Acne Scarring Treatment the Facts

ACNE SCARRING TREATMENT – THE FACTS

Using the N-Lite Laser for scar revision – Some questions answered

There has been a lot of interest in the N-lite recently; what is it and how does it work?

The N-Lite is a relatively new laser that uses very low power laser energy to “insult” the fine blood vessels beneath the skin. These vessels, although not actually damaged, are tricked into behaving as if they were. Chemical signals are released that cause the body's own repair and regeneration mechanism to begin a healing process, laying down new collagen in the treated area.

Does it work on scars?

The N-Lite will only work on sunken or depressed scars. The scar tissue itself is not affected but as the depth of the collagen beneath the scar is increased, the surface is slowly raised gradually reducing the visibility of the scar. Unfortunately raised or keloid scars will not be improved and are not suitable for treatment. There is much evidence that the skin regeneration process helps scars from forming in the first place.

I have heard of skin resurfacing, is the N-lite a resurfacing laser?

Most definitely not.

Resurfacing lasers, specifically CO2 and Ebrium lasers work by ablating (destroying) a specified depth of skin at the skin surface. The skin then regenerates itself from the basal layer. This can take weeks and the aftercare procedures are borrowed from burns recovery protocols. There is a risk of complications ranging from infection to long term pigment problems.

The N-lite works on a completely different principle, using very low powers, working beneath the skin surface. In addition to the low powers, because the skin surface is not breached in any way there is an absolute minimum of unwanted side effects.

What are the side effects?

Usually none at all.

Some people, especially those with very sensitive skin, may get a histamine response. If your skin does respond in this way, small bumps may appear. They may be slightly red and they may itch but will settle down on their own within a few hours. Some people find the skin surface flushes slightly after treatment. At the very worst, small red spots called purpura may appear but these will settle down within a few days. Good operator technique will reduce the risk of these side effects, so the N-Lite is almost completely complication free.

How quickly will I see any results?

Because collagen is laid down slowly, there is no immediate effect. While this may seem like a disappointment, the gradual nature of the N-Lite response is actually a blessing.

Instead of having an obvious to everyone cosmetic change, your skin condition will slowly improve over time. N-Lite patients report that people start telling how well they look, without being able to lay a finger on precisely why.

How many treatments are required to achieve a results?

Because laser skin rejuvenation varies from individual to individual we do have a range of results. We are recommending a treatment protocol, based on research from America, involving four treatments spread over a number of months.

Treatment 1a is followed up by treatment 1b at a two to four week interval. The research shows that two treatments in this early phase dramatically increases the amount of collagen produced compared with only one. Treatments 2 and 3 take place at three monthly intervals and follow ups are normally booked at a further 3 and 6 months afterwards.

Having said all this, one treatment will often produce a noticeable effect especially around the facial area although the result will vary from individual to individual. In general the younger the skin and the better the blood supply, the better the results.

Skin age is not the same as actual age; genetic inheritance and external factors such as smoking and UV sun damage cause skin to age at different rates for different people and no two results will be exactly the same. It must also be remembered that the skin is continually ageing, so it is envisaged that further treatments in the future may well be desirable.

How will I know what interval is best for me?

Before any treatment can be given, a full medical assessment will be carried out. The information gathered here, in combination with monitored treatment results, will be used to work out a treatment regime tailored to suit your individual needs.

What are the costs likely to be?

This will be discussed at the initial consultation, which Laserase offers entirely free of charge and with no obligation to undergo treatment. Costs will vary between individuals according to the areas treated. Treatment will only be undertaken after the patient has had a chance to have any queries whatsoever fully explained to them at either the time of the consultation, or, the treatment itself. As a guide, prices start from as little as £100.

Can the N-lite be used for anything other than acne

Yes. We are using the N-Lite successfully to treat ; some stretch marks, active acne, acne rosacea, fine lines and wrinkles. With the quite remarkable effect the N-Lite laser is having on the whole healing process, we believe that new treatments will evolve as more experience of the laser is gained.

Who would carry out my treatment?

In our clinic, all treatments are performed by fully qualified and registered Doctors or senior nurses only.

It all seems too good to be true

The N-Lite laser has been used in this way for more than 10 years and from the results that have been achieved, it does just what it claims to do. It is not however a miracle cure, there is no such thing and expectations have to be in line with what is achievable.

Is laser treatment safe?

Yes. Lasers have been used in medicine for more than 30 years and there is no evidence to suggest that the N-Lite is anything but safe. There is currently no evidence to suggest that the treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of skin cancer. Furthermore, every precaution has been taken to ensure the safety of the patient. The lasers are regularly serviced and there is a laser service supervisor and Laser Protection Advisor appointed by NHS Grampian Radiation Protection Services. Patients are required to wear approved protective goggles at all times during laser treatment.

Please note that the information given on this sheet is for guidance only and each individual may respond in a different way. At the time of a consultation you will be given the most current information available.