Vascular Lesions

Some vascular conditions are congenital (at birth or in infancy) such as port wine stains however most are acquired through skin ageing, lifestyle or through sun exposure eg stretch marks, rosacea, thread veins, Campbell de Morgan spots etc. All of these can be treated on the face or body with Intense Pulse Light or Lasers to lighten or remove the lesion to give a more even skin tone.

How does the treatment work?

The Lumina IPL and Laser System emits short pulses of filtered light which is readily absorbed by the blood vessels, heating them to a point where they are destroyed. Following treatment, the vessels quickly clear as they are reabsorbed by the body, leaving little or no trace of the original lesion causing minimal damage to the surrounding skin.

How is the treatment carried out?

With IPL treatments a layer of chilled gel is applied to the treatment area to aid light absorption by the vessel. The hand piece is then placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released. This process is repeated until the entire area has been covered. The chilled gel is then removed and the area cooled. No gel is required for the Laser treatments. During either treatment, protective eyewear will be provided.

Am I suitable for treatment?

With the exception of very dark or tanned skin, everyone is suitable. Best results are obtained for those with fair skin when there is less chance of side effects. The best results are seen with facial thread veins, spider naevi and rosacea.

How does the treatment feel?

Most clients describe the sensation as a “quick hot pin prick” but as the treatment is very quick the mild discomfort is momentary and so no anaesthesia is required.

Are there any side effects?

There may be some general redness and warmth in the area for a few hours post treatment, but this can be eased by a cooling pack or aloe vera gel. Rarely some delicate skin areas such as the cheeks or décolleté can be red and slightly swollen for a few days. Occasionally, a small blister may form but if left to heal naturally will cause no adverse after effects. Mild lightening or darkening of the skin can occur but the skin returns to normal within time.

How long does each treatment take?

This will depend on the type and size of lesion present, but a typical treatment will take 10 to 45 minutes.

How many treatments are necessary?

This will depend on the type and size of lesion, but typically 3 to 5 sessions are required for maximum results at 4 to 6 week intervals, although some small lesions may clear in just a single session.

What aftercare should I follow after treatment?

Immediately after treatment , a cooling pack or aloe vera gel may be applied to calm the skin and this can be continued at home if necessary. It is also important to avoid triggers such as alcohol, very hot baths or showers, saunas, steam rooms, solariums and vigorous exercise. Post treatment, clients are advised to apply Dr Murad Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 15.

What are the costs likely to be?

Prices start at £25 but for further details please refer to our price guide. For a more specific cost, please contact Zap Laser Clinic and book a FREE no obligation consultation and your practitioner will be happy to advise you.

What do I do next?

Contact Zap Laser Clinic on (0118) 9331212 for further information or to book a FREE no obligation consultation. Alternatively, complete the consultation request to send an e-mail