Page 190 - Blog Posts v1

Conclusions
As I said at the start, we are deliberately trying to ‘burn’ the skin with photothermal treatments. But these are “controlled” burns, using the correct parameters and protocols. If carried out correctly, we can achieve very nice results with just the right amount of damage, but without scarring.
Always start with low fluences – with both Q-switched (or pico) lasers and IPLs. With such superficial pigment, we don’t need high fluences – they will only end up damaging the dermis with excess heat.
We must also use the appropriate skin cooling techniques to minimise unwanted damage. I use a protocol where I pre-cool the skin before firing the light energy, then ‘post-cool’ immediately, then ‘post-cool’ again using ice-packs. I will soon make a video describing this technique. It helps to both reduce the pain sensation that patients feels and protect the skin form too much thermal damage.
However, we must inform the patients/clients in advance – let them know what to expect or they will likely panic. Feel free to use these photos if you wish to explain what they might expect to see. If they know in advance, they will be much less likely to become worried or upset. Also, make sure they understand how to look after their skin following these treatments.
Hope this helps, Mike.
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Mike’s Blog Posts 190