As we get older, especially following extensive sun exposure, our skin may show signs of aging.  These include brown pigmented sun spots, diffuse redness and visible capillaries, thinner and less elastic skin, more noticeable lines and skin that is loose and may sag.

 

The sun is responsible for much of the damage to our skin as we age. Other factors include our genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, chemicals that sensitise the skin such as those found in some perfumes.

 

The Plasma Portrait is a revolutionary new device that regenerates skin. While some treatments lead to improvements at the surface only, the Plasma Portrait works in the deeper layers of the skin (or dermis) to create conditions for continuing regeneration and improvements in wrinkles, tone, texture and discolouration. This unique procedure transfers plasma energy to the skin without direct contact and acts to preserve the skin’s outer layers which act as a protective dressing until new skin regenerates.

 

Shortly after treatment, you will see improvements in skin texture and tone, diminished wrinkles giving you a new, more vibrant and youthful appearance.

A localised sensation of heating may be experienced during this brief treatment. A topical anaesthetic will be applied before the procedure, although your doctor may recommend other approaches.

 

Your doctor will recommend an appropriate number of treatments. This will vary from one to four treatments depending on the desired outcome. The final result and the number of treatments depend on a number of factors including individual differences, the types and locations of the lesions, the skin type and the degree of sun tanning.

As with any medical procedure, the final treatment outcome cannot be predicted or guaranteed due to physiological differences. Rarely, some individuals may have little or no response.

You will see results soon after treatment. However, this unique treatment stimulates the body’s natural process of regeneration. Clinical studies show that skin improvement continues for as long as one year after treatment.

 

At low power levels, common side effects may be similar to a mild to severe sunburn including discomfort, moderate to severe redness, mild to moderate swelling and peeling. At higher power levels, the side effects are more pronounced and include more discomfort, redness and swelling, blistering, bruising, scabbing and the outer layer of skin will become brown and is shed after 4 to 5 days. In some patients, shedding may be delayed and localised redness may persist for some time. Singeing of hair, including eyebrow and eyelash hair is common. Most people are able to return to their regular activities after 10 to 14 days.

Patients should use their prescribed Rationale Skincare regime to obtain optimum results. Occasionally, your doctor may prescribe other pre treatment regimes. 

 

If necessary, shave the area to be treated. Arrive early for your appointment and remove any make up, sunscreen or moisturiser containing sunscreen.

 

We strongly recommend that you avoid direct sun exposure and self tanning products for at least 1 week and preferably 1 month before treatment.

 

We will provide you with a detailed after care treatment regime to follow. We will advise you when you can return to your regular skin care regime and when you can apply make-up (usually after the immediate effects of treatment have settled). We recommend that you use a broad spectrum, high SPF sun screen and continue your prescribed Rationale Skincare regime as detailed in the post care information sheet. You should also avoid direct sun and solariums for at least 1 month following treatment. The longer this period is, the better the result.

 

All medical procedures carry some degree of risk. However, the Plasma Portrait has demonstrated an excellent safety profile in clinical studies. Compared with other light or ablative laser treatments, there have not been any protracted periods of downtime, scarring, loss of pigmentation, or prolonged increased pigmentation.   

 

Potential complications and risks are uncommon but include infection, decreased pigmentation, increased pigmentation (more common in darker skin types and sun exposure), and rarely ulceration and scarring. Increased pigmentation changes are usually temporary and should fade over time.

 

The risk of side effects and complications is increased in those with darker skin types, those who use self tanning products, those with sun tans or who spend time in the sun or solariums before or after treatment.

 

This treatment is not suitable for patients:

• Who are considered to be ineligible for general surgery
• Who form keloid scars
• With an active skin infection (including active viral herpes and acne)
• Who have used oral tretinoins such as Roaccutane, within 6 months prior to treatment
• With broken skin
• Who are pregnant or breast feeding
• Who have used self-tanning products or direct sun/solarium exposure within 1 week of treatment
• With dark skin types
• Who have any inflammatory condition of the skin

To minimise adverse reactions or prolonged recovery time, care should be taken in patients with the following: