SmoothBeam Laser

Acne Scarring
Active Acne Treatment
Skin Renewal
How SmoothBeam Works

SmoothBeam is an advanced multi-effect non-ablative* laser treatment for acne scarring, active acne and collagen building. These quick and comfortable laser treatments are highly effective in reducing active acne and acne scars and reversing some of the collagen loss of aging. SmoothBeam stimulates the body's natural collagen-building process.

Acne Scarring - Improving and reducing acne scars.  

By triggering the production of new collagen, the SmoothBeam spurs the body to fill and soften acne scars "from the inside out" by lifting the depressions they cause with the new collagen base.

SmoothBeam is a totally non-invasive lasers. Non-invasive (non-ablative) lasers do not burn, cut or remove the skin surface. Instead, their action occurs underneath the outer layers of the skin. Because the laser works at a deep level, you won't experience any pain or peeling. By stimulating the collagen production in the dermis with the laser's thermal beam, scars are gradually filled in by your body's own collagen.

The SmoothBeam laser employs a revolutionary, patented process with DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device). This device first deep-cools the area of skin to be treated with a short blast of cryogen spray which protects the epidermis. This is instantly followed by the laser beam which targets the upper dermis. This combined cooling/heating process protects the outer layer of skin while allowing the heat to reprogram the collagen-building process within the deeper layers of your skin. The scars are then filled in from the "inside out" by the production of this new collagen. Multiple treatments are necessary to stimulate the collagen and minimize the acne scars.

Newer laser, especially the Fraxel laser systems, produce a more marked response, but do, depending on the level of treatment, produce redness and sometimes swelling. Still, the special nature of Fraxel makes it the leading laser in Acne Scar Reduction.

Additional Acne Scarring Treatments

Acne Scar Reduction
Photo Source: Candela Laser

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Active Acne Treatment - Improving active acne. 

Because the SmoothBeam actually alters the function of the oil-producing sebaceous glands, active acne is greatly reduced. This effect alone prevents the occurrence of future acne scarring. SmoothBeam is frequently used in combination with Vbeam laser treatments to remove redness from acne scars. In 2010 a new acne laser system came on the market and is making great strides in helping control acne. The Isolaz Acne Laser uses suction and bacteria-killing light to remove the "food source" for acne bacteria and kill the present p.acnes bacteria within and around the follicle. 

During clinical trials, 98% of patients sighted clearing of back acne lesions after 4 treatments, and did not show signs of reoccurrence for six month after the first treatment. Results may vary; you should discuss your expectations with Dr. Pilest. Several treatments may be required, depending on anatomical location and the extent of desired results.

Reduction of Active Acne and Acne Scarring
with SmoothBeam and Vbeam
Photo Source: Candela Laser

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Skin Renewal / Reducing fine wrinkles. 

Wrinkling is caused by loss of collagen and elastin in the skin. SmoothBeam's technology causes the body to reactivate production of collagen to areas that have lost their "fill" (wrinkles). This new collagen improves the skin's elastic capabilities and overall tone. Your face will feel firmer, smoother, and show fewer fine wrinkles.

Related Skin Renewal Procedures

Thermage
Photofacial
Chemical Peels

SilkPeel
Microdermabrasion

Understanding How SmoothBeam Works

SmoothBeam’s patented LASR™ (laser assisted skin renewal) process provides skin renewal by combining two unique elements: 

• A gentle laser pulse that stimulates the formation of new collagen just beneath the surface of your ski
• A proprietary Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that sprays the upper layers of your skin with a fine mist of cryogen prior to, during, and after the laser pulse, cooling and protecting the surface of your skin. Each pulse cycle of cooling and heating occurs within a second, making the process fast and comfortable.

Step 1 DCD first cools and protects the epidermis before the laser is fired. Automated DCD pulsing continuously cools and protects the epidermis during and after laser exposure.	Step 2 SmoothBeam's 1450 nm wavelength heats water and "damages" collagen in the upper dermis without affecting the epidermis, which is cooled and protected by the DCD
Step 2 continued DCD localizes heat deposition to the upper dermis, closer to the surface, for more visible results.	Step 2 continued SmoothBeam's extended laser pulse exposure provides gentle uniform heating of the dermis.
Step 3 The body's natural healing response initiates collagen remodeling and deposition of new, organized collagen
Illustration Source: Candela Laser

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How long does a SmoothBeam Laser treatment take?

One of the most exciting aspects of SmoothBeam technology is that it allows laser treatment in short “lunchtime” procedures. Treatments generally take 10 to 30 minutes. After your treatment, you can go right back to work or out to dinner without anyone knowing you’ve had treatment. Or, if you like, you can choose more aggressive treatment. The number of treatments and interval of treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition and the extent of the improvement desired.

What will the procedure itself be like?

You and the doctor will wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during the procedure. The doctor will use a small handpiece with a probe that touches your skin to deliver the laser light. You will feel the light spray of coolant onto your skin during each laser pulse.

Is there any pain involved in laser treatment with SmoothBeam?

Because the lasers dynamic cooling device is so effective, many patients report the procedure as "mild", with little more than a slight snapping or tingling sensation. Of course, pain is subjective, and topical anesthetics can be used, if you prefer.

How long before I see results?

Several treatments may be required, depending on anatomical location and the extent of desired results.

What precautions should be taken before and after treatment?

Avoid sun exposure for 4-6 weeks before treatment, and again after treatment until your physician allows it. Care should be taken in the first few days following treatments to avoid scrubbing or rinsing the treated area with abrasive skin cleansers.

Are there any side effects to treatment with SmoothBeam?

In general, most procedures have a low risk of side effects. More aggressive treatments might induce some temporary discoloration or reddening of the skin. Some patients might experience pigment changes in skin color. If this occurs, the skin will typically return to normal pigmentation over time.

*"Non-ablative" lasers do not burn, cut or remove the skin.

During your consultation, Dr. Pilest will be able to determine the best course of treatment for your skin condition. Contact us for an appointment.