The Regenlite laser was introduced to the uk at the beginning of 2000 as a collagen building laser designed for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and treating the general signs of ageing. The laser is a visible yellow light that mimics damage to the skin as a result of which the body’s natural wound healing response is stimulated. Part of this response is the production of brand new collagen. During these treatments, especially for the reduction of acne scarring, it rapidly became apparent that the treatment was reducing active acne break-outs. Within a short period of time Regenlite clinics had a number of patients who were controlling acne by using laser treatment alongside other non-laser regimes. Since those early days a full clinical trial and subsequent studies have been completed which demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of the Regenlite laser in the control of acne symptoms.
What is acne?
Inflammatory acne is the most common form of dermatosis to affect mankind. Over 90% of adolescents will suffer from it, and it affects all ethnic groups.
It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. The site of the acne depends upon the activity of the sebaceous glands on different areas of the body, but is most commonly found on the face, followed by shoulders, back, chest and other areas. The lesions can be non-inflammatory, seen as blackheads and whiteheads, and inflammatory producing papules, pustules and cysts.
The sebaceous gland increases sebum excretion which hardens and occludes (blocks) the follicle. We then see proliferation of propionibacterium acnes and resulting inflammation.
Some of the myths surrounding the cause of this condition include that it affects only teenagers, you’ll grow out of it, that it’s due to diet or a poor cleanliness. None of these is true!
30% of teenage sufferers will continue into adult life with the condition and it can result in scarring, both of the skin and the psyche.
It is commonly believed that in order to get the better of spots and acne breakouts it is necessary to use strong, alcohol-laden products to dry the skin out. Unfortunately, these same products can often make the situation progressively worse by stripping the skin of its natural oils and encouraging the sebum to work even harder to replace it. This increased production of sebum provides the perfect environment for further bacterial growth of propionibacterium acnes.
How does regenlite treatment work?
The mechanism by which Regenlite works is three-fold:
1 The laser light kills the acne bacteria causing the infection that leads to the formation of spots and lesions. A whole face is treated, killing the bacteria over a wide area thereby reducing the risk of the infection spreading and further break-outs.
2 Stimulates the body’s natural wound healing response and dermal collagen production, which accelerates the resolution of the spots and lesions and reduces the appearance of any scars.
3 Stimulates the amount of a special type of molecule in the skin, a cytokine called TGFB. This cytokine is uniquely important in the process of limiting inflammation and is also intimately involved in the development of immune tolerance. Simply put, this molecule reduces the inflammation of the acne spots and then prevents the formation of new ones.
The process of successfully managing the symptoms of acne is a three stage process of preparation, repair and maintenance. Missing out or not performing one of these stages adequately may have an impact on the result.
A combination of Regenlite and other procedures, such as microdermabrasion and topical creams, may be recommended in order to address these three stages and to obtain optimum results.
Am i suitable for treatment?
Regenlite is suitable for all skin types, However, you will be required to attend a consultation where your medical history will be discussed to determine your suitability for treatment. Should you wish to proceed, you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a patch test.
Who will carry out my treatment?
All consultations, patch tests and procedures at Wellbeing & Health are carried out by a specialist Registered Nurse with many years experience in laser treatments and skin care.
How long will my treatment take?
The length of each session will depend upon the size of the area to be treated and your advised treatment package. For a full facial you should allow just 30-60 minutes.
What will i see immediately following treatment?
The procedure is totally safe and usually leaves no visible signs on the surface of the skin. This is because the laser works on the lower surface or dermal layer of the skin where collagen production occurs. As a result, you can have a treatment during your lunch break and return to work. In a small number of cases there may be a slight redness to the treated area and pin-point bruises may occur. This normally lasts no more than a few days.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatment sessions you may need will depend upon your individual situation, and this will be discussed with you during your consultation, including possible combination treatments that could enhance the results.
A typical treatment course will initially involve 3 laser treatment sessions (although there may be other appointments needed for combination treatments). The laser sessions will usually be scheduled once per month. You will then be placed on an agreed maintenance schedule.
When will i start to see results?
Over a period of three months following treatment you will notice a gradual reduction in the appearance of lines and wrinkles as the collagen levels increase. Additional treatments may be required periodically to maintain the results, but this depends very much on the individual. We will be happy to advise you further during consultation.
How much will it cost?
See our PRICE GUIDE
