The Expert, Contact Us or Make an Appointment for a Free consultation.
