Many of the more conventional treatments to remove or diminish the appearance of birthmarks involve long and sometimes painful processes. The use of corticosteroid medications carries a number of risks. Cryosurgery (freezing off the birthmark) has limited applicability. Surgery and treatment with ablative lasers can cause scarring and harm nearby healthy skin. Fortunately, new laser and IPL^TM-based therapies are allowing physicians to successfully treat many types of unsightly birthmarks and pigmentation simply and non-invasively. It's important that prospective patients consult with a physician to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Vascular Birthmarks

A unique, non-invasive treatment strategy has revolutionized the treatment of the widest range of vascular skin lesions. Lumenis^TM systems combining pulsed laser light and a broad band of Intense Pulsed Light offer the most effective and long-lasting treatment for port wine stains and hemangiomas. Lumenis systems use laser and IPL to selectively close off different size blood vessels at varying depths below the skin's surface, allowing the birthmarks to fade. Physicians are now able to treat complex birthmarks with pinpoint accuracy, eliminating the birthmark while sparing healthy tissue from injury. Discomfort and side effects are minimized, and virtually all patients return to their normal routines immediately afterwards.

What to Expect

Physicians determine a treatment plan for each patient depending on the size, location and other characteristics of the lesion. A large, facial birthmark can be treated in approximately 30 minutes, and a series of treatments is required for the maximum effect. Before treatment, a cold gel is usually applied to the area to be treated, and patients are given protective eyewear. During treatment, the smooth glass surface of the IPL handpiece is gently applied to the skin, delivering precise pulses of light to the area being treated. IPL treatments are considered pain-free, but an anesthetic cream can be used if the light pulses are uncomfortable. Some patients compare the sensation to a light pinch or the snap of a rubber band. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.

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