This form of red birthmark, commonly seen on the face, consists of abnormal blood vessels beneath the skin surface that can be gradually reduced with multiple treatments.
Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Singapore
Dr. Liew Hui Min
Pulsed dye laser is a targeted treatment performed by a dermatologist designed to address visible blood vessels and various skin concerns. It works by delivering bursts of laser energy that are absorbed by the blood vessels in the skin. The absorbed energy converts to heat, which helps to break down the affected vessels. Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs them, resulting in a more even skin tone. This non-surgical procedure is used to treat both vascular and certain non-vascular skin conditions.
Conditions Treated with Pulsed Dye Laser
Pulsed dye laser treatment addresses skin conditions characterised by vascular abnormalities and other dermatological concerns.
Port Wine Stain
Rosacea
This chronic skin condition, causing facial redness and visible blood vessels, responds to Pulsed dye laser treatment by reducing the prominence of dilated blood vessels.
Post-acne Facial Redness
Residual redness that remains after acne has healed can be addressed by targeting the inflamed blood vessels that contribute to the persistent redness.
Red Scars
Various types, including keloid scars, hypertrophic scars, and burn scars, contain an abnormal concentration of blood vessels that can be reduced with this therapy.
Facial Telangiectasia
Small, dilated blood vessels visible on the skin surface can be treated as the laser energy targets the haemoglobin in these vessels.
Small Vascular Lesions
Conditions such as cherry angiomas and spider naevus can be addressed by breaking down the clustered blood vessels that form these benign growths.
Poikiloderma of Civatte
This condition, commonly seen on the neck and chest, presents with both pigmentation and redness due to chronic sun exposure and respond to the dual actions of the laser.
Non-vascular Skin Conditions
The therapy also treats certain types of melasma (a form of facial pigmentation) and nail psoriasis through its targeted application.
Benefits of Pulsed Dye Laser treatment
Pulsed dye laser treatment offers several benefits to patients seeking treatment for vascular and other skin conditions.
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Targeted Approach
The laser targets blood vessels while sparing surrounding tissues, which allows for treatment of the affected areas without affecting adjacent skin.
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Minimally Invasive
As a non-surgical procedure, it requires no incisions or injections, reducing the risks associated with more invasive treatments.
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Treatment Versatility
The technology can be adjusted to address various skin conditions and can be used on different body areas, including the face, neck, chest, and extremities.
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Outpatient Procedure
Treatments are performed in a clinical setting with no hospital stay required, allowing patients to return to their normal activities afterwards.
Preparing for Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment
Medical Evaluation: A medical evaluation is performed prior to treatment. During this evaluation, your medical history, current medications, and skin condition are assessed to determine if you are a candidate for the therapy.
Sun Exposure Limitation: Avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks before treatment. Tanned skin increases the risk of complications such as burns, pigmentation changes, and scarring.
Skincare Regimen Adjustment: Products containing retinoids, glycolic acid, or other potentially irritating ingredients should be discontinued a week prior to treatment. Specific instructions will be provided based on your current skincare routine.
The Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Process
Pre-treatment Cleansing
The treatment area is cleaned to remove makeup, oils, and other products that may interfere with the laser’s application.
Cooling System Application
The Pulsed dye laser device uses a cooling system that is applied to the skin before each laser pulse.
Laser Application
The laser handpiece is applied to the treatment area, delivering pulses of light energy. The energy is absorbed by the haemoglobin in the blood vessels, converting to heat that breaks apart the vessel walls.
Treatment Duration
The length of the session varies depending on the size and location of the treatment area, typically ranging from 15 to 45 minutes.
Post-treatment Assessment
After the procedure, the treated area is checked for expected reactions such as redness, bruise and swelling, which are normal responses to the therapy.
Post-Treatment Care
Immediate Aftercare
Treated areas may appear red, bruised and swollen immediately after treatment. This reaction typically subsides within a few hours to days, depending on the treatment intensity and area treated.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is required following treatment. Treated skin can be susceptible to sun damage, which can lead to complications such as hyperpigmentation. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear protective clothing.
Skincare Regimen
Follow your dermatologist’s advice regarding skin care after treatment. Avoid harsh cleansers and irritating products until the skin has fully healed. Gentle moisturisers may be recommended.
Follow-up Sessions
Multiple treatments are typically required. The treatment interval is approximately 1-2 months apart, allowing the skin to heal between sessions.
Expected Results
Results from Pulsed dye laser treatment can vary depending on the skin condition, treatment area, and individual skin tone. While two or more sessions are usually needed, complete removal of red marks may not always be possible. In conditions such as port wine stains and rosacea, the laser can help lighten the affected areas rather than fully eliminate them. Treatments are typically spaced 1 to 2 months apart. Some conditions, including port wine stains and rosacea, may recur over time, in which case additional sessions can be considered.
Potential Side Effects
Bruising and swelling are expected reactions from Pulsed dye laser treatment, with downtime typically between 3-10 days. Possible side effects include burns presenting as blisters, changes in pigmentation, and scarring. These risks can be reduced with proper pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment care, including sun protection and following recommended skincare guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I see results?
Initial results may be visible within a few weeks after the first treatment, with continued improvement after subsequent sessions. Complete results are typically observed after the full treatment course.
Can Pulsed dye laser be used on all skin types?
Pulsed dye laser treatment can be used on various skin types, but effectiveness and risk of side effects may vary. Your dermatologist will assess your skin type and condition to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
What is the difference between Pulsed dye laser and other laser treatments?
Pulsed dye laser targets blood vessels using a wavelength that is absorbed by haemoglobin, making it suitable for vascular lesions compared to other lasers that target different structures.
Is Pulsed dye laser suitable for treating keloid or raised scars?
Yes, Pulsed dye laser treatment is often used as part of keloid scar removal in Singapore, especially for reducing redness and improving the overall appearance of raised scars. It works by targeting blood vessels in the scar tissue, helping to flatten and lighten the scar over time.
Dr Liew Hui Min
Dr. Liew Hui Min is an accredited consultant dermatologist from the Ministry of Health and the General Medical Council UK.
Her clinical interest includes:
- Paediatric Dermatology,
- Women’s Dermatology,
- General Adult Dermatology.
Having trained in major London Hospitals, Dr Liew returned to Singapore in 2014 as a Consultant at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) where she specialised in paediatric, women, obstetric and vulva dermatology. Currently, Dr Liew practices at The Skin Drs. clinic located at Gleneagles Hospital.
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Gleneagles Medical Centre
6 Napier Road, #06-01
Singapore 258499
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