While dermatologists have been in the know for a while now, the general public is now discovering the value of lasers as they increase in popularity, as well as diversity.
Lasers in general are powerful skin treatment tools, with the ability to do more than we could ever hope to manage on our own. They penetrate deeper into the skin and, depending on the laser type, can treat varying conditions.
You may be familiar with the Fraxel laser or maybe even Exion, but here, we’re diving into the Lumenis Stellar M22. It’s among one of the newest lasers we here at Apex Dermatology are now using to treat a wide range of skin woes. Here to walk us through the details of this laser is Dr. Cynthia Lavery Henry.
What is the Stellar M22 used for?
The Stellar M22 is special for a reason.
“It is so versatile—fine lines and wrinkles, skin tightening, hair removal, sun spots, dark spots, redness, blood vessels, and acne.”
It’s uncommon for a laser to treat so many needs, and to do so at a high level. Patients can expect range with this new laser offering, with a dermatologist to determine which function is best suited for your skin goals.
What are the results for the Lumenis Stellar M22?
While results vary from person to person, and of course depends on the type of treatment you’re seeking with the Stellar M22 laser, you will benefit with visible results.
“Common results are a decrease of fine lines and wrinkles, decreased hair, sun spots, dark spots, redness, blood vessels, and acne. More youthful, healthy skin.”
See some results for yourself!
What is the experience like?
Each qualified provider will determine the best setting and treatment during your consultation. From there, you will be given some instructions to prepare depending on what will be treated, including discontinuing use of retinoids prior to treatment and other notes to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
From there, “numbing cream may be applied depending on the modality used for the best results. For the IPL, a cool gel is applied to the treatment area. The procedure itself takes up to 15 minutes depending on the indication and size of the area being treated.”
What is the downtime for the Stellar M22?
“For IPL it is minimal, with only slight redness that can be covered with makeup immediately. After a few days, some peeling or darkening may occur. For Resurfx redness and swelling can occur. Patients may have mild discomfort, peeling, and redness for 5-7 days but can be easily covered with makeup after the first 24 hours post treatment.
Strict sun avoidance is necessary before and after treatments.”
For any other functions of the Lumenis Stellar M22 laser, your provider will give you clear care instructions so you’re prepared.
How many treatments are needed?
Ultimately, “It depends on what the patient’s goals are. In general, multiple treatments, done every 4-6 weeks are optimal.”
But for many of the modes of this laser, you will gain benefits for months following the treatment. The repeat-treatments are necessary for optimal results, like the ones you saw above.
Is there anything you recommend pairing with the laser treatment for best results?
“Botox and filler are great adjunctive treatments to pair with the Lumenis Stellar M22.”
You’ll most likely get recommendations for treatments that are not similar in nature to what you get with the Stellar M22 treatment. Instead, your provider will recommend accompanying treatments that will enhance both the laser’s results, and your overall goals for your skin.
Interested in a treatment with the Lumenis Stellar M22? Book your consultation here to determine your goals and which is best for you!
Dr. Henry is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at the Apex Dermatology Westlake office. Dr. Henry grew up in Medina, OH. From an early age she was influenced by her grandmother, an anesthesiologist who was one of only 4 women in medical school at her time. Dr. Henry observed how important and exciting her grandmother’s interaction with patients was, and the meaningful impact she had on their lives and knew that she would like to impact her community similarly.
After completing undergraduate and masters degrees from Boston University, Dr. Henry determined that her interests led her to a more hands-on application approach to health care. Early on during medical school, she fell in love with dermatology and was determined to go that route. She loves the direct patient care that includes both medical and procedural treatments and offers a diverse patient variety infants through adults.
During her residency in the Greater Detroit area, she saw a variety of cases from cosmetics to general dermatology, and everything in between, and became well practiced in treatments such as sclerotherapy for veins.
