Vascular Laser Treatments

Laser and IPL (intense pulsed light) can be used to treat a number of vascular conditions including port wine stain birthmarks (PWS), haemangioma, telangiectasia, spider naevi and rosacea.

The treatment involves the use of a specific laser light which is absorbed by the red blood vessels.

The laser light heats the blood and the blood vessel. It is the heat produced that then damages the blood vessel. This is how laser or IPL treatment works to reduce redness of the skin.

You may require several treatments with visits every 4 to 8 weeks depending on your individual requirements.

Developments in laser treatment mean that people can be helped with many aspects of redness that they find distressing or embarrassing. The treatments can provide a safe and effective way to reduce and manage vascular problems. There are some possible side effects.

Possible side effects of laser and IPL treatment

The treatment can be uncomfortable and may feel like being flicked with an elastic band. Following the treatment you may experience some redness or swelling. This will usually subside after 1-3 days. If you are having a PWS treated you may experience small dark red or purple bruises in the treated area which can last for up to 2 weeks. Blistering or crusting of the skin is not common. Infection of the skin is rare following a laser treatment. You can reduce the likelihood of any side effects by following the aftercare advice you are given.

Before treatment advice

Please avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 2 weeks before your laser appointment. It is important that you do not have a tan as this can increase the likelihood of side effects occurring. It is also important that you do not use any fake tan products or spray tan products. These contain pigments which can cause side effects to your skin and increase the risk of burning. If you have a darker skin tone naturally the laser can be adjusted to suit your particular skin colour.

Please do not wear any perfume or hairspray on the day of treatment. If you are having a facial laser treatment please do not wear any make-up. If you would prefer to travel to the hospital with make-up on please allow yourself time to remove it before your appointment.

After treatment advice

Please avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 2 weeks following your laser treatment. If you are having a course of laser treatment it is important to avoid getting a sun tan for the duration of your course of treatment. Please use a sun protection cream of factor 50 to any treated areas that are exposed. A hat with a large brim is helpful to help with additional protection for facial treatments as it offers some shade.

Avoid hot baths, showers, steam rooms and saunas for 48 hours and until any redness or swelling has subsided. After gently washing, pat the skin dry with a clean towel and apply a gentle moisturiser.

Do not apply make-up for 5-7 days following your treatment.

Avoid wearing tight clothing over any treatment area for a few days following treatment.

Please do not take part in contact sports or strenuous activities for a week following your treatment.

If you do experience any blistering or crusting leave the skin intact and do not pick or attempt to remove any crusting.

Any swelling can be reduced by using ice packs. Before using an ice pack apply some moisturiser to your skin and ensure a clean soft cloth is placed between your skin and the ice pack.

If you have any troublesome side effects please contact the laser unit or the dermatology department.

Price

Some patients have vascular problems which are not cosmetic and may in certain circumstances be funded by the NHS. Your GP will seek funding on your behalf if this is the case. Most patients seeking vascular laser treatments will be self-funding due to the cosmetic nature of the treatment. During you first consultation the practitioner carrying out the treatment will let you know the price for each treatment. The price will depend on the size of the area to be treated.