WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED?

Lumecca can be used on all areas of the body. The most common areas of treatment are zones that are regularly exposed to the sun. This often includes the face, neck, décolletage, legs, hands and arms.

WHAT STEPS MUST BE TAKEN BEFORE THE PROCEDURE?

• Avoid any tanning for 4 weeks prior to treatment. This includes any form of self-tanner (2 weeks).

• Do not use any retinol products (or products containing tretinoin) or exfoliants  and other irritant topical agents (Benzoyl peroxide, AHAs, BHAs)  on the area to be treated for one week. Avoid Accutane (or isotretinoin products) for 6 months prior.

• Let you skin practitioner know if you have a history of hyperpigmentation.

• Photosensitizing medications including doxycycline and minocycline should be discontinued three days prior to the treatment.

• Anticipate a social “downtime” mild redness, swelling, pigment darkening before sloughing off.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING AND AFTER LUMECCA?

During treatment there will be a bright flash of light from Lumecca, and a sensation on your skin that feels like a light snap from an elastic band. This is very tolerable and can be adjusted to your comfort level. Redness and a slight warming of the skin are normal after treatment and usually subside within a couple of hours. Over the next 24-48 hours you may see a darkening of pigmented spots; in the week afterwards the pigmented lesions flake off, leading to an evening out of skin tone. After treating vascular lesions you may see the vein blanch and disappear or a color change in the vessel which dissipates after a few days.

HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE RECOMMENDED?

An improved skin appearance can be noted after the first session. Multiple sessions provide even better results. Treatment regime depends on the severity of skin damage, skin type, type of treatment (vascular vs sun damage) and energy settings.

HOW QUICKLY WILL I SEE RESULTS?

Sun damage and skin complexion results can be seen a few days after the first session. The skin will continue to look younger and more brilliant over time with most visible results after 1-2 weeks. Having multiple photofacial sessions will improve the final result. For vascular treatments such as facial telangiectasias, results can be seen in up to 2 weeks.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Most patients do not experience any side effects and any skin reaction usually resolves within a few hours. Patients may find they are sensitive to sunlight immediately after treatment. It is recommended to avoid direct sunlight and tanning.

WHAT IS THE DOWNTIME?

The darkening and slough off can take 7-10 days in areas like chest, but face is usually a week. It is probably best to not plan a big event the week after, but things like a regular dinner out would be fine.