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.