Laser treatments can be incredibly effective at treating active acne.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a skin rejuvenation treatment that uses high intensity pulses of visible light (or light energy) to improve the appearance of dark spots (age spots, sun spots or freckles), vascular lesions (such as spider veins, rosacea), as well as fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, acne and acne scarring. The process is referred to as photorejuvenation.

IPL is similar to lasers in that light energy is absorbed into cells with specific color targets, referred to as chromophores (such as melanin or hemoglobin). The light energy is absorbed by the color target and is converted to heat energy, which causes damage to the specific target area. IPL is different than lasers in that they deliver many wavelengths (or colors) of light in each pulse instead of a single wavelength. Filters can be used to focus on more specific targets.

IPL is considered a non-ablative resurfacing therapy, which means it targets the lower layers of the skin (dermis) without affecting the top layers of skin (epidermis). The advantage of IPL therapy is its minimal downtime--a patient can often have the procedure done and immediately return to work or other social functions.

What does an intense pulsed light procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not usually necessary.
• A cold gel is applied to the area being treated.  A smooth glass surface that is cooled is then applied to the skin and delivers precise pulses of light to the area being treated.
• Throughout the treatment session, the patient must wear protective eyewear.
• IPL treatments are relatively painless. The sensation is often described as a light pinch or a snap of a rubber band.
• Treatment sessions usually last about 20 minutes. A course of 4-6 sessions every 3-6 weeks may be needed to achieve desired results.
• Most patient can return to work immediately after treatment.

What are the side effects to intense pulsed light therapy?

Side effects are minor and include:

• Pain during treatment. This is reduced by contact cooling and sometimes, topical numbing cream.
• Mild sunburn sensation that may last a few days after the treatment.
• Blistering can sometimes occur.
• Unintended damage to pigment cells that results in lighter or darker patches of skin (called hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation). White patches are rarely permanent.
• Hair loss may occur.
• Bruising can occur in up to 10% of patients.

Dermal fillers are among the most common, nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. Dermal fillers are composed of a synthetic hyaluronic acid gel, which is a naturally occurring substance in the skin. They are injected under the skin to treat volume loss. Dermal fillers are a safe and cost-effective alternative to plastic surgery and can provide natural looking results.

As we age, the face goes through several physical changes which in part is caused by loss of structural support, as well as loss of volume and migration of fat pads. This may appear as hollow temples, sunken eyes, flattened cheeks, deep lines around the nose and mouth, and loose sagging skin around the jawline. Many people begin to notice signs of facial volume loss starting in their 20s and 30s. The process accelerates as we age and can be influenced by a number of environmental and behavioral factors. Dermal fillers can provide immediate improvement to affected areas.

Specific benefits dermal fillers can provide include:

• Enhance lips and correct asymmetry
• Correct facial lines such as Marionette lines or parentheses
• Decrease sunken eyes, tear troughs and under eye circles
• Improve volume loss in the midface
• Enhance cheek contours
• Augment the chin and sculpt the jawline
• Soften facial lines and wrinkles, or provide an "airbrushed" look

It is important to consult with a medical provider who is knowledgeable and trained in dermal fillers when considering this procedure.

What should you expect when receiving dermal fillers?

• Avoid aspirin, vitamin E, St. John's Wort, and other dietary supplements including: ginkgo, evening primrose oil, garlic feverfew, and ginseng for 2 weeks before your procedure
• Avoid ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and alcohol for 2 days before your procedure.
• If possible, come to your appointment with a cleanly washed face without makeup.
• A full face assessment will be performed and recommendations made based on the desired outcome.
• Your face will be cleansed with a skin cleanser.
• Topical numbing creams and/or local nerve blocks may be performed to help minimize discomfort during the procedure.
• Our fillers are also infused with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to help reduce discomfort.
• Injections are then performed and usually require multiple sites of injection. Several syringes of product may be required depending on the degree of volume loss and desired result.
• The procedure can take 30-45 minutes.

Dermal fillers are temporary and can last between a few months to several years depending on the individual. Repeat treatments are necessary to maintain results.

What are the side effects to dermal fillers?

Minor side effects include:

• Skin redness and swelling in the treatment area is common. This should resolve within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs applied frequently are helpful.
• Bruising
• Visible or palpable filler lumps or bumps
• Asymmetry, over correction or under correction
• Bluish discoloration
• Migration of filler
• Darker or lighter discoloration (called hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation)

More serious side effects include:

• Scarring
• Blockage of an artery in the face which can cause tissue damage and skin necrosis
• Blindness
• Stroke
• Severe allergic reaction including the remote possibility of anaphylaxis

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Botox and Dysport are neuromodulators that block nerve signs and relax muscles. It is injected in small quantities into specific areas of the face to treat concerns including forehead lines and wrinkles, frown lines, crow's feet or lines along the outside of the eyes, chin dimples, small upper lips, and fine lines around the mouth. Botox injections are safe when performed by a trained and knowledgeable provider and are relatively painless. Results can be noticed within 3-5 days of treatment with peak effect being two weeks after injection. Results last 3-4 months depending on the amount of Botox or Dysport used.

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What does a procedure involve?

• Avoid aspirin for 2 weeks prior to your procedure.
• Avoid NSAIDS such as ibuprofen and naproxen, as well as alcohol for 2 days prior to your procedure.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not usually necessary.
• A full face analysis will be performed.
• Specific treatment areas will be marked with an eyeliner, followed by multiple injections of small quantities of Botox or Dysport into the desired area.
• You can return to your normal social functions immediately after treatment.

General injection-related side effects include:

• Pain
• Bruising
• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Infection
• Numbness

Complications related to Botox/Dysport include:

• Droopy eyebrow
• Droopy eyelid
• Incomplete eyelid closure
• Impaired blink reflex
• Double vision
• Drooping on one side of your lips with smile asymmetry
• Extremely rare complications include immediate hypersensitivity reaction, angioedema, and anaphylaxis

The effects and complications of Botox/Dysport are temporary and wear off in 3-4 months.

Microneedling radiofrequency or "microneedling RF" is currently one of the most sought after anti aging and skin rejuvenation treatments. It specifically improves fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone and texture, large pores, scars and skin laxity.

The device inserts microneedles deep into the dermis in a smooth and controlled manner while simultaneously delivering radiofrequency heat at a precise depth. The micro channels that are created stimulate natural collagen production, and the heat from the radiofrequency promotes remodeling of collagen and elastin to tone and tighten skin. At Meraki Medical Aesthetics, we use the Virtue RF microneedling device which stands apart due to its robotic precision delivery system and sub pulse technology. Sub pulse technology allows RF energy to be broken down into sub pulses without compromising results. Treatments are therefore not only safe and effective for light and darker skin types, but can also be customized to treat specific skin concerns. An innovative post-care treatment mask is combined with microneedling RF. The mask uses microcurrent technology to drive naturally-occurring antioxidants, vitamins, moisturizers and anti-inflammatory agents deep into the skin. This soothes the skin and eliminates redness. Minimal discomfort, minimal downtime, incredible results!

What should I consider with a microneedling RF procedure?

• This anti-aging treatment is suitable for all skin types with little risk of side effects when performed properly.
• There is minimal downtime with microneedling RF, so you can resume your normal activities the next day.
• Microneedling RF requires multiple treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
• Results rely on new collagen production which continues for up to 6 months after treatment.
• This procedure can cause dark spots (or hyperpigmentation) if the procedure is performed too aggressively.

What does a microneedling RF procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure for 1-2 weeks prior to your procedure.
• Avoid aspirin for 7 days, and NSAIDS and alcohol for 2 days prior to your procedure.
• Avoid wearing makeup to your appointment if possible.
• Your skin will be cleaned with a topical skin cleanser such as alcohol.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the treatment area to help minimize discomfort.
• Microneedling RF treatments with the virtue RF can be relatively painless. The sensation is often described as a stinging discomfort which is brief.
• Treatment sessions usually last about 20 minutes. A course of 4 sessions every 4-6 weeks is usually recommended to achieve optimal results, followed by maintenance treatment every 6 months.
• Following your procedure, a wet mask infused with antioxidants, vitamins, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties will be applied to your skin.
• Most patients can return to work immediately after treatment.

What are common side effects to microneedling RF?

• Pain during treatment. This is reduced by topical numbing cream.
• Mild redness.
• Minimal pinpoint bleeding which is normal.
• Mild sunburn sensation that may last a few days after treatment.
• Unintended damage to pigment cells that results in darker patches of skin (called hyperpigmentation).

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A chemical peel is a procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back is smoother, more healthy and radiant. Chemical peels are used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, uneven skin tone, acne/acne scars or other scarring, large pores. They can be done at different depths, from light to deep. Light to medium makes may require more than one procedure to achieve desired results. Deeper chemical peels offer more dramatic results but take longer to recover.

What does a chemical peel procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not usually necessary
• A chemical peel solution is applied to the skin. Several applications may be necessary to achieve desired results
• Mild burning sensation is common during and after the procedure.

What are the side effects to chemical peels?

Side effects are minor and include:

• Mild sunburn sensation that may last a few days after the treatment.
• Darkening or lightening of skin color.  This can be more common in people with darker skin.

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CO2 lasers are the gold standard for treating wrinkles, age spots, acne scars and other blemishes, loose skin, and uneven tone. Heat energy is applied to the skin, damaged skin is removed or ablated, and collagen production is stimulated. Traditional CO2 treatments require considerable downtime and risk while the damaged skin heals. At Meraki Medical Aesthetics, we use CoolPeel which is an advanced technology offered through the SmartXide Tetra CO2 laser. With CoolPeel, high energy is delivered in extremely short pulses to resurface superficial skin. There's no lingering heat to cause unintended damage to surrounding skin, resulting in less downtime and minimal risk of skin darkening (hyperpigmentation), demarcation or infection.

What does a fractional CO2/CoolPeel procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not always necessary.
• Throughout the treatment session, the patient must wear protective eyewear.
• IPL treatments are relatively painless. The sensation is often described as a hot static sensation.
• Treatment sessions usually last about 15 minutes. A course of 4-6 sessions every 4-6 weeks may be needed to achieve desired results.
• Most patient can return to work immediately after treatment.
• The procedure results in microscabs on the skin that feel like sandpaper and slough off within 5-7 days.

What are the side effects to fractional CO2 ablation?

Side effects include:

• Pain during treatment. This is reduced by topical numbing cream.
• Mild sunburn sensation that may last a few days after the treatment.
• Redness and/or swelling of the treatment area is common.
• Unintended damage to pigment cells that results in lighter or darker patches of skin (called hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation).
• Treatment can result in burning, blistering, or bleeding of the treated area(s), but is unlikely.
• Infection can occur but is rare with proper postcare treatment.
• Scarring is a rare occurrence, but is a possibility when the skin surface is disrupted.

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The laser bamboo facial is a signature treatment that uses advanced laser technology and organic bamboo cream to remove debris and impurities, and tone and tighten the skin. It leaves skin feeling clean, radiant and glowing. It's a perfect refresh to be photo-ready for any occasion!

What does a laser bamboo facial involve?

• Avoid sun exposure in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• Throughout the treatment session, the patient must wear protective eyewear.
• A provider cleans the skin and then applies an organic bamboo charcoal mask.
• Heat and energy are then applied to the mask using a laser to open pores and adhere debris and impurities to the mask.
• The laser is then used to peel the mask, taking with it the debris and impurities.
• Finally, a gentle laser facial is performed which closes pores and tightens the skin.
• Laser bamboo facial treatments are painless. The sensation is often described as heat or sometimes a light snap of a rubber band.
• Treatment sessions usually last about 20 minutes.
• Most patient can return to work immediately after treatment.

What are the side effects to a laser bamboo facial?

Side effects are minor and include:

• Mild discomfort during treatment.
• Mild sunburn sensation may occur and usually lasts 1-2 days.

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What if you never had to shave, tweeze, wax or sugar again?

Unwanted hair can be reduced with little to no discomfort using our advanced laser technology (together with a cooling device).

What does a laser hair removal procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• Avoid waxing or tweezing hairs. Hair must be visible at the surface of the skin.
• It is recommended to shave the area either the day of the procedure or 1-2 days prior.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not always necessary.
• Throughout the treatment session, the patient must wear protective eyewear.
• Cool air is delivered to the treatment area using a cooling device to minimize discomfort.
• Heat energy is then delivered using a laser to target unwanted hair.
• The sensation is described as a snap from a rubber band.
• Treatment sessions for small areas can be as short as 5-10 minutes. Larger areas take longer to treat.
• A course of 4-6 sessions every 6 weeks is recommended to achieve desired results.

What are the side effects of laser hair removal?

Side effects are minor and include:

• Pain during treatment. This is reduced by cooling and topical numbing cream.
• Mild sunburn sensation that may last a few days after the treatment.
• Redness and swelling.
• Unintended darkening or lightening of skin (called hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation).
• Paradoxical hair growth.
• Temporary or permanent gray hair.
• Scarring is a rare occurrence.

At Meraki Medical Aesthetics, we offer tattoo removal for black, dark blue, brown, red, orange, yellow, purple and sky blue colors. We use a cooling device to minimize discomfort with the procedure. We've received incredible feedback from patients who are excited to experience little to no pain.

What does a laser tattoo removal procedure involve?

• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area in the days and weeks before and after treatment.
• A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area but is not always necessary.
• Throughout the treatment session, the patient must wear protective eyewear.
• Cool air is delivered to the treatment area using a cooling device to minimize discomfort.
• Heat energy is then delivered using a laser to target unwanted hair.
• The sensation is described as a snap from a rubber band.
• Treatment session duration depends on the size of the tattoo.
• Several treatments are usually required. Follow-up is recommended 45-60 days after treatment.

What are the side effects of laser tattoo removal?

Side effects are minor and include:

• Pain during treatment. This is reduced by cooling and topical numbing cream.
• Mild burning sensation that may last a few days after the treatment.
• Redness and swelling.
• Unintended darkening or lightening of skin (called hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation).
• Scarring is a rare occurrence.

Awaken your skin with a hydrofacial!

Solutions rich in alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA), hyaluronic acid and hydrogen (H2) are infused deep into the skin, while gentle extraction removes impurities. A hydrofacial leaves your skin feeling bright, hydrated and revitalized! It is safe for all skin types.

Skinwave’s aqua-delivery system includes a unique hydrogen therapy step utilizing water infused with hydrogen. The high concentration of hydrogen reacts with active oxygen in the skin that is linked to drying and aging. The hydrogen bonds with the oxygen to form bound water molecules that are then extracted. This unique Skinwave step provides antioxidant and moisturization benefits and also reduces inflammation.

Specific benefits of Skinwave’s solutions includes:

• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA): exfoliates dead skin cells and serves as a mini peel to brighten and smooth.
• Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA): deeply cleanse pores and helps regulate oil.
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA): best known for its hydration properties to soothe inflammation and moisturize skin.

A hydrofacial can be done every few weeks to months and is a quick and effective skin refresh before important social events.