The Palomar Starlux Photofacial

Starlux photofacial technology makes use of high-intensity pulsed light to deliver a concentrated burst of energy to target and destroy pigmented and vascular lesions. The conditions and lesions include chest, neck, and face telangiectasias, or broken capillaries; brown or tan sun spots; sun damage on the neck, face, legs, arms, chest; and cherry angiomas of the body and face.
The photofacial treatment is also the preferred treatment for poikiloderma (brown/red mottled pigmentation on the sides of the neck). In some cases, it is used in combination with other treatments to reduce the dark pigmentation that is characteristic of the chronic skin disorder melasma.
A photofacial treatment using high-intensity pulsed light is a non-invasive and non-abrasive way to rejuvenate the skin. An intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacial can improve the signs of sun damage and revitalize the overall appearance of your face, hands, and other areas of the body. Surgeons also use this procedure to ease away scars on parts of the body with a large surface area.
How Does the Procedure Work?
During the Palomar Starlux photofacial procedure, your surgeon will utilize specialized handpieces that are designed to filter light from different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Every spectral band has a wavelength that is suited for different treatments, like vessel clearance and sun spot removal.
The light emitted by the IPL handpiece is absorbed by the blood vessels and the discolored skin pigmentation caused by sun spots, reducing their appearance.
What Can You Expect During the Treatment?
Your surgeon will clean your skin thoroughly before the treatment. He will apply tracking gel over the target area and move the handpiece over the skin. The handpiece will direct light pulses over the targeted skin, and you will be able to hear an audible tone, see a flashing light, and feel a mild, prickly, and warm sensation on your skin.
A special contact piece is used to keep your skin temperature low and minimize discomfort during the procedure. The treatment’s time can vary depending on the patient’s needs and the surface area covered.
What Can You Expect Immediately After the Treatment?
Once the photofacial is completed, you may experience a sunburn sensation and minor swelling. These symptoms will usually last for less than a day, and you can reduce them with the help of cold ice packs.
Because patients benefit from treatments that are performed every three to four weeks, you will need a couple of treatment sessions, scheduled a few weeks apart. You can expect to see a big improvement with a series of four procedures. Your surgeon may also recommend maintenance treatments every six months for the best results.
Do You Need to Take any Precautions Before the Treatment?
After the procedure, your skin will be photosensitive, so extended exposure to the sun should be avoided. You will need to reschedule your session if you are sunburned or actively tanning. Moreover, you can’t be treated if you have an artificial tan. You should employ the use of broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) for a few weeks after the treatment.
Contact Our Office
Contact us to learn more about the Palomar Starlux photofacial procedure. Dr. Robert Lowen, a board-certified plastic surgeon, provides patients from all of Northern California with excellent care in a safe and comfortable setting. Your satisfaction is our top priority.