Lynton IPL - Red Vein Removal

Intense Pulse Light systems emit light which is readily absorbed by blood vessels, heating them to 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. For Intense Pulsed Light treatment a thin layer of chilled gel is applied to the skin to aid light absorption by the vessel. The light is then pulsed over the entire area to be treated. The chilled gel is removed and the area cooled. During the treatment, protective eyewear will be worn.

Typically three to four treatments are needed for maximum results, though small lesions may clear in just a single session. For general redness and rosacea five or more treatments may be required. Repeat sessions are spaced every four to six weeks.

Treatment is relatively quick and can be just 10 minutes for a single lesion or up to 45 minutes for a full face.

Immediately after treatment some thread veins will disappear but may re-occur a few days later, but be less visible. With further treatment these vessels will disappear and are not likely to reoccur. However, once you have a tendency to facial redness you always will so new veins may appear at some point in the future making further treatment necessary. Maintenance sessions may not be required for several years though as results are long-lasting. To help prevent new veins forming we strongly advise the use of a good sunscreen to protect the skin from damage.

Treatment is mildly uncomfortable but there is no need for anaesthesia and the procedure is actually quite quick. Sensations vary but most people describe it as a very quick, hot pin prick.

After treatment the area may feel worm for a few hours. Rarely some delicate skin areas such as cheeks or décollté can be red and slightly swollen for up to 48 hours. Though very rare, there is a chance a small blister may form and there could be temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.

Most red skin lesions including facial thread veins, rosacea, spider naevi, port wine stains are treated with IPL, whereas leg veins up to 3 mm in diameters are often treated with laser.

Treatment is suitable for most people, however, best results are obtained for people with fair skin, and there is less chance of side effects.