What Is Elos™ Technology?

Elos™ technology, based on the principle of selective photothermolysis, uses light impulses of the right wavelength and duration for destroying specific targets (chromophores), in synergy with electric energy: Electro Optical Synergy.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) used in Elos™ technology enables us to apply several wavelengths in order to reach, with great precision, different chromophores (targets) at varying depths. Thus the skin and neighbouring structures are preserved.

To maximize optical energy and the energy available for in-depth targets, the electrical energy of the bipolar radiofrequency's spectre will be combined, which will also be selectively absorbed by the target.

What Is Its Effect on the Skin's Texture?

To improve the skin's texture and elasticity, you need to stimulate the regeneration of new collagen fibres as well as the restructuring of the existing fibres.

To do so, all that needs to be done is to create thermal lesions at the level of dermal collagen fibres and thereby trigger the natural restorative and regeneration processes. With Elos™ technology this is achieved while protecting the skin's surface (the skin is not bared).

This technique closes the dilated pores, smoothes the skin, smoothes out the fine lines and enhances skin tightness.

What Can We Treat with Photorejuvenation?

Several cosmetic problems of the face's and body's skin can benefit from this type of treatment:

1. Abnormalities of the vascular bed, such as erythrosis , telangiectasia, angiomas, rosacea, sudden and transitory redness . These conditions can be improved on average from 50% to 75% .
2. Brown pigmentary abnormalities related to melamine, such as melasma, chloasma, sun spots (ephilides, lentigines (freckles), keratoses); age spots can be improved on average from 50% to 75%.
3. Sun lesions on the back of the hands and the neck (poikiloderma) can also be improved between 50% and 75%.
4. Fine lines, skin thinning and loss of elasticity can-thanks to the synergy of intense pulsed light applied simultaneously with powerful bipolar radiofrequency-be improved by up to 60%, and without the convalescence stage.

What Are the Benefits of Photorejuvenation?

The main benefit of this technique is that it is not necessary to provide special care after the treatment or to take time off from work or other daily activities .

Another important plus with this treatment is the concurrent improvement of different abnormalities: vascular (redness), pigmentary (brown spots), cutaneous (texture, elasticity, fine lines, pores).

What Can I Expect from Photorejuvenation?

The treatment is carried out in several stages. The improvement degree is gradual and progressive; it will continue through the months following the last step due to the biological processes of tissue restoration that can take up to 5 to 6 months.

The programme usually involves 5 to 7 sessions of Elos™ every 3 weeks depending on the damage to be treated. Some lesions will require only one session. To potentiate and maximize the penetration of Elos™ treatments, preparation of the skin may be recommended by the specialist (e.g. hydroquinone, peelings , microdermabrasion , etc.).

Treatment takes place in a medical clinic under the supervision of a physician. The skin of the region to be treated is covered with a gel that optimizes light transmission, then cooled with compressed cold air in order to prevent the trauma and removal of the epidermodermal surface.

Lasting from 30 to 45 minutes, this particular treatment is mild and requires little care afterwards. Patients can put on their make-up and resume their activities as soon as the treatment is over.

Is This the Solution for Me?

Elos™ can be performed on a wide variety of skins and for different cutaneous lesions. Nevertheless, some medications, illnesses or skin and health conditions (e.g. pregnancy, wearing a pacemaker, etc.) represent contraindications. That's why a prior medical evaluation is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Photorejuvenation

Can there be undesirable effects?
The energies converged by Elos™ (radiofrequency and intense pulsed light) are both often used in a wide array of medical and cosmetic procedures; their safety has been duly established .

Side effects are inexistent in most cases. Short-term local redness in the surrounding skin, sometimes accompanied by a light oedema, is normal, as well as a slight discomfort or the possible and temporary feeling of heat and tingling.

Temporary intensification of the pigmentary lesions can be expected but this will be followed by a clearing up.

Exceptionally (on more sensitive skins or skin with photosensitization for instance) the formation of crusts or phlyctenae (blisters) can occur on the surface, as well as dyschromia (pigmentary discolouration), usually of a temporary nature, very seldom prolonged, and caused by a lesion of the dermis.

How long will the benefits of photorejuvenation last?
The photorejuvenation programme provides notable and consistent improvements; most patients are quite satisfied with the results. Since we cannot stop the time clock or exposure to light and its effects, patients who wish to maintain the benefits of their programme can opt for a simple maintenance session at the recommended 4-month interval.

What are the precautions and care to take after a photorejuvenation session?
When there are no immediate related effects (redness, swelling) patients can, as a rule, put their make-up back on right after the treatment and return to work.

Here are a few suggestions of immediate care:

1. Apply cold packs if necessary.
2. Cleanse the skin with a mild agent.
3. Use lukewarm water (not hot water).
4. Apply a non-irritating moisturizer.
5. Use SPF 45 sunscreens.
6. Avoid suntanning and wear a hat.

During the first 24 hours, you must avoid using hot water on the treated areas. Use lukewarm water to gently cleanse yourself and avoid scrubbing the treated areas. Sponge dry the skin.

It is important to properly moisturize the skin, day and night, with a lotion appropriate for your condition. Do not use exfoliative cosmetics or vitamin A medications without the prior approval of your physician. They can cause irritation and compromise or delay the expected results.

We can suggest efficient sunscreens against ultraviolet A-B-C rays as well as a skin care programme customized for your particular treatment.

Photorejuvenation now is a safe, mild and rewarding technique. It resolves many skin abnormalities, does not require downtime nor special care.

For More Information on Photorejuvenation

Discuss this technique with Dr. Élise Bernier. She will answer your questions and review your objectives in the area of skin rejuvenation. She is qualified for evaluating your situation and determining if this treatment is suitable.