IPL (intense pulsed light) Treatment
Thread / Spider Vein
Thread veins are extremely common in men and women and can make some people feel very self-conscious.
They are damaged veins and broken capillaries just below the skin.
As you age, your skin loses collagen and becomes thinner, so when veins expand they become visible through your skin.
They are often caused by long-term sun exposure, pregnancy, rosacea, alcohol, smoking and standing for long periods.
Cost
from £5 a shot
Prices are dependant on the size/area to be treated and will be confirmed at the free, no obligation patch test which is required at least 48 hours prior to treatment.
Duration
15-30 mins
for
3-4 treatments
How does it work?
The light produced by the IPL system is concentrated in the target veins, and converted to heat energy, which coagulates the contents of the veins, which causes the temporary darker appearance. This absorption process breaks down the vessel walls, and following an effective treatment the body recognises these broken vessels as waste and removes them from the skin naturally over a 2-3 week period.
How long does the IPL treatment take?
Each treatment is different depending on the area being treated but on average between 15-30 minutes.
Does thread vein removal hurt?
It is a very well tolerated treatment. Clients describe it as an elastic band flick, which lasts seconds.
Is there anything before treatment that I can do?
Yes! It is very important that the area to be treated is not tanned, and to avoid artificial sun tanning cream, unless it can be completely wiped off prior to treatment. This includes avoidance of sunbeds, and preferably using high SPF factor sun cream daily and/or covering the area with clothing if possible. If tanned skin is treated with IPL, the light is absorbed excessively by the surrounding tanned skin, and can lead to complications such as burning/increased/decreased pigmentation. We are very careful not to treat tanned skin for this reason. Smoking and alcohol should also be avoided for 2 hours before and after treatment.
What should I expect after treatment?
The veins will darken after treatment, which is normal, and resolves over 2-3 weeks, when an improvement should be seen. Occasionally, when dense areas of veins are treated, there can be some temporary bruising, which resolves in a week or two. Any treated areas may feel warm for an hour or two, an ice pack or 100% Aloe Vera can be applied. We advise clients to avoid very hot conditions, such as saunas/ hot showers/baths for the rest of the day after treatment. It is important to avoid sun/sunbeds on the treatment area before, during, and for 3-4 weeks after treatments have finished, and to use high SPF factor sun cream daily on those areas, if exposed to the sun.
How often do the treatments take place?
Treatments take place at 3- 4 weekly intervals and usually 3-4 treatments are necessary to achieve optimum results. However, treatments are priced individually, so clients can stop when they feel happy with the results.