Skin redness can affect how you feel about your skin. Vascular laser treatment may help reduce redness associated with a range of conditions, including rosacea, sun damage, scars and acne.
At Northside Dermatology, treatment is performed using the Cutera Excel V laser system. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, and results vary between individuals. A consultation is required to assess whether this treatment is suitable for you.
The vascular laser targets abnormal or unwanted blood vessels in the skin. At Northside Dermatology, we use the Cutera Excel V laser system, which offers two wavelengths (532 nm and 1064 nm) to address vascular structures at different skin depths:
Having two wavelengths in one system allows the Excel V to be used for a range of vascular concerns.
Vascular lasers target haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. The laser’s energy is absorbed by the blood vessel and converted to heat, which is designed to damage the targeted vessel while limiting the effect on surrounding tissue. This reduces blood flow to the area, which may reduce visible redness over time.
Individual results vary. Your clinician will discuss what you can realistically expect at your consultation.
Your suitability will be confirmed at consultation.
Your clinician will apply a gliding gel to the treatment area and provide protective eyewear. The Excel V laser handpiece is passed over the skin in sections. The two wavelengths are used to treat superficial and deeper vascular concerns. Most patients describe the sensation as a rubber band flick. The laser’s built-in cooling system helps reduce discomfort, so topical or local anaesthetic is usually not needed. Treatments typically take 15 to 30 minutes.
Mild redness or swelling may occur and usually settles within a few hours to days. Makeup can be applied to camouflage redness, and swelling can be reduced with prescription tablets if necessary.
Avoid sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Avoid skincare products with irritants (e.g. retinol, AHAs, salicylic acid) for one week. Avoid saunas and hot tubs for one to two days after treatment.
Every treatment plan begins with a thorough assessment. Our clinicians will assess your skin, confirm whether vascular laser treatment is suitable, and talk you through the potential risks and expected recovery.
Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band flicking against the skin. The laser’s built-in cooling system helps reduce discomfort, so topical or local anaesthetic is usually not needed.
Treatments typically take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated and how your skin responds. A series of treatments is usually recommended, and your clinician will advise on a plan at your consultation.
Some small blood vessels may fade straight after treatment, while diffuse redness tends to improve gradually over the weeks following each session. Individual results vary.
Downtime is usually limited. Mild redness or swelling may occur and usually settles within a few hours to days. Makeup can be applied to camouflage redness, and many patients return to their usual activities soon after treatment.
Possible side effects include redness, swelling or bruising, which usually settle within days. Less commonly, blistering or changes in pigmentation can occur. Your clinician will discuss the risks with you before treatment.
Vascular laser may help reduce the redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. It does not cure rosacea, so ongoing skin care and medical management may still be needed, and maintenance treatments may be recommended.
The Excel V laser can be used on a range of skin types. Tanned skin or recent sun exposure can increase the risk of pigment changes, so your suitability will be assessed at your consultation.
Avoid tanning or self-tanning products for at least four weeks, and stop skincare products with active ingredients (e.g. vitamin A, AHAs) two days before treatment. Let your clinician know if you have a history of cold sores, as antiviral medication may be recommended.
Book a consultation at Northside Dermatology to find out whether vascular laser treatment is suitable for you.
Northside Dermatology operates from modern facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. Consulting dermatologists and doctors offer a range of medical and aesthetic skin treatments, supported by a team of cosmetic nurses and dermal therapists.
