How does the Vbeam Perfecta® Laser work?
The Vbeam® is what’s called a Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL). This means it uses a concentrated beam of laser energy to target blood vessels in your skin. The laser light is delivered in short bursts of energy which are then converted into heat. This process collapses and destroys the blood vessel, leaving the surrounding healthy skin undamaged. Over time, your body’s lymphatic system will safely break down the destroyed vessels, leaving behind clear skin.
What does the Vbeam Laser® treat?
The Vbeam® is known for its versatility in treating common skin concerns. It is designed to primarily treat cosmetic vascular lesions, like broken blood vessels, but can also treat pigmented lesions, like stubborn patches of sun damage. At Skin Artisans, the Vbeam Perfecta® is used to treat:
- Broken blood vessels around the nose and on the face
- Rosacea & facial redness
- Cherry Angiomas (small polka-dot-like vascular lesions on the face and body)
- Scar Revision & Stretch Marks
- Vascular Birthmarks
- Inflammatory Acne Lesions
- Bruise Reduction
*Vbeam® is not an appropriate treatment for varicose veins. If this is your concern, our Advanced Practice Estheticians can refer you to a reputable vascular surgeon.
Who is a good candidate for a Vbeam Perfecta® treatment?
Because the laser energy utilized by Vbeam® is attracted to pigmentation, the safest candidates for treatment have lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-III) and do NOT have an active tan on their skin. Your provider does not want the pigmentation in your skin to confuse the laser and become a target. Your initial consultation will determine if you are an appropriate candidate.
What happens during a Vbeam Laser® treatment?
All patients require a consultation with a Skin Artisans Advanced Practice Esthetician before receiving treatment with Vbeam® to ensure that you are a good candidate. They will devise a plan unique to you and your needs, which may include a series of simple “spot treatments” or more extensive treatments for conditions like rosacea.
During a Vbeam Perfecta® treatment, your eyes will be shielded with protective eyewear. Your provider will customize the laser’s settings to address the specific nature of your skin concern. Once the laser handpiece is pressed against your skin, you will experience a quick burst of energy, like the light snap of a rubber band. This process will be repeated on other vessels of the face and body. Once your treatment is complete, your provider will apply cool packs to the treated area to relieve any discomfort.
Does the Vbeam Perfecta® laser treatment hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation of the Vbeam® laser like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Although the feeling isn’t relaxing, the treatment is quite comfortable, with many patients not even needing numbing cream for more minor spot treatments. The laser delivers a short burst of cool air to the skin immediately before the laser light energy hits your skin. This process significantly increases your comfort during the treatment.
Is there downtime after a Vbeam Laser® treatment?
After your Vbeam Perfecta® treatment, it is normal for your skin to feel like it has a sunburn. You may also experience slight swelling and soreness, especially if many vessels were treated at your appointment. These sensations are normal and are your skin’s healing reaction to the micro-injuries the laser has caused to destroy its target. Most patients can return to work immediately after their treatment, and makeup can be worn to cover any redness that persists. As days and weeks pass, you will notice vessels turn slightly grey and then eventually disappear.
Patients must avoid sun exposure and wear a daily SPF 30 or higher for at least one week following their Vbeam® treatment. This is because your skin will be sensitive to UV radiation, and exposure could cause complications during your healing.
How many Vbeam Perfecta® treatments will I need? What are the results?
During your initial consultation, your Skin Artisans provider will discuss how many Vbeam® treatments they recommend to achieve your aesthetic goals. Vbeam® is customized to meet your individual skincare needs. You can typically expect 2 to 4 treatment sessions, each lasting 15 to 30 minutes. This will vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the skin condition and the number of vessels. Once you have reached clearance, your provider may recommend annual “touch-up” treatments to address any new vessels that become visible and to keep chronic redness and flushing at bay.
If you are a resident of Minneapolis, MN, or surrounding communities and are interested in learning more about the Vbeam Laser®, please contact Skin Artisans at Edina Plastic Surgery at 952-234-8414 or visit our contact page.