New Orleans dermatologist answers, "What are vascular lasers, and what should patients know about them before undergoing treatment"?

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Vascular lasers and pulsed light devices are becoming more popular in dermatology because they are a revolutionary way to treat a number of conditions of the skin. Patients with spider veins, visible facial veins, rosacea, broken capillaries, and overall redness of the skin may benefit from vascular lasers used at the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology in New Orleans.

Vascular lasers use visible light energy to treat skin conditions, while pulsed light devices use a broad band of light energy from the visible light band into the infrared energy band. Using a special hand piece, this laser energy is applied to the skin to restore the skin's color and address visible conditions such as vascular lesions, veins, and broken capillaries. Treatment can be applied to all areas of the body including the face, neck, and chest.

With vascular laser treatment, most patients do not experience any downtime in their day-to-day schedule. Treatment may result in some redness for a day or two after the session, but this will resolve on its own and is not a sign of a complication.

Patients undergoing vascular laser treatment with Dr. Mary Lupo will be comfortable throughout their treatment. During a consultation appointment with a board certified dermatologist, patients can ask about ways to manage comfort during and after their appointment. Patients describe the treatment as a warming sensation on the skin as the laser pulses treat the surface. Most sessions last approximately 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

Patients who have had vascular laser treatment will speak with Dr. Mary Lupo in regards to aftercare instructions. While inflammation, redness, and swelling may be present, they will not last more than a few days. Patients must be committed to wearing high SPF broad-spectrum sun block to protect their sensitive skin after treatment. Patients who want to experience optimum results may speak with their dermatologist about the possibility of undergoing several treatments scheduled weeks apart.

Dr. Mary Lupo of the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology in New Orleans is proud to offer vascular lasers as well as a wide variety of treatments through her practice that are effective at addressing common skin concerns. Contact her practice today to schedule a consultation appointment and learn about the benefits of laser therapy on the skin's surface.