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If you are considering pulsed dye laser treatment to improve the appearance of your skin, there are a few things you should know before making your decision. This type of laser treatment is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available, and it can be very effective in treating a variety of skin conditions, including rosacea, facial redness, hypertrophic scars, port wine stains, and even nail psoriasis. It uses a laser that uses an organic dye mixed with a solvent.

However, the procedure has some risks, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before moving forward. This blog post will discuss the basics of pulsed dye laser treatment and outline some of the potential risks and benefits involved. Here are things to know before pulsed dye laser treatment.

Treatment Should Not Damage Surrounding Tissue

One of the biggest concerns people have about this type of laser treatment is whether or not it will damage the surrounding skin. It is important to know that the pulses of light used in pulsed dye laser therapy are a very precise laser beam and can be tailored to specific areas of the skin. This means that the treatment should not cause any damage to the surrounding tissue.

Tanned Skin Blocks Laser Light

Because the yellow light can’t penetrate tanned skin, it’s recommended that patients avoid tanning or excess exposure to the sun before their pulsed dye laser treatment session. You’ll want to avoid the sun as much as possible for at least three weeks prior to your appointment.

Treatment Requires One to Four Pulsed Dye Laser Sessions

Most people require one to four pulsed dye laser light sessions to achieve the desired results on the treated skin, although it can depend on the laser parameters used. It is important to note that the number of sessions required may vary depending on the treated condition. The sessions are typically only a few minutes, but the multiple sessions should be spaced out evenly, about two weeks between each one.

Some Risks Are Involved

As with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with pulsed dye laser therapy (PDL treatments). Some of the potential risks include:

• Scarring
• Pigmentation changes
• Infection

These risks should be weighed against the potential benefits of the treatment before deciding. If the risks involved are too high, you may consider other treatment options. Most risks occur when patients are not suitable candidates or do not follow their provider’s instructions following the treatment.

Pulsed dye laser treatment can also potentially harm the eyes, which is why we have patients wear eye protection.

The Results Are Not Instantaneous

Unlike some other cosmetic procedures, pulsed dye laser treatment results are not instantaneous at the treatment site. It may take several weeks or even months for the full effects of the treatment to be visible. After the procedure, the areas treated will likely be red and swollen. This is normal and should subside within a few days.

Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Reduces Redness

One of the main benefits of pulsed dye laser treatment is that it can reduce the appearance of redness and cutaneous vascular lesions. The pulses of light work to constrict the abnormal blood vessels, which can help to improve the appearance of the skin. This implies that pulsed dye laser treatment is a good option for most patients with rosacea or spider veins. It is important to consult with a dermatologist to see if this treatment is right for you.

Swelling and Scabbing May Occur

After the pulsed dye laser treatment, you may experience swelling and scabbing. This happens because the laser causes a minor injury to the skin. This is normal and should go away within a few days. You can minimize the swelling and discomfort by using a cold compress on the treated area. If the swelling or scabbing persists for more than a week, you may want to contact your dermatologist.

Schedule a Consultation

If you consider pulsed dye laser treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. David Baird to discuss your options. Dr. Baird is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in this type of treatment. He will be able to assess your skin condition and recommend the best course of treatment for you. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.