CURAS is a new generation Q-switched Laser that offers ReGenesis modes along with MLA (Multi-Lens Array) along with special multiple pulse modes. This assists in the tailoring of treatments to target specific skin problems more effectively with reduced risk.
These advances increase our ability to tailor your CURAS treatment to address a greater range of skin concerns, balanced by your desired downtime.
What is it and how does it work?
Q-switched means a laser pulse measured in nanoseconds (10-9 seconds) which works using acoustic or sound energy (rather than heat). This was developed to target pigment (including melanin and tattoos). Different wavelengths are utilized to target different types of pigment along with different locations or depth in the skin. The rapid delivery of energy in very short pulses causes a photomechanical effect that shatters the pigment particles and the cells containing pigment. These shattered tiny fragments are then either shed off the skin surface or are removed by the body’s repair and clearance processes. Over time, the targeted pigmentation fades or disappears and a more even skin tone is seen.
You’ll often hear a popping or crackling sound as the laser interacts with your skin. This is normal and expected. You may also smell the plasma produced (this is like the smell that is produced by lightning storms).
Although developed to treat pigment lesions, CURAS also has beneficial effects on the skin’s surface and collagen layers. This is called Q-switched laser toning which has been further enhanced by the ‘fractionated’ MLA handpiece. This produces a grid of numerous high energy pinpoint spots which can target both the surface skin and deeper down to produce new collagen and elastin resulting in skin remodelling. This is utilized to rejuvenate plus to treat and target problem skin areas such as acne scars or deeper wrinkles.
Indications
CURAS is one of our work horses for effectively treating many pigmented skin lesions. This includes:
- Pigment lesion removal including Age Spots
- Freckles
- Solar Lentigo
- And some birthmarks and Nevi (nevus of Ota, Ito and Hori’s Nevus)
The Q-switched laser toning in combination with the MLA Handpiece which fractionates the beam. This can be used for treating:
- Aging Skin
- Sun Damaged Skin
- Photorejuvenation (improves skin tone, texture, enlarged pores plus fine lines)
- Acne scarring (mild)
CURAS / Q-switched lasers are also useful for treating other skin pigment concerns including:
- Iron stains (after an iron infusion that has tissued)
- Melasma
- Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
What is Laser Genesis? (CURAS 1064nm)
This laser treatment uses low-level laser light utilizing a vascular laser to help boost collagen, reduce redness and treat textural changes including fine wrinkles and enlarged pores.
Similar to laser toning, laser genesis has a low amount of associated downtime but requires multiple treatment sessions.
Laser Genesis (ReGenesis) Indications include:
- Stimulates Collagen
- Wrinkle prevention
- Reduce Redness including that associated with Rosacea
- Reduce Flushing & Blushing
Laser Genesis is often used in combination with other energy-based treatments including laser toning and as a regular preventive anti-aging skin maintenance treatment.
What is involved? What is the Downtime?
You will usually be offered or asked to apply an anaesthetic cream to reduce discomfort. Thorough cleaning and preparing of your skin are then required (all make up which contains pigment needs to be thoroughly removed).
The sensation experienced during CURAS treatment varies between individuals. A quick, snapping sensation or a rubber band being snapped against the skin may be felt when pigment lesions are targeted. With toning and particularly fractionated or MLA toning it may feel like sand being blown on your skin. Some feel mild stinging or prickling.
CURAS allows for many minimal downtime treatments, however stronger treatments and treatment modes with potentially greater benefits are associated with a down time of several days. Stronger treatments are used for example to target problem skin areas such as acne scars or deeper wrinkles. This can result in skin redness, swelling and pinpoint skin bleeds.
With ReGenesis and Laser Toning there is minimal downtime. For the treatment of Pigment Lesions and Birthmarks, stronger settings are required, and lesions can take 7 or more days to peel off or for your skin to settle.
How many treatments?
This varies with indication. Generally 3 treatments will be recommended for photo rejuvenation and pigment lesion treatments.
Treatments are generally performed 4-8 weekly.
Does everyone respond?
Pigment lesions and pigment skin conditions can be challenging to treat. There are often multiple different types of pigmented skin lesions and not all respond equally (freckles and lentigo respond best and often do well with only a single treatment session). Multiple treatments are usually required for best results.
Although CURAS is used to treat melasma and PIH these conditions are notoriously recurrent and any treatment for PIH can occasionally cause or worsen the condition.
When do I see benefits and do benefits vary?
These vary on the condition being treated. Many changes are noticeable immediately after the treatment session. It takes weeks to see the full benefits after a single treatment and for many conditions multiple treatments are required and individuals can respond differently.
What are the risks?
Skin damage or skin burns resulting in blistering and scarring.
Post-treatment pigmentation changes can also occur, these are usually temporary but occasionally permanent hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). The risks are higher for darker skin tones and in sun tanned individuals. See PicoWay laser which is a potentially safer treatment option in those with darker skin types.
There is also a small risk of infection or reactivation of the cold sore virus.
It is important that you have your treatment performed by a qualified health professional able to assess your skin, skin problem and expert in laser use (including appropriate treatment settings and close monitoring of your skin’s treatment response).
Schedule an appointment with our experienced team of cosmetic dermatology nurses, dermal assistant and/or dermatologist to see if this treatment is right for you, your skin condition, the risks associated and your needs.
