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LASER TREATMENTS

There are several types of lasers used in dermatology and aesthetics. Older laser technologies such as the continuous wave lasers of CO2 and argon have been replaced with fractional, Q-switched, diode and pulsed laser systems. The target tissue for laser light therapy, absorption wavelength of tissue, pulse duration and energy requirement, determines choice of laser to be used. All these procedures will require an initial consultation with a clinician or aesthetician.

Diode Laser Hair Removal

Unlike IPL, the diode laser is a true laser that delivers a concentrated beam of light directly to the targeted hair follicle. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment within the follicle, causing controlled thermal damage that inhibits future hair growth.

The diode laser operates at wavelengths of 755nm/808nm/1064nm, which is particularly effective for all skin types due to its deep penetration and high absorption of melanin. This results in a faster and more efficient hair removal treatment compared to IPL.

Treatment protocols are similar to those used in intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies. For optimal results, it is recommended to shave the treatment area 24–48 hours prior to your appointment. Please note that additional fees may apply for shaving or extended appointment durations.

Please note: This service is exclusively available at our Levin clinic.

Fractional CO2 Laser Rejuvenation

The Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fractional Laser Rejuvenation is an advanced skin treatment that targets multiple layers of skin in a fractionated, grid-like pattern. This method effectively addresses a variety of skin concerns, including freckles, sunspots, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, acne and burn scars, laxity, uneven skin tone, and facial redness. It is considered one of the most effective single treatments for advanced sun damage and significant wrinkling in mature skin types.

While the results from CO2 fractional laser resurfacing are typically visible within 4 weeks, improvements continue for 6 to 9 months as the skin undergoes a natural collagen-building process. In some cases, maintenance treatments may be required to preserve results, though the benefits of the procedure can last for many years with proper skincare and sun protection.

The procedure involves the application of topical anaesthetics and typically requires on average 6-12 days for the skin to heal fully. Given the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation associated with sun exposure, this treatment is not available from November through March, to minimize the potential for complications from sun exposure and heat during the summer months.

The cost of treatment will vary based on the condition of your skin, the size of the area to be treated, and your desired outcome. A detailed consultation will provide a tailored treatment plan and pricing estimate.

Comparison of Fractional CO2 Laser to Other Treatments:

Please note: This service is exclusively available at our Levin and Palmerston North clinics.

Laser Age Spot and Pigmentation Removal

Age spots, also referred to as liver spots or solar lentigines, are benign, brown lesions that develop on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight over time. These lesions, while non-cancerous, are often a source of cosmetic concern for many individuals. As such, various treatment options have been explored to address these unwanted spots. The most effective outcomes are generally achieved through combination therapies, which include prescription-strength skin lightening creams and professional in-office laser treatments.

The introduction of short-pulsed lasers, particularly Q-switched lasers, has revolutionized the treatment of age spots. These advanced lasers allow practitioners to selectively target and destroy the pigment within the age spots, resulting in significant clinical improvement. The procedure is associated with a low risk of adverse effects and boasts high patient satisfaction.

In most cases, 1 to 2 treatments are sufficient to effectively reduce or remove age spots. Noticeable results are typically evident 2 weeks after the initial session.

Successful treatment of age spots not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of the skin but also contributes to increased self-esteem and promotes a heightened awareness of overall skin health.

Please note: This service is available exclusively at our Levin and Palmerston North clinics.

Facial Spider Vein Reduction with Diode Laser

The 980nm diode laser is a highly targeted treatment that selectively penetrates superficial blood vessels. The heat generated by the laser coagulates the blood within these vessels, causing them to collapse and gradually fade from view. During treatment, a visible reduction in the appearance of blood vessels is typically observed due to restricted blood flow. However, it is not uncommon for some vessels to refill following the initial session, requiring additional treatments for optimal results.

In addition to vascular treatment, the diode laser stimulates collagen production within the dermis. This promotes increased skin thickness and density, which can further reduce the visibility of smaller blood vessels over time.

While the procedure may cause mild discomfort for some individuals, most patients tolerate it well and do not require topical anaesthesia. Depending on the skin condition and treatment intensity, noticeable improvement is often seen after 1 to 3 sessions.

The 980nm diode laser may be suitable for treating a variety of concerns, including:

Facial and neck spider veins or redness
Venous lakes on the lips
Sunspots and Hyperpigmentation
Milia and Acne

Please note: This service is exclusively available at our Levin and Palmerston North clinics.

Laser Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are often chosen at a younger age, and for some individuals, these decisions may lead to regret later in life—particularly when the tattoo includes a name or symbol they no longer wish to be associated with. Laser tattoo removal has been performed safely and effectively for over 20 years and remains the gold standard for removing unwanted tattoos.

Given the wide range of tattoo types—including amateur, professional, and semi-permanent—it is important to seek treatment from a practitioner experienced in managing various tattoo styles and pigments.

We utilise the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser, which is highly effective in significantly lightening and removing many types of tattoos. It is particularly successful with dark blue, black, and red inks, including cosmetic tattoos such as eyebrow liners.

Multiple sessions are typically required:

Amateur tattoos: 2–10 sessions
Professional tattoos: 5–20 sessions

Treatments are usually spaced six weeks apart to ensure optimal healing between sessions. Pricing is based on the size of the tattoo and the time required for treatment. A personalised quote will be provided by Dr Louw during your initial consultation.

Please note: This service is exclusively available at our Levin clinic.

Carbon Laser Facial

Experience visibly radiant skin after just one treatment with our Carbon Laser Facial — a non-invasive, gentle procedure that has gained popularity in Hollywood and across Asia for its impressive results and minimal downtime.

The treatment begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin, followed by the application of a medical-grade carbon paste, which is left to dry for approximately 15 minutes. A Q-switched ND:YAG laser is then used to heat and vaporize the carbon particles. This process targets the outermost layer of skin (epidermis), delivering focused laser energy while exfoliating the skin and clearing debris from pores.

Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or warmth. As the laser passes over the skin, it gently removes the carbon layer, providing a deep cleanse and a revitalized complexion. The full procedure takes around 40 minutes and requires no downtime, making it ideal for those seeking high-quality skin rejuvenation without disruption to their routine.

With a series of treatments, patients often notice:

Improvement in active acne
Reduction in acne scars and post-inflammatory pigmentation
Minimized pore size
Diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Enhanced collagen production and improved skin tone

Please note: This service is exclusively available at our Levin clinic.

Laser Fungal Treatment

Treating onychomycosis has traditionally been challenging due to the difficulty topical agents face in penetrating the nail plate and reaching the infected nail bed. While oral antifungal medications have shown efficacy, they carry a risk of systemic side effects and may lead to reduced patient adherence.

Laser therapy offers a modern, minimally invasive alternative with the potential for effective outcomes and fewer treatment sessions. Utilizing either an Nd:YAG 1064nm or Diode 980nm laser, energy is precisely delivered to the affected nail.

During the procedure, 8–10 passes are made over each nail, with a 30-second pause after every 3–4 passes to ensure patient comfort and treatment efficacy. The total energy delivered is carefully monitored in line with the recommended protocol for each laser type. A typical treatment plan involves 2–3 sessions spaced four weeks apart for optimal results.

Please note: This service is available exclusively at our Levin and Palmerston North clinics.