Led by Dr. Joel L. Cohen, a global authority in dermatological treatments, our team at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics ensures you receive care that's both expert and empathetic. Our Board-Certified Dermatologists leverage their extensive experience and the latest research to deliver PDL treatments and more that set industry standards.

What Is a Pulsed Dye Laser?

The pulsed dye laser (PDL) is a very specialized laser treatment that is the “gold standard” for treating redness, renowned for its effectiveness in targeting vascular skin conditions. Operating at a wavelength of 585 to 595 nm, the PDL precisely targets the hemoglobin in blood vessels. This allows it to effectively treat a variety of conditions characterized by redness, such as prominent blood vessels, rosacea, port wine stains and bruises following dermal filler injections. Most conditions require a series of PDL sessions to see improvement. 

This device delivers bursts of light that are absorbed specifically by the hemoglobin in blood vessels. The laser energy heats the targeted vessels, causing them to coagulate and subsequently be absorbed by the body, reducing visible redness and vascular lesions. The PDL’s specific targeting mechanism provides a safe, noninvasive treatment. Typically, a few treatment sessions are required for focal issues (like spider angiomas/cherry angiomas), with a low risk of side effects. 

Our Pulsed Dye Lasers at AboutSkin

At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we utilize two advanced PDL systems: VBeam and Cynergy.

VBeam®: The Gold Standard Pulsed Dye Laser

VBeam by Candela Medical is a pulsed dye laser renowned for its efficacy and safety in treating a wide variety of skin conditions. As one of the most researched and clinically proven laser technologies, it stands out as the gold standard for treating vascular lesions.

Technology and Wavelengths:

• The VBeam laser utilizes a 595 nm wavelength, perfectly matched to the absorption peak of oxyhemoglobin, making it highly effective at targeting blood vessels. The energy delivered by VBeam is absorbed by the blood in the vessels, causing the vessel walls to safely collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body.
• Featuring Candela's patented Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD), VBeam promotes patient comfort by spraying a cooling burst of cryogen milliseconds before the laser pulse, protecting the skin's surface and reducing the risk of side effects.

What VBeam® Treats:

• Rosacea and facial redness
• Broken capillaries
• Vascular birthmarks, such as port wine stains
• Cherry angiomas
• Hemangiomas
• Erythema (redness) associated with psoriasis and eczema
• Acne scars
• Inflammatory acne vulgaris
• Bruising after dermal filler treatment

The Candela VBeam is ideal for patients primarily concerned with superficial vascular lesions and those with sensitive skin, thanks to its effective cooling mechanism. It's particularly beneficial for treating facial redness, rosacea and acne-related skin concerns.

Cynergy™: Advanced Dual-Wavelength Technology

Cynergy by Cynosure is a state-of-the-art laser system that employs a unique dual-wavelength technology, combining a pulsed dye laser with an Nd:YAG laser. This innovative approach allows for versatile and effective treatment of a broad range of vascular lesions and skin concerns.

Technology and Wavelengths:

• The pulsed dye laser component of Cynergy operates at a wavelength of 585 to 595 nm, ideal for targeting superficial vascular lesions. It emits a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels, causing them to coagulate and subsequently be absorbed by the body.
• The Nd:YAG laser operates at a longer wavelength of 1064 nm, allowing deeper penetration into the skin. This makes it particularly effective for treating deeper vascular lesions such as venous lakes, leg veins and deeper blue veins that the PDL component may not reach.

What Cynergy™ Treats:

• Rosacea and facial redness
• Spider veins and reticular veins
• Broken capillaries
• Venous lakes
• Vascular birthmarks, such as port wine stains
• Cherry angiomas
• Hemangiomas
• Certain types of scars and stretch marks
• Inflammatory acne vulgaris
• Basal cells 
• Warts
• Age spots
• Bruising after dermal filler treatment

Given its dual-wavelength capabilities, Cynergy is well-suited for patients with a range of vascular concerns, from superficial to deeper lesions. 

Preparing for Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment

Preparation for a PDL session involves a few straightforward steps:

• Avoid sun exposure: Protect the areas that will be treated from direct sun exposure to reduce the risk of pigmentation changes.
• Skincare products: Temporarily pause the use of retinoids or other potentially irritating skincare products.
• Medication review: Discuss your current medications with one of our Board-Certified Dermatologists to determine whether they could impact your treatment.

What to Expect During Your Pulsed Dye Laser Procedure

The procedure is usually quick, depending on the treatment area's size. You might feel a warm sensation or a light snapping against your skin. The process is designed to be as comfortable as possible, offering effective skin rejuvenation with minimal discomfort.

Enhancing PDL Comfort and Safety With the Zimmer Chiller

Your comfort and safety are paramount during our PDL treatments. That's why we incorporate the cutting-edge Zimmer MedizinSystems Chiller, also known as Z Cryo, into our procedures. This advanced cooling device dispenses air cooled to as low as -22 degrees Fahrenheit, gently calming the treatment area. This process ensures the PDL's performance remains uncompromised while significantly minimizing the risk of thermal damage and elevating your comfort throughout the procedure. The Zimmer is especially beneficial for areas of the face that tend to be a little bit more sensitive, including the upper lip and cheeks.

Recovery After Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment

Post-treatment, some patients experience slight redness or swelling, akin to a mild sunburn. These symptoms typically subside within a few hours to a few days. 

Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect during recovery:

• Immediate aftercare: Cooling the treated area can alleviate any potential discomfort.
• Downtime: Most activities can be resumed immediately, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours.
• Skincare: Follow a gentle skincare routine to support healing.

Pulsed Dye Laser Results

Results vary depending on the condition treated but generally include:

• Reduced redness and improved skin tone: For conditions like rosacea, results can be dramatic.
• Less visible veins: Spider veins and visible blood vessels often fade significantly.
• Clearer skin: Overall skin appearance improves as targeted skin concerns are minimized.

Effects are typically visible after a few weeks, with further improvements with additional treatments.

How Much Does PDL Treatment Cost?

Costs vary based on the specific condition being treated, the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions required. During your consultation at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we'll provide a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your treatment plan.

Safely Treat Vascular Conditions With Pulsed Dye Laser

Choosing a treatment plan with pulsed dye lasers at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics means choosing a path to clearer, more radiant skin. Dr. Cohen and our team of dermatological experts are here to guide you every step of the way, from initial consultation to post-treatment care.

If you're ready to explore how PDL can transform your skin, schedule a consultation with us today. Let us help you achieve the beautiful, healthy skin you deserve.