Candela VBeam PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser)
What is PDL?
PDL stands for Pulsed Dye Laser. The PDL laser is a specific wavelength which targets blood vessels to reduce the appearance of redness, flushing, broken blood vessels, hemangiomas, scars, and other skin conditions.
Am I a candidate for PDL?
If you have facial red scars, thick scars, rosacea and redness, telangiectasia, hemangiomas, vascular birthmarks, or warts, then you may be a candidate for PDL.
What does the procedure involve?
PDL is usually done in series of treatments with anywhere from 3 to 5 treatments on a monthly basis; however, this number can be variable based on the condition which is being treated. To maintain your results if you have rosacea, flushing or broken blood vessels, we recommend that you get retreated every 6-12 months. We recommend you arrive an hour prior to your appointment for numbing cream to minimize any discomfort you may experience.
What will I look like after the treatment?
Immediately after treatment most people are pink and splotchy for a few hours. Occasionally some people may experience some swelling for a day or a few days. Occasionally bruising may be seen and last for 7-10 days.
How do I take care of my skin?
You may apply makeup immediately after treatment if you like and resume your regular skin care regimen. At The Pearl we recommend All Calm by Colorescience SPF 50 which is available in our office. This product has great coverage, sun protection and additional ingredients to help brighten the skin for an even better result. EltaMD Gentle Foaming Cleanser is a gentle face wash we recommend post procedure as well. Continue to protect your skin from sun damage with sunscreen and physical barriers like a wide brim hat. Avoid direct sun light for a week after treatment.
Are there any risks?
Possible side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, a temporary burning sensation and blistering. If you get a blister, you should call the office and get in touch with a doctor as blisters can leave a scar.
Aftercare
Apply Vaseline or Aquaphor ointment to the treated area 2-3 times a day if the bruising/red discoloration is present or if there is no discoloration or scabbing, a moisturizer can be used daily. It is important to keep the area moist until healed.
Showers are permitted, but gently pat dry the area dry. Do not rub with a towel or washcloth as the area is extremely delicate while the bruising/red discoloration is present. Any discomfort you may have can be relieved with Tylenol.
Precautions To Take Following Your PDL Treatment
Do not rub, scratch, or pick at the treated area while the bruising/red discoloration is present. If the treated area becomes tender, reddened, or show signs of infection, contact our office immediately.
Avoid swimming or contact sports while the bruising/red discoloration is present. Avoid rubbing or pressure (caused by clothing) on the treated areas. Apply at least an SPF 35 or higher if sun exposure is expected to prevent pigmentation changes.