Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser
At Vue Dermatology & Laser, we offer the Vbeam® Perfecta pulsed dye laser (PDL)—a highly effective, non-invasive treatment that uses laser technology to precisely target unwanted blood vessels in the skin. Vbeam is an excellent option for conditions like rosacea (redness and broken capillaries), cherry angiomas, spider angiomas, port-wine stains, and scars.
The Vbeam Perfecta is a 595 nm wavelength pulsed dye laser that selectively heats and eliminates unwanted blood vessels while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. This makes it a highly effective and safe treatment for redness, broken capillaries (telangiectasias), and vascular lesions.
Vbeam is an excellent choice for treating various skin conditions, including:
- Rosacea: Reduces persistent redness and visible blood vessels (telangiectasias), improves skin tone and minimizes rosacea flare-ups
- Telangiectasias: Treats small, visible blood vessels and often provides long-lasting clearance
- Angiomas: Removes small, benign red bumps composed of blood vessels.
- Acne Scars & Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE): Reduces lingering redness from acne scars and helps even out skin tone for a smoother complexion
- Surgical scars and stretch marks: Reduces the redness in early-stage stretch marks and scars
- Port-Wine Stains: Effectively fades vascular birthmarks and eliminates the risk of them worsening later in life
The number of treatments depends on the specific lesion or condition being treated, but a series of treatments (3-5) is commonly needed. Some patients have excellent results with fewer; individual angiomas and telangiectasias may respond well to only 1-2 treatments. Treatments are typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results.
Vbeam treatments are generally well tolerated, although there is some level of discomfort that varies among patients. The pulses of the laser are sometimes likened to a rubber band lightly snapping against the skin. With each pulse of light, there is also a spray of cold air that helps increase the comfort and protect the skin that lies over the vessels being treated. Depending on what is being treated, sessions may last anywhere from a few minutes to 15 minutes. The treated area will feel warm with slight swelling and tingling during the treatment.
To ensure the best results and minimize side effects, please follow these pre-treatment recommendations:
- Arrive with clean skin
- No makeup, sunscreen, or moisturizer
- Avoid tanning (natural or artificial) for at least 2 weeks
- A tan increases the risk of burns and temporary skin darkening
- Discontinue non-prescribed blood-thinning medications or supplements the week prior
- This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and supplements like vitamin E, ginkgo, or ginseng. These can increase the risk of bruising from the laser
- Pause retinoids and exfoliating products for 3 days before your treatment
- Sensitive skin from these products may be more reactive to the laser
If you have a history of cold sores, inform Dr. Eliades to discuss preventing a flare
- Warmth or heat sensation for a few hours after the procedure.
- Redness and swelling typically lasts 1-3 days. Patients with increased skin sensitivity may have swelling that lingers slightly longer.
- Bruising may occur in some patients, lasting 7-10 days. If you take blood thinners or certain herbal supplements, you may be more prone to bruising.
Proper aftercare is essential to optimize healing and results and minimize complications:
- Apply cold compresses (5 minutes every couple of hours) on the first day to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Sleep with an extra pillow to elevate your head and minimize swelling.
- Consider taking an antihistamine (e.g., Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin) to reduce swelling if needed.
- Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
- Use gentle cleansers and bland moisturizers for at least 3 days
- Avoid retinoids and exfoliants for 1 week or until your skin fully heals
- Avoid activities that increase blood flow to the treated area
- This includes strenuous exercise, very hot showers, saunas, and hot tubs for at least 48 hours.
At Vue Dermatology & Laser, we provide expert care using proven laser technology for safe, effective treatment. Dr. Philip Eliades customizes each session to maximize results while ensuring patient comfort. If you’re looking to improve redness, broken blood vessels, or post-acne marks, Vbeam laser treatment may be the perfect solution for you. Contact us today to schedule your Vbeam consultation!
At a Glance
Philip Eliades, MD, FAAD
- Board-Certified Dermatologist
- Served as Chief Resident at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Author of numerous peer-reviewed research articles in leading Dermatology journals
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