Boston Cosmetic
Boston Cosmetic

AWAKEN THE

BEAUTY WITHIN

DARE TO LOOK YOUR

BEST

EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

TOGETHER

ATTRACT WITH

BEAUTY

CAPTIVATE WITH

CONFIDENCE

LIVE YOUR LIFE IN

HIGH DEFINITION

LOVE THE SKIN

YOU'RE IN

BE BRILLIANT, LET YOUR SKIN

RADIATE

Boston Cosmetic

Elite MPX Faq

Photofacial FAQ

What is a Photofacial?
Photo facial is a generic term for a skin treatment that uses some kind of light-based technology. Photo facials (sometimes called foto facials) have a number of different uses, but are mostly used for improving the skin by treating brown spots, broken capillaries, and boosting collagen production.

What is an IPL treatment?
IPL , short for intense pulsed light, is an FDA approved technology which uses short, safe bursts of light emitted from a flash-lamp to treat specific skin conditions. The technology is very sophisticated, it carefully delivers both the appropriate amount of light and the speed of its delivery to your specific skin condition. The light is absorbed by the pigment in sunspots and the blood in visible vessels, and converted to heat. The heat dissolves the cells that create the pigment and shrinks the vessels. IPL also stimulates the production of collagen, which plumps up the skin and gives you a fresher look, and refines or tightens large pores. The Elite MPX IPL by Cynosure is the most advanced IPL on the market today.

How does IPL work?
IPL uses short blasts of a polychromatic, high-intensity light to penetrate just below the skin’s surface, damaging either the melanin that makes up brown “age spots” or the blood vessels that create broken capillaries. The skin repairs the damage, leaving you with a more even skin tone. IPL is also touted as a way to boost collagen and elastin. It generally takes a series of treatments to see the best results, perhaps three to six treatments, usually a month apart

What does an IPL Photofacial treat?
An IPL photo facial can treat a variety of skin conditions such as brown spots, broken capillaries, spider veins, and facial redness. An IPL photo facial delivers a bright blast of light at very high energy levels through a hand-held device. While some IPLs have cooling devices, it can be uncomfortable, even painful.

What areas can be treated with an IPL Photofacial?
Face and neck, hands and arms, and chest are most common areas for a photofacial treatment.

How does IPL treatment differ from chemical peels and dermabrasion?
Unlike other treatments that remove an outer layer of skin and require significant healing time, laser treatment works by gently penetrating the skin to destroy the underlying vessels and pigment that are the cause of the problem. The outer skin itself is not damaged.

Who is the ideal candidate for a Photofacial?
As skin rejuvenation is based on light absorption by melanin and hemoglobin, treatments are most effective in clients with light skin who are not sun tanned. The lighter the skin, the more pronounced the contrast between the age spots or blood vessels and the skin, making the treatment most effective. The ideal candidate for IPL is someone with light skin who has sun damage, broken capillaries, and some laxity or lack of firmness, and wants to treat all three conditions at the same time.

What can I expect?
In the past, harsh treatments resulted in red, raw skin, with a long recovery period. The Elite MPX IPL provides the most comfortable, effective Photofacials available, without any downtime. Treatments are quick, non-invasive take about 30 minutes, with zero downtime (although the skin may be a bit pink for a few hours post treatment). You can return to work or other activities- looking and feeling fine. Clients can expect to see a gradual decrease in overall redness, flushing and dilated capillaries. Other benefits include smoother skin with a decrease in fine wrinkles, reduction in pore size and fading of sun spots. Safe, comfortable, Fast.

Does the Photofacial treatment hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation of the IPL as a warming sensation similar to the feeling one has after a day at the beach. There may be mild discomfort, which the integrated Zimmer cooler adequately alleviates. Generally no topical anesthetics are required.

How is the skin protected from heat damage during the treatment with Elite MPX?
This Zimmer skin cooling system is exclusive to Cynosure. It is specifically integrated with the machine and highly adjustable to treatment intensity and patient comfort making it best in class cooling. Adequate cooling protects the skin from over heating or over cooling damage.

How many treatments are required?
Typically several sessions are required for full-face treatment. The average treatment takes about 15 – 20 minutes. Results may be seen after the first few treatments. Treatments are spaced -three to four weeks apart. After the treatment series is completed, we recommend a maintenance treatment every three months. The treatment is performed in our relaxed, comfortable Boston Skin Essentials facility in Boston.

How quickly will I see results?
Most patients will begin to see results after three treatments. Brown pigmentation (age spots, sun damage) will disappear more quickly than discoloration caused by vascular irregularities. The effect on diminishing wrinkles will continue to be evident for six months after the last treatment.

What is the pre and post treatment care involved following a Photofacial?
Before an IPL Photofacial treatment you must avoid the sun, tanning beds and self-tanning creams and lotions. We may apply some ice immediately following your IPL treatment. Dr. Ishoo recommends that you keep out of the sun for a day or two after receiving treatment. Some patients might receive a slight redness and change in pigment in the treated area. It is recommended to use an SPF 30 before and after treatment.

How long does recovery take?
You’ll be able to return to normal activities immediately, though sunscreen should be applied as a post-treatment precaution.

What does the Elite MPX PhotoFacial treatment Cost?
A Foto Facial cost anywhere from $300 to $600 per treatment. One needs 4-6 treatments at least 3 weeks apart. You can contact Boston Skin Essentials and Cosmetic Surgery Center for specific pricing and for the number of treatments you will need.

At Boston Skin Essentials and Cosmetic Surgery Center, our medical staff is experienced with Boston area FotoFacial and photo facial IPL treatments to achieve the best facial rejuvenation results for our patients. Doctor Edwin Ishoo is a board certified surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery and has performed thousands of facial rejuvenation procedures and has been nationally recognized for his clinical skills and patient satisfaction. Contact us today at (888) 875-1845 to set up your complementary initial consultation. Our staff of experienced skin care specialists will make you feel welcome and will answer any questions or concerns you may have.

LASER Hair Reduction FAQ

What is the Elite MPX LASER system?
At Boston Skin Essentials we use the Elite MPX laser system because it’s the most advanced laser for hair removal on the market. The Elite MPX uses the MultiPlex technology which sequentially fires the Nd:YAG and Alexandrite wavelengths through the same hand piece with precision timing. This dual wavelength technology improves the outcome of the treatment, is more efficient, more comfortable and safer than single-wavelength lasers. What’s more, the Elite MPX is the most versatile platform on the market; it can address hair removal on all types of skin, plus it can treat redness, pigmentation, wrinkles, spider veins and more.

Is MultiPlex system better than other lasers on the market?
This system is better than single-wavelength systems because it uses two wavelengths sequentially, and the power of each wavelength can be adjusted in order to provide the most effective power-level, and to provide the most comfortable treatment without reducing the effectiveness of the procedure, thus making the Elite MPX the best laser on the market. For darker skin, the 1064 nm or Nd:YAG laser is the most effective, whereas the 755 nm or Alexandrite wavelength is the most effective for lighter skin tones. The MultiPlex has also shown to be the most effective laser on the market for hair removal and vascular treatments.

What are the benefits of the procedure?
There will no longer be a need for shaving, waxing or chemical bleaching.
There won’t be ingrown hairs.
You will save money on temporary hair removal methods.
You save time sitting in a chair for waxing, bleaching or threading.
You won’t have to constantly worry about shaving or waxing anymore.
It will enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

How does the laser cause permanent hair reduction?
The laser fires a beam of light energy, that light energy is absorbed by the melanin, the pigmentation and the blood vessels of the hair follicle. When the follicle absorbs the light, the light is converted into heat, which then destroys the follicle. Once the hair follicle is destroyed, it ceases to re-grow hair.

Hair follicles go through transitions of being active and dormant. During your treatment the laser will cover all of the skin’s surface area; however, only the active follicles will be affected by the laser. Due to the fact that only about 30 to 50% of your hair is active at any point in time, it will require multiple treatments to ensure that we get each and every hair follicle.

What parts of the body can be treated?
With the larger 18mm spot size, virtually every part of a man or a woman’s body can receive, fast and comfortable treatment, leaving you smooth from top to bottom. Women tend to treat the upper lip, the underarms, the bikini line, and the legs. Men generally treat the back of the neck, back, chest and abdomen.

Will the procedure be painful?
It’s not uncommon to experience a slight tingling or stinging sensation during the treatment. Each and every person has a different level of sensitivity and tolerance to stimulation. What may be uncomfortable to one person may not bother another person at all. It really all depends on your individual sensitivity and tolerance; most of our patients tolerate the treatments just fine. We also take extra measures to ensure that you are kept as comfortable as possible, we do this by applying numbing creams and using ice packs during the procedure.

How long are the treatments?
While your exact treatment time will depend upon which part of your body is being treated, all body areas take no longer than 30 minutes. The beauty of this procedure is that there is absolutely no downtime meaning you can literally come in on your lunch break and return back to your normal activities immediately after you get the procedure done.

Will the hair removal be permanent?
The beauty of laser hair removal is that it is permanent. The majority of patients can expect to achieve from 70 to 90% permanent hair reduction. Laser hair removal is not as effective on blond, red, or gray hair, and hormonal changes can cause re-growth, which may require additional treatments. With the Elite MPX laser, nearly everyone is a candidate for laser hair removal, and we can treat all skin colors and both fine and coarse hair. Since it’s less effective on lighter hair, we recommend you schedule a consultation so we can explain what types of results you should expect from the procedure.

What are the side effects?
With laser hair removal, side effects are uncommon but when they do occur they are generally temporary and mild, they may include: darkening of the skin, loss of skin pigmentation, temporary redness, swelling or itching of the treated area, small bumps like goose bumps (follicular edema), and bruising. We tell our clients the best way for them to maximize results is to stay out of the sun for the two weeks before the procedure and two weeks afterward. Clients who are pregnant should be aware that they may experience different results due to hormonal changes.

What will I look like in between sessions?
We will remove most of the visible hair during each session. Whatever is left over will shed naturally in approximately two weeks. Your skin should remain clear and smooth for the next 4 to 6 weeks before you see fine hairs to grown in. By repeating your sessions on schedule, the treated area will remain free of hair throughout your multiple treatment sessions, so your skin will appear clear and smooth.

Am I a candidate for laser hair removal?
Clients will see visible results after their first treatment, their hairs are fewer and finer; the skin is smoother and the pores are less noticeable. You will see more impressive results with each treatment; however, laser hair removal is less effective on people with blond, gray, or red hair. For people with lighter hair, electrolysis is still their best option. We offer an initial complimentary consultation where we can determine if you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal and what to can expect.

How much does laser hair removal cost.
Boston Skin Essentials offers a free consultation to discuss your treatment options and expectations. Prices are based on the size of the area being treated and per a session. Our prices are very competitive, but since most people require at least 4 sessions, we offer discounted package deals and we gladly offer discounts on multiple areas.

What are the risks involved?
Immediately after the treatment it’s common to experience a slight redness and swelling surrounding the hair follicles; it resembles goose bumps and can be compared to a mild sunburn. This reaction is the desired clinical result which indicates the hair follicle is responding correctly to the treatment. These mild side effects last from 12 to 48 hours following treatment and gradually subside.

How many treatments are needed?
Since the hair goes through transitional active and dormant stages, it will be necessary to have multiple treatments. The exact amount of treatments will vary depending upon the thickness of the hair, the stage of growth, the skin and hair color. Most patients experience 70 to 90% permanent hair reduction in 8 to 12 treatments. We find that 4 to 8 treatments at 4 to 6 week intervals between treatments is the most effective course.

Can the Elite MPX treat anybody?
The Elite MPX is the most versatile laser system on the market thanks to the MultiPlex technology which uses two wavelengths, as compared to single-wavelength lasers. The Elite MPX can be used safely on all skin types and provides superior results for hair removal, treating spider veins, diffusing redness, general dyschromia (discolored skin), and photfacial.

What is integrated cooling?
We use what is called integrated cooling, this makes laser hair removal far safer and more comfortable and better than Cryogen or Contact cooling. The Elite MPX uses the Zimmer Integrated Cooling System which cools the skin before, during and after the laser fires, providing patients with superior comfort. During treatment, your skin will continuously receive chilled air that will protect your skin’s tissues and minimize discomfort.

Can the Elite MPX treat age spots and brown spots?
Yes it can, providing you have already visited with your dermatologist to have your brown spots pre-screened for pre-cancerous cells or cancerous cells. Once it’s determined that there aren’t any medical concerns, then brown spots can be safely and effectively removed using the Elite MPX Alexandrite laser. The Alexandrite laser is the gold standard when it comes to targeting all types of brown or unwanted pigment, and can painlessly eliminate all types of sun damage, or red or brown spots.

Why Boston Skin Essentials for laser hair removal?
At Boston Skin Essentials, Board-Certified surgeon Dr. Edwin Ishoo only uses the latest, most state-of-the-art technology available on the market. The new Elite MPX laser system, made by Cynosure, Inc. offers the best laser technology on the market today; not all lasers are created equal or can treat all skin types. The laser’s manufacturer Cynosure, Inc. is a leading developer and manufacturer of laser and light-based aesthetic systems, and we are proud to be offering this advanced technology because our clients deserve only the best the market has to offer. We can customize your treatment, regardless of the color or type of your skin to ensure you get incredible results.

Spider Vein Treatment FAQ

Who is at risk for spider veins?
Spider veins are very common. In fact, most people eventually have spider veins on their legs. Generally, they develop more often in women (50-55%) than men (40-45%). We do not really know why spider veins develop. Most of the treatments we perform for spider veins are for our female patients.

What are the causes of Spider Veins?
A number of factors predispose a person to varicose veins and spider veins. These include:

  • Heredity.
  • Occupations that involve a lot of standing, such as nurses, hair stylists, teachers, and factory workers.
  • Obesity.
  • Hormonal influences during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause.
  • The use of birth control pills.
  • Postmenopausal hormonal replacement.
  • A history of blood clots.
  • Conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen including tumors, constipation, and externally worn garments like girdles.

Other reported causes include trauma or injury to the skin, previous vein surgery, and exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Are spider veins a medical issue or just cosmetic?
Spider veins are rarely a serious health problem. Very rarely spider veins will become so large and fragile that they will bleed. This usually occurs in patients with very dense spider veins around the ankles. The ankles almost appear to be purple because of the density of the veins. Other symptoms that may be present in the area of spider veins usually cannot be attributed to the veins. These sensations or symptoms have explanations other than the spider veins.

Are spider veins related to varicose veins?
Spider veins occur independent of varicose veins and vice versa. Patients with severe varicose veins many not have any spider veins. People with terrible spider veins may have not one varicose vein. We consider the two types of veins to be independent of one another. When we treat patients with both varicose veins and spider veins we generally treat the varicose veins first so that the health of the leg is optimized.

What parts of the body can be treated?
We can perform spider vein laser treatment on the face, chest and legs with great results. Also, cherry angioma’s can be treated in 1-2 treatments.

Why is the Elite MPX LASER superior to other LASERs on the market?
Only Elite MPX has patented MultiPlex technology — two wavelengths that fire sequentially and work beautifully together. The technologic advances which enable the Elite MPX to provide safer, more effective treatments than any other LASER are:

  • MultiPlex™ LASER technology — Alexandrite (755nm) and Nd:YAG (1064nm) wavelengths blended into one pulse.
  • Greater absorption and deeper penetration — Delievers optimal results in less time.
  • Integrated Zimmer SmartCool® skin cooling technology — More effective results with less discomfort. · Larger Spot Size — 44% more treatment area per pulse.

What should I expect during Spider Vein treatment with the Elite MPX?
In laser spider vein removal, light passes through the skin and sends pulses of energy to the targeted vein without harming the surrounding tissue. As the blood absorbs the light, it heats up and causes the targeted vein to shrink, eventually resulting in its disappearance. Laser spider vein removal requires no injections and no incisions. Generally, patients only experience a minimal amount of heat. Treatment time is about 20 minutes but may be longer or shorter depending on the severity of the veins and the size of the affected area. For optimal results, several laser spider vein removal sessions may be necessary. All treatments are done by Certified Laser Specialist under Dr. Edwin Ishoo supervision.

What happens over time after the treatment?
With laser spider vein removal, veins fade significantly or clear completely. Skin looks more uniform and youthful. Although laser vein removal may not correct all the imperfections of the treated area, the overall results are successful; most patients are satisfied with treatment. Laser vein removal does not prevent new veins from forming, however. If new veins appear over time, further treatment may be needed to maintain the results of previous treatment.

Is LASER spider vein treatment right for me?
Spider vein treatment is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Spider vein treatment can be performed on people of any age and is a good option for you if:

  • You are bothered by spider veins anywhere on your body
  • You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for your spider vein treatment
  • You are committed to following your plastic surgeon’s prescribed course of treatment

What should I expect for spider vein treatment results and outlook?
After about a month of healing, you may be ready for a second vein treatment. With each treatment, you will notice further improvement of your skin’s appearance. It’s important to know treatment may not prevent new spider veins from surfacing in the future. As time passes, you may find that you need further treatments to take care of any new veins that may emerge.

What is the spider vein treatment recovery?
Every patient heals at a different rate. However, you can expect that your recovery will follow this general time line:

Within the first week

  • You will be encouraged to walk
  • The tape, cotton balls or any other dressings (if used) will be removed from the treated areas when recommended by the
  • The treated sites may have mild bruising.
  • You may be instructed to wear support stockings for one to two weeks
  • You should avoid squatting, heavy lifting and running

Within one month

  • The bruises at the treated sites will diminish
  • You will begin to feel more comfortable wearing leg-baring fashions
  • You can resume most exercise; however, your doctor should be consulted if you plan to do any weight lifting or jogging
  • One month after the first treatment, spider veins are distinctly lighter, yet still somewhat visible
  • After two or more treatments, the leg appears noticeably clearer and more attractive

Am I a good candidate for LASER spider Vein treatment?
Good candidates for spider vein laser treatment have light to medium skin tone which is not tanned or recently exposed to the sun. Small spider veins and rosacea on the face can be effectively treated by the YAG Laser. Rosacea and diffuse redness can be best treated with a PHOTOFACIAL OR IPL (link) treatment. Large or varicose veins (blue in color) are not effectively treated by this method.

What is the cost of laser spider vein treatment?
Cost may vary depending on the density of veins and size of area. However, as an estimate, you may expect $150 per treatment area. Consultations are complimentary and you will receive a firm cost during your consultation at Boston Skin Essentials and Cosmetic Surgery Center

Top