What skin conditions can be treated using the ICON laser?
The ICON laser is the most versatile treatment offered at Dr. Karu’s office. It can improve the appearance of:
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the face
- Unwanted hair almost anywhere on the face or body
- Stretch marks
- Scars, including both acne scars and surgical scars
- Skin changes, including age spots, sun damage, and inconsistent skin tone or texture
- Rosacea and capillaries near the surface of the skin
- Spider veins in the face, neck, and trunk
How does the ICON laser work?
The ICON laser transforms the skin by applying heat to deep layers of your skin, initiating natural collagen production. This increased collagen kicks your own natural healing process into gear, restoring volume to your skin and improving tone and texture.
How does laser hair removal work?
The ICON laser gets rid of unwanted hair for good by sending short-pulse durations of laser generated heat through your skin and directly into active-growth hair follicles. The laser light is absorbed by the pigments in the follicle, rendering it inactive so it can no longer produce hair.
The ICON laser can remove hair on virtually any part of your body, and it’s just as effective for small areas as it is for larger areas. Common treatment sites include the upper lip, chin, face, neck, bikini area, legs, chest, back, and shoulders.
How does the ICON laser erase brown spots?
Brown spots -- commonly known as age spots, sun spots, or liver spots -- are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation that typically appear on sun-exposed skin. They’re the result of overactive pigment cells that accelerate the production of melanin when exposed to ultraviolet light. When this extra melanin clumps, it forms visible brown spots on your skin.
The ICON laser targets excess pigment clumps in the deepest layers of your epidermis, where it breaks them apart into tiny particles that can be absorbed by your immune system. The laser also stimulates collagen production to help tighten and refresh underlying skin.
How long does it take to see results from the ICON laser?
Because the ICON laser triggers the natural healing process, results are generally seen 2-3 months after the procedure. Some patients report seeing results immediately after procedure, but this is usually the result of temporary swelling.
How many treatments are required?
Patients require an average of about four treatments to see the results they desire. The number of treatments you need depends on the severity of your skin changes. Severe scarring, for example, can require more treatments.
Is the ICON laser painful?
The ICON laser treats the deep layers of tissue with heat while cooling the surface of your skin, making the procedure more comfortable.
Are there any side effects from ICON laser treatment?
In the day following treatment, you may experience sensitivity, minor swelling, or a sunburn-like feeling in the treatment area. These symptoms usually subside 24 hours after treatment. In the next days, minor peeling is common.
Who is a good candidate for ICON laser treatment?
The ICON laser is safe for both patients with dark and light skin, making it a viable treatment option for almost any patient who has concerns about the appearance of their skin. Despite the safety and universal benefits of ICON laser treatment, Dr. Karu examines each patient to make recommendations that best support their safety and the achievement of their treatment goals.
*Individual results may vary.
