Aviclear Laser Melbourne

AviClear does not directly address acne scars. Its primary purpose is targeting the overactive sebaceous glands that contribute to the development of acne lesions. By reducing breakouts, the treatment can help minimise the risk of new acne scars forming. However, if you have existing acne scars, other treatments will be recommended.

We have many treatments available to improve the appearance of acne scars at Northside Dermatology, including:

• CO2 laser
• TCA CROSS
• Punch excision or elevation
• Subcision
• Nanofractional RF resurfacing
• Vascular laser
• Q-switched laser
• LaseMD resurfacing laser
• Intralesional injections

AviClear treatments are performed by our dermal clinicians in the comfort of our state-of-the-art facilities. Before your treatment, you will meet with a provider to discuss your acne concerns and medical history. We will assess your skin and determine if AviClear is a suitable treatment for your needs.

To begin the treatment, we will cleanse your skin to remove any makeup, dirt or oil. You will be provided with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. Your provider will then use the AviClear handpiece to deliver laser energy to the targeted areas. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes, and most patients report minimal to moderate discomfort. 

After the treatment, you may experience some redness and swelling, which usually subsides within a few hours. You can resume your normal daily activities right away, as there is no required downtime with the AviClear laser.

AviClear is generally well-tolerated. During your session, you may feel a warm sensation or a slight snapping feeling as the laser energy is delivered to your skin. This is often compared to the sensation of a rubber band flicking against the skin, and the vast majority of patients do not find it painful.

For those with more sensitive skin, we offer several options to maintain your comfort throughout the procedure, including inhaled pain relief and oral pain relief. Applying ice and cooling devices can also be helpful.

AviClear requires no downtime. There’s no need to take time off work, school or other commitments, and you can even apply makeup directly after your treatment if desired.

Mild side effects following treatment can include:

• Redness or flushing, similar to a light sunburn
• A warm sensation 
• Slight swelling

Some patients will see “purging” or worsening of their acne after their first treatment. This is similar to the purging seen with oral vitamin A treatment, something that can be prevented or managed with oral antibiotics. The risk of purging reduces with the second and third treatment, as the oil glands become less active.

To care for your skin and minimise the risk of complications, we recommend using gentle, non-irritating skincare products and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 daily.

The process of suppressing the sebaceous glands takes time. The full effects of the treatment typically become apparent within three to six months after the initial series of treatments. 

During this period, you may notice a gradual improvement in your skin, with fewer breakouts and a clearer complexion. Remain patient and consistent with your treatment plan, as the results will continue to improve over time.

If needed, the doctors offer prescription medications to help manage your acne until the AviClear treatment fully takes effect.

The acne specialists understand that waiting for your final results can be challenging, especially if you’ve struggled with acne for a long time. That’s why they offer prescription creams and oral medications to complement AviClear in the early phases of the treatment.

The specialist dermatologists or acne GPs who consult at Northside Dermatology and dermal clinicians will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that combines AviClear with the appropriate medications. The doctors will also provide you with ongoing support and guidance to help you manage your acne during this transitional period. 

Clinical trials have demonstrated that current and future breakouts are shorter, less intense and more infrequent after the AviClear procedure. Clinical study has shown the following based on AviClear as a stand alone treatment, after three treatment sessions:

• At 3 months: most patients will see some degree of improvement; one-third will be clear or almost clear
• At 6 months: 93% see noticeable improvement; result is comparable to oral vitamin A treatment 
• At 12 months: two-thirds of patients are clear or almost clear
• At 2 years: 97% nodule reduction; patients continue to see improvement 

The specialists expect a much higher clearance rate and faster onset of action with the treatment protocol’s multi-modality approach.

Each person will react differently to AviClear treatments. Some experience results lasting years. 

The AviClear treatment protocol consists of:

• Three AviClear sessions spaced four weeks apart
• Three extraction and vascular laser treatments between AviClear sessions to help clear your acne faster and address acne scars
• Oral medication to manage acne in the early phase of treatment for faster results

The doctors will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan based on your specific needs.

AviClear’s suppressive effect on oil gland activity develops over time. Until the treated glands shrink, you will still have some ongoing acne. Your clinicians may use complementary modalities such as topical creams, antibiotics or oral medications in the early phase of your AviClear treatment to provide more immediate control of breakouts and minimise the risk of scarring.   

AviClear is suitable for patients of all skin types who are struggling with mild to severe acne, including:

• Those who wish to treat their acne without medication
• Those who have not achieved satisfactory results with medication alone
• Those who are on acne medication and wish to come off it without completing a full course of treatment
• Those who are trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding
• Those who tend to be non-compliant with their medication

During your consultation, the clinicians will assess your skin and determine if AviClear is a treatment option for you.

• Comprehensive Treatment Plan: The dermatologists and acne GPs develop comprehensive acne management programs tailored to individual needs. They assess various factors contributing to acne and design a treatment plan that addresses specific concerns.

• Effective Integration of AviClear: While AviClear can be effective, the doctors often incorporate it into a broader treatment plan for optimal results. They understand the timing and combination of treatments to maximize effectiveness, especially in the early stages of treatment.

• Specialized Treatment for Different Acne Types: The acne specialists can identify specific types of acne and provide targeted treatments. For instance, comedonal acne (black and whiteheads) may require physical treatments and medication, whereas severe inflammatory acne may need anti-inflammatory injections or prescriptions.

• Management of Side Effects: AviClear may cause purging of acne initially. The doctors can provide prescriptions and guidance to minimize or prevent these side effects, ensuring a smoother treatment process.

• Consideration of Contributing Factors: The acne specialists explore various factors contributing to acne, such as diet, lifestyle, and hormonal imbalances. They offer guidance on managing these factors to maintain long-term skin health and prevent acne recurrence.