Category: Lasers

What Causes Spider Veins?

When most people spot a spider, they do at least one of the following: frown, shriek, grab a weapon, call for backup, or jump on the nearest piece of furniture. It’s difficult to greet a spider calmly and pleasantly, especially when it shows up somewhere unexpected. However, in many ways, spider veins are even less welcome than actual spiders. Although we don’t react to them with the same level of shock and urgency, people with spider veins typically wish to get rid of them. They can embarrass, decrease a person’s self-confidence, and even produce aching pain. So what causes spider veins? More importantly: how can you get rid of them? [Read more…]

Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins develop when the valves that pump blood toward the heart become missing or damaged, making blood pool in the veins. Most often occurring in the legs, the condition is typically painful and indicated with red or bluish-purple veins that are raised and swollen. Varicose veins appear in over 50% of Americans aged 50 and older, and they are particularly common in women. Whether to reduce the pain or improve the appearance of their veins, many individuals consider laser treatment for varicose veins because it’s less invasive and painful than ligation and stripping.

Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Laser Therapy and Endovenous Laser Ablation

There are two types of laser therapy for varicose veins. Simple laser therapy is typically performed on tiny varicose veins and small spider veins. Due to this, it may be a secondary treatment that follows endovenous laser ablation, sclerotherapy, or vein surgery. Laser therapy doesn’t involve any cutting into the leg or injections. Your health care provider will perform the procedure on the outside of the skin, applying the light energy from the laser to the varicose veins, usually once every 6 to 12 weeks as needed. The laser works by collapsing and shrinking the size of the vessel.

Endovenous laser ablation (EBLA) treats large varicose veins by applying intense heat to the inside of the vessel from a laser. Another form of endovenous ablation uses radiofrequency energy to create heat. The procedure involves puncturing the affected vein to insert a thin tube called a catheter through it and toward the groin area. Then, a laser fiber or radiofrequency device is passed through the catheter to close off and destroy the vein with heat. During the treatment, your doctor will watch the vein on an ultrasound screen. Over time, the vein will collapse and shrink. Endovenous laser ablation works 94% of the time. If it doesn’t produce the desired effects, you will need a second treatment.

After Laser Treatment

A laser technician can perform varicose vein therapy in an office or clinic. After the procedure, you will be allowed to go home right away. You should limit activity for three to five days for optimal results. However, you may need to wear compression stockings for one week or longer.

Side Effects of Laser Treatment

The downside to laser treatment for varicose veins? The potential side effects. You may experience the following ramifications as a result of your treatment:

• Burns on your skin
• Changes in skin color
• Blood clotting
• Nerve damage that causes sensations of burning, prickling, or pain after recovery

Although nerve damage and clotting may occur, these are rare side effects of laser treatment compared to vein stripping surgery. To reduce these risks, choose a reputable laser clinic and an experienced technician.

When It Is Necessary to See a Doctor

If you don’t seek treatment for varicose veins, they will likely worsen over time. They may even get worse when you make lifestyle changes to control the condition and manage the pain. Aside from this pain and the fact that most people find varicose veins unsightly, they don’t usually cause long-term medical issues. However, varicose veins can sometimes lead to sores or ulcers, chronic inflammation, or blood clots. In severe cases, the veins may rupture. Visit your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Finally, if you’re interested in receiving a laser treatment for varicose veins and you live in Springfield, Missouri, contact DermaHealth. Using lasers, we can reduce veins found on the face, legs and other areas of the body without needles, or incisions. Plus, no downtime is required! To learn more, please give us a call at 417-447-7777 or click here to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus

Strolling along the beach with your toes in the sand. Picnicking barefoot in the cool grass. Sitting beside the lake and splashing your feet in the water. Snapping along the street in your flip-flops. Laughing at the tan lines on your feet after a long day in the sun. Without a doubt, summer is the best time of the year for feet. But unfortunately, people who suffer from nail fungus cannot often enjoy these simple, warm-weather pleasures. The embarrassing problem can be difficult to hide in the summertime, but why should you let a little fungus ruin your fun? Before you give up hope, explore laser treatment for nail fungus. It’s quick, effective, and oh so easy.

Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus

THE PROBLEM

Onychomycosis is a tremendously common fungal infection that affects fingernails and (more commonly) toenails. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it affects about 12% of Americans, many of who are genetically prone to it (source). Swimmers and athletes are also very prone to nail fungus, because their feet are often damp and barefoot, and fungus thrives in dark and wet environments.

Although the problem is primarily cosmetic, it can become more serious over time. For example, it could cause your nails to grow abnormally or cause pain when you walk. Not to mention, of course, the fact that you will likely need to avoid public pools, public showers, and open-toe sandals. Luckily, there is a cure!

THE SOLUTION

Laser therapy is an innovative and effective way to treat nail fungus. Unlike oral medications and topical creams, this technology targets the fungi directly. The specially designed laser is directed across the nail, where it can penetrate the nail bed and kill the responsible fungi within and under the toenail. Amazingly, it will not damage the nail itself or the surrounding skin.

Although the toenail won’t become instantly clear and healthy, it will show great progress within a few months, following multiple treatments. After your treatment, to prevent the fungus from growing back, consider using an anti-fungal powder in your shoes to decrease the amount of moisture. You should also avoid wearing wet shoes and putting wet feet into socks.

THE BENEFITS

• Laser treatment sessions are quick, taking between 30 and 60 minutes.
• The treatments are painless for most people (some will experience a warming sensation or a pricking feeling).
• You won’t suffer any of the side effects of oral or topical medications.
• Laser treatment is even more effective when used in combination with anti-fungal oils.

Are you suffering from nail fungus? If you live in southwest Missouri, let DermaHealth help you eliminate this unsightly and distressing problem. Using our effective lasers, we can quickly and inexpensively reduce your nail fungus with just three treatments. Plus, our Formula 3® and FFN ctf anti-fungal oils, which are applied to nails one to two weeks before and during treatment, will penetrate the nail bed and help destroy the fungus. If you would prefer not to use laser treatments, you can also use the oil on its own (though you will have to wait longer to achieve optimum results).

To get started, please give us a call at 417-447-7777 or schedule a free consultation online. We would be happy to help!

How Does Laser Vein Treatment Work?

Most children can only clearly see their veins in particular spots—the inner wrist, the inner elbow, the foot—which makes them somewhat mysterious. Unfortunately, our veins tend to become more prominent (and less elusive) as we age. Skin translucency, body fat, exercise, pregnancy, blood circulation, weight loss, and medications can all affect the visibility of your veins. Luckily, using laser vein reduction, you can erase the appearance of spider veins. So how does laser vein treatment work? Let’s find out . . .

How Does Laser Vein Treatment Work?

Using a revolutionary laser treatment, we are able to reduce the appearance of both red and blue veins found in many places on the body, including the face and legs. The process doesn’t require incisions, and all skin types can be treated safely. How, you ask?

Well, using a non-invasive laser, strong bursts of light and heat are focused on the problem area. The heat damages the vein, clotting off the vessel, diverting the blood flow to other veins nearby. The treated vein, no longer able to access its source of blood, will disappear over time (sometimes multiple treatments are needed). The treatments last for about 15-20 minutes, making this a quick, in-and-out procedure. Afterward, you can immediately go back to work and resume your normal activities (though strenuous exercise is discouraged).

Things to Note

• YOU MAY NEED FUTURE TREATMENTS. First, know that most veins require multiple treatments. This varies based on the vein’s size and type, however. Treatment sessions are scheduled 6-8 weeks apart. In addition, you may need future treatments as your veins change and develop over time.
• YOU WILL GET IMMEDIATE RESULTS. Although additional treatments will likely be needed if you want to achieve the maximum benefits, there will be a noticeable reduction in appearance after just one treatment session.
• HOSE ARE REQUIRED. If your legs are treated, you should wear compression hose for 3-5 days for optimum results. In addition, you will be asked to avoid vigorous activity. Luckily, you can easily hide the hose with pants since vein treatments should be performed in winter. Speaking of which . . .
• PLAN FOR A WINTER TREATMENT. Ideally, vein treatments should be performed in the wintertime, because sunburns and tans can negatively impact the results of laser vein reduction. You will also need to avoid sun exposure to the treated area!
• LASERS ARE NOT ALWAYS EFFECTIVE. Laser vein treatment is unfortunately not effective on all veins, especially very large and prominent ones. To learn whether laser treatment is the right choice for your veins, you will need to consult with a laser and skin care technician.

If you’re interested in receiving laser vein treatment and you live in Springfield, Missouri, contact DermaHealth. Using lasers, we can reduce veins found on the face, legs and other areas of the body without needles, or incisions. Plus, no downtime is required! To learn more, please give us a call at 417-447-7777 or click here to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

Laser Hair Removal FAQ

Very few adult women are completely satisfied with the amount of hair on their body. We wax our legs, pluck our eyebrows, bleach our facial hair, and shave our armpits, though the methods and areas of concern vary from woman to woman. And unfortunately, the hair never stops growing, which means the process never ends. So if you want permanent hair reduction, you’ll need to look into a professional procedure like laser hair removal. Interested in learning more? Scroll down to check out our laser hair removal FAQ.

Laser Hair Removal FAQ

How effective is laser hair removal? Although results vary, you can typically expect 80-85% hair reduction in the treated area. The hair that remains should be finer and lighter as well.

How long does it take? Unfortunately, the process will not be complete in just one session. Because hair growth occurs in three stages and the laser will only target hairs in the growing stage (known as the anagen stage), you will probably end up needing 3-6 treatments. These treatments are spaced 4-12 weeks apart.

Where can I have hair removed? The treatment can be used on a variety of different areas, just about anywhere you have unwanted hair. The most popular areas for women are facial hair and the bikini line, and the most popular area for men is the back.

Will it hurt? Pain tolerance differs from person to person. The discomfort you may experience during the treatment is similar to the pain you would feel if a rubber band were snapped against your skin: sharp, but quick. To lessen the discomfort, a numbing cream can be applied to the skin.

How much does it cost? Of course, different providers will offer different prices. Focus on finding a professional, inviting, reputable company, not one that offers a cheap deal. The price will depend on the size of the treatment area and the density of the hair within that area. Many companies offer packages that ensure a certain number of treatments over a specified period of time, while others charge per treatment.

Does laser hair removal work on all hair and skin colors? Yes, however, your hair color and skin color may affect your results. Because the laser targets hair based on the color discrepancy between the hair color and the skin color, people with light skin and dark hair tend to have the most successful laser hair treatments. Luckily, there are a wide variety of lasers that can target different hair colors. For example, the DSL laser can effectively treat light brown, red, and dark blond hair.

How does laser hair removal work? The laser uses color discrepancy to target unwanted hair. Using a specific wavelength of light and pulse duration, it targets the melanin (i.e., the pigment) in the area while avoiding the skin. The hair follicle is heated and damaged, which will hinder future growth. To learn more about this process, please check out this previous blog post.

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If you’re interested in receiving laser hair removal and you live in Springfield, Missouri, contact DermaHealth. We own four different lasers (the GentleMaxPro, the Lumecca, the excel V Yag, and the DSL), which help us target large areas of hair, hair in sensitive areas, and even lighter hair colors like red, dark blond, and light brown. To learn more, please give us a call at 417-447-7777 or click here to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!