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See how ideals of beauty around the world have evolved over the centuries in this kaleidoscope of images that changes throughout the site. |
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Ten people, 10 days
and the challenge to
the best experts in
the field: make these willing guinea pigs look 10 Years Younger. |
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Check this page regularly to find out what's making the headlines – be it health scares or new advances – in the world of cosmetic treatments. |
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Lasers produce a high-intensity ray of pure light which gives off heat energy. This energy is absorbed by different body tissues, depending on the colour of the laser beam. That's why laser light can pass safely through the skin, and destroy targeted cells under the surface without harming surrounding areas. For red veins, the laser beam homes in on the tiny blood-filled vessels beneath the skin.
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It can be used on a range of problems to do with veins and skin pigment, including spider veins, freckles, age spots, port wine stains, permanent red rashes (rosacea), birthmarks, warts, scars, stretch marks and some tattoos. |
Not all marks will disappear completely, but there should be a noticeable reduction. Success depends on an experienced operator using the right type of laser machine for your particular condition.
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As with any cosmetic treatment, you should consult a qualified practitioner before deciding to go ahead.
On the day, the area may be lightly anaesthetised with cream, and you'll wear goggles to protect your eyes. When the shots of laser light are given some people feel burning or stinging, while others find the process more painful, like an elastic band being snapped on to the skin. The number of repeat treatments varies according to the type of problem being treated. Red veins usually need three treatments, spread over several weeks.
The area might be reddened and feel hot after treatment, but this will quickly fade, and you can return to normal daily life immediately. Occasionally there is a little bleeding or blistering which should be left to heal naturally to avoid scarring.
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Results emerge gradually over a series of treatments. The effect is permanent, but you should avoid any known triggers to prevent new veins developing. |
Skin might look discoloured or scaly after treatment, but this should gradually fade. There's a very low risk of permanent changes to skin colour or minor scarring.
People with light sensitivity, or who have a cold sore or other skin infection near the treatment area, cannot be treated. This treatment is not suitable for dark complexions or sun-tanned skin. You should not have laser treatment if you have been treated for acne with Isotretinoin in the previous year.
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Treatment can be given by medical professionals, or by trained beauticians. Make sure that the practitioner you choose has plenty of experience of treating your problem. |
The cost starts at around £100 per session for a small area, and rises to £400 for a larger treatment. You will need from three to six sessions, depending on the problem. |
There's little you can do with existing red veins apart from camouflaging them with make-up. Some conditions, like rosacea, can be treated with antibiotics when they flare up.
To prevent new veins, and avoid recurrence after treatment, steer clear of triggers such as excessive drinking, exposure to sun, spicy foods and any cosmetic that provokes a skin reaction.
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Organisation
British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
c/o The Royal College of Surgeons of England
35-43 Lincoln's Inn Fields
London WC2A 3PE
Advice Line: 020 7405 2234
E-mail: info@baaps.org.uk
Website: www.baaps.org.uk
Offers information about aesthetic plastic surgery; its website features a search facility for accredited surgeons.
Links
The Consulting Room
www.consultingroom.org
Good UK site that provides a wide range of impartial and independent cosmetic and medical information and demystifies the world of cosmetic treatments.
Laser Thread Vein Removal
www.medicdirect.co.uk/clinics/default.ihtml?step=4&pid=1910
Medic Direct is a health website hosted by specialists. This article on laser vein removal looks at the techniques used and the risks involved.
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