What is a Photofacial?

With all the media focus on today’s celebrities, it seems there’s a new beauty treatment coming out every week.  And while this might be an exaggeration, there have indeed been a number of innovations in beauty treatments, so you shouldn’t be alarmed if you’re not familiar with all of them.  In this post, we’ll be talking about photofacials.  We’ll try and answer questions such as, “What is a photofacial?” “What can they achieve?” and “How do they work?”

What Is A Photofacial?

A photofacial is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that uses pulses of light, sometimes combined with radio frequencies, to diminish the appearance of skin blemishes and discolourations.  The procedure is typically performed by a clinician who runs a handheld wand that emits the light pulses over the area that’s being treated.

What Are Photofacials Used For?

Photofacials can be used to treat several different skin problems such as rosacea, fine wrinkling, acne and acne scars, sun spots, freckles, visible blood vessels, enlarged pores and more.  A photofacial treatment doesn’t necessarily focus on the face as it can be used to treat skin on the neck, back, hands and other parts of the body.  In fact, the only areas of the body that can’t be treated are the eyelids and the areas just above the eyes.

How Does A Photofacial Work?

When the pigmentation that causes skin discolouration is exposed to the pulsed light and radio frequencies, it’s broken up and reabsorbed by the skin.  Red blood cells are also affected which brings more blood to the treated area and helps with the absorption of pigmentation.  Collagen production is also stimulated which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and give the skin a younger, fresher appearance.

Does A Photofacial Hurt?

A photofacial treatment should not cause significant pain.  Photofacials that use pulses of light cause a sensation similar to being snapped with a rubber band which can cause a short-lasting sting.  After the treatment, you might feel like you have a slight sunburn.  There shouldn’t be any downtime after a photofacial treatment, so it’s possible to have it done during a lunch break.  You should be able to carry out your usual activities such as applying makeup, participating in sports etc.  You might experience side effects such as reddened skin, slight swelling, short-term darkening of dark spots or small blisters.