Vascular Treatments
The versatility of our ICON™ Optimal Pulse Light (OPL) platform allows us to specifically target haemoglobin in blood vessels, collapsing unhealthy vessels so your body can naturally remove them without harming surrounding non-vascular and healthy tissue. ICON™ enables the treatment of visible blood vessels (also known as spider veins), inflammation associated with rosacea, and other vascular concerns, helping to improve skin tone and reduce visible redness.
This treatment is available for vascular structures on the face, neck, and décolletage (chest) only. It is not effective for larger or smaller vessels found on the legs.
Fine vascular systems of the skin, like other vascular systems in the body, can fail for several reasons. While damaged vascular structures are harmless, those close to the skin’s surface can be unsightly. Damaged vessels serve no functional purpose. By targeting and causing controlled injury to these structures, the body’s natural repair mechanisms are signalled to replace poor tissue with new, healthy tissue.
Our light therapies can treat small vein abnormalities. Larger vein concerns should be addressed by a relevant medical specialist.
The ICON™ OPL platform can also assist in reducing unnecessary inflammation and visible redness. For best outcomes, this treatment should be combined with complementary modalities, including topical skincare. OPL helps even out skin tone and supports the production of healthy skin tissue.
Treatable Conditions
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ICON™ can reduce the appearance of spider veins on the face, neck, and décolletage by delivering precise light energy at a frequency that targets haemoglobin in these vessels. The laser heats the vessel, damaging the cells and causing collapse. The collapsed vein becomes gradually less visible as it is naturally cleared by the body. Surrounding tissue remains unharmed.
Facial spider veins are common in both men and women and can be difficult to conceal. These veins also called telangiectasia are commonly caused by sun damage, alcohol, genetics, or inadequate skincare. While spider veins can be treated effectively, the underlying causes often remain. Without addressing the cause, maintenance treatments may be necessary.
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Rosacea (acne rosacea) is characterised by persistent redness, flushing, occasional pustule like lesions, and in some men a thickened, bulbous nose. It is a non-contagious inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the face and can be difficult to manage. Conventional medications often have limited effectiveness.
ICON™’s OPL, when combined with other modalities (such as topically applied bioactive products), may support the management of rosacea by targeting blood vessels responsible for visible redness and encouraging skin renewal.
FAQs
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Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may occur, but these are usually mild and resolve on their own. Patients should follow post-treatment care instructions to minimise risk.
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There is typically little to no downtime. Most people resume daily activities immediately. Sunscreen and makeup can be applied directly after treatment. Mild redness or swelling, similar to sunburn, and sometimes darkening along the actual vein/vessel, may occur and usually subsides within hours to days.
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The number of sessions varies depending on the size of the area treated, skin condition, genetics, and lifestyle. Most people require between one to three sessions.
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Patients often describe the sensation as a quick snap that lasts a fraction of a second. The treatment is generally well tolerated and does not typically require topical anaesthetic.
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Yes. It is important to avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks prior to treatment and for two weeks after treatment. Excess melanin produced from sun exposure may absorb the laser energy and increase the risk of pigmentation changes (light or dark spots), which may result in the need to reschedule treatment.
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Yes. We apply sunscreen and calming peptides post-treatment. Makeup can be applied immediately, but it is recommended to avoid harsh cleansers that may irritate the skin.
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Treatment duration depends on the size of the area but typically takes around 30 minutes. Please allow an additional 30 minutes for post-care including the application of peptides, cooling, and sunscreen.
After 1 vascular IPL treatment with Cynosure/Lutronic Icon machine at Seventh Layer.
After 1 vascular IPL treatment with Cynosure/Lutronic Icon machine at Seventh Layer.
After 1 vascular IPL treatment with Cynosure/Lutronic Icon machine at Seventh Layer.
Comparison of lip skin, showing dry, cracked lips on the left and moisturized lips on the right.
Close-up of a woman's face before and after treatment for facial redness, showing significant improvement.