Frequently Asked Questions

Botox is a neuromodulator that temporarily relaxes targeted facial muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial movement. It is commonly used to soften forehead lines, frown lines, crow's feet, bunny lines, chin dimpling, neck bands, jaw tension, and lip lines while maintaining natural expression. Read More

Typical treatment ranges include 10–20 units for forehead lines, 15–25 units for frown lines, and 6–15 units per side for crow's feet. Treatment plans are customized based on facial anatomy, muscle strength, and individual aesthetic goals. Read More

Modern Botox treatments are designed to preserve facial movement while softening wrinkles. At New Image Works, injectors use personalized dosing techniques to create refreshed, natural-looking results without stiffness or an overdone appearance. Read More

Preventative Botox is used before deep wrinkles fully develop. Many patients begin in their late 20s or early 30s to reduce repetitive muscle movement and slow the formation of deeper expression lines. Starting early often means less product is needed over time. Read More

Botox and Dysport are both neuromodulators used to soften dynamic wrinkles. They differ in formulation, onset time, diffusion pattern, and unit dosing. Your New Image Works provider will recommend the best option based on your anatomy and goals. Read More

Yes. Botox can effectively relax overactive masseter muscles associated with jaw clenching, grinding (bruxism), and TMJ-related discomfort. Many patients notice improvement in jaw tension, morning headaches, and facial soreness after masseter Botox treatment. Read More

Botox results typically last 3–4 months depending on metabolism, treatment area, dosage, and muscle strength. Consistent maintenance treatments often produce progressively longer-lasting results over time. Read More

Most patients begin noticing improvement within 3–5 days after treatment, with full results developing at approximately 10–14 days. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled if any touch-up is needed. Read More

After Botox, avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area, intense exercise, alcohol, and lying flat for at least 4 hours. Avoid excessive heat such as saunas and hot yoga for 24 hours. Following these guidelines helps ensure optimal placement and results. Read More.

Botox has been extensively studied and FDA-approved for cosmetic use. When administered by trained, licensed injectors using proper technique and individualized dosing, it is considered very safe with minimal risk. New Image Works providers are personally trained by founder Tatiana Alexeev, NP. Read More

Dermal fillers restore facial volume, smooth deep lines, enhance lips, define cheekbones, rejuvenate the under-eye area, and contour the jawline and chin. New Image Works uses premium hyaluronic acid fillers including Juvéderm and RHA, as well as Sculptra for long-term collagen stimulation. Read More

Botox relaxes muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by movement, while fillers add volume to smooth static lines and restore lost facial structure. The two are often combined for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Read More

Lip filler results typically last 6–12 months depending on the product used, metabolism, and the amount injected. New Image Works specializes in the proprietary 'Wanted Lips' technique, which creates natural-looking, proportionate lip enhancement. Read More

At New Image Works, natural appearance is the primary goal of every filler treatment. The clinic's signature 'Wanted Lips' technique is specifically designed to enhance the lips while maintaining full proportion and natural movement. Read More

Cheek filler results generally last 12–18 months or longer depending on the product used. Volumizing fillers like Juvéderm Voluma are designed for the midface and may maintain results for up to 2 years with optimal correction. Read More

Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulator that stimulates the body's own collagen production over time rather than adding immediate volume. Results develop gradually over 2–3 months and can last 2+ years. It is ideal for active patients, those with high metabolism, or those seeking long-term facial rejuvenation. Read More

Yes. Combining Botox with fillers, MOXI, HALO, BBL, or Sylfirm X is a common and effective approach to full facial rejuvenation. Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan addressing wrinkles, volume loss, skin texture, and tone together for optimal results. Read More

Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that dissolves fat cells under the chin (double chin) and in other small areas of unwanted facial fat. It permanently destroys targeted fat cells, reducing the need for surgical liposuction in mild-to-moderate cases. Read More

MOXI laser is a gentle, non-ablative fractional laser that improves skin tone, texture, pigmentation, sun damage, and early signs of aging with minimal downtime. It is ideal for skin maintenance and a radiant glow and is often combined with BBL for enhanced results. Read More

HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to address fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, texture irregularities, acne scarring, and overall skin rejuvenation with a manageable recovery period. Read More

BBL (BroadBand Light) is an advanced light-based treatment that targets redness, sun damage, pigmentation, acne discoloration, and uneven skin tone. BBL Hero delivers faster, more powerful treatments and has been shown to improve gene expression associated with younger-looking skin. Read More.

Sylfirm X is the most advanced RF microneedling technology available, able to selectively target abnormal blood vessels and tissue to treat pigmentation, vascular lesions, melasma, rosacea, and acne scars in addition to traditional skin tightening. Most patients see improvement after a single session. Read More

Fotona 4D is a non-invasive, non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatment using four laser passes to address skin laxity, surface texture, fine lines, and overall volume from the inside out. It also includes LipLase for lip enhancement and SmoothEye for the under-eye area. Read More

PDO (polydioxanone) threads are dissolvable sutures inserted beneath the skin to lift sagging tissue in the lower face, jowls, brows, and neck. They also stimulate collagen production for gradual skin tightening. Results are visible immediately and continue to improve, lasting 12–18 months. Read More

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are regenerative treatments using the patient's own blood plasma to stimulate collagen, improve skin quality, reduce fine lines, and support hair restoration. PRF is a newer generation with a higher concentration of growth factors. Read More.

Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. It improves skin texture, acne scars, pore size, fine lines, and overall skin quality. New Image Works offers advanced microneedling with customized treatment cocktails. Read More

CoolSculpting Elite is an FDA-cleared non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling (cryolipolysis) to permanently destroy unwanted fat cells in areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and under the chin. Treated fat cells are naturally eliminated by the body over 1–3 months. Read More

CoolTone uses magnetic muscle stimulation (MMS) to strengthen, tone, and firm muscles in the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. While CoolSculpting targets fat, CoolTone improves muscle definition. The two are often combined for comprehensive body contouring. Read More

Yes. New Image Works offers medically supervised weight loss programs using GLP-1 medications including semaglutide and tirzepatide, prescribed and monitored by licensed providers. The program is available at all three locations: Chicago, Glenview, and Miami/Aventura. Read More

Ozempic Face refers to facial volume loss that can occur with rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications. New Image Works offers specialized treatment plans using Sculptra to restore collagen and structure, often combined with hyaluronic acid fillers and PDO threads for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Read More

The Sculptra Butt Lift is a non-surgical alternative to surgical augmentation that uses Sculptra injections to gradually enhance volume, improve shape, and smooth cellulite in the buttocks area. Results develop over 2–3 months as collagen is stimulated and can last 2+ years. Read More.

Botox pricing depends on the treatment area, number of units needed, and desired outcome. New Image Works tailors every treatment plan to the individual, so costs vary. Pricing details and current specials are available during consultation or on the website. Read More

Lip filler pricing varies depending on the type of filler used, volume of product needed, and the complexity of the desired result. New Image Works provides transparent pricing during consultations. Read More

Cheek filler pricing depends on the degree of volume loss, filler product selected, and number of syringes needed. Pricing is discussed in detail at your consultation with a licensed provider. Read More

MOXI laser pricing depends on treatment area size, intensity settings, and whether it is combined with BBL or other treatments. Many patients choose package pricing for a series of sessions. Read More

HALO laser resurfacing pricing varies based on treatment depth, skin concerns, and treatment area. HALO is often customized per patient to balance downtime and desired results. Read More.

BBL pricing depends on the treatment area and number of sessions in your recommended plan. BBL is commonly combined with MOXI for comprehensive skin rejuvenation. Read More

Yes. New Image Works offers patient financing options to make treatments more accessible. Details are available at any location or through the Patient Financing page on the website. Read More

Yes. New Image Works participates in the Allē loyalty rewards program by Allergan, which earns points on qualifying Botox, Juvéderm, Sculptra, CoolSculpting, and other eligible treatments that can be redeemed toward future services. Read More

Appointments can be booked online through the New Image Works website, via the New Image Works app, or by calling your preferred location. Chicago: (312) 638-4979 | Glenview: (224) 432-5803 | Miami/Aventura: (786) 438-0778. Read More

Yes. In-person consultations are available at all three locations with a $100 deposit applied toward same-day or future treatment within one month. Virtual consultations are also available for $25. Providers evaluate your goals and create a personalized treatment plan. Read More

If receiving injections, stop supplements and NSAIDs if possible 7 days prior. For laser or peel treatments, avoid sun exposure and retinol products for 2 weeks before your visit. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete intake forms. Read More

New Image Works requests at least 48 hours notice for cancellations or reschedules to avoid forfeiting your consultation deposit. Please contact your location directly if you need to modify your appointment. Read More

New Image Works is led by founder Tatiana Alexeev, NP, a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner ranked in the Top 10 and Top 100 best aesthetic injectors in America multiple years running. All providers are fully licensed and personally trained by Tatiana to deliver consistent, natural-looking results. Read More

The Chicago location is in Old Town at 1348 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610. Phone: (312) 638-4979. Conveniently accessible from Lincoln Park, River North, Gold Coast, Streeterville, and surrounding neighborhoods. Read More

New Image Works in Old Town Chicago is known for personalized Botox treatments focused on facial balance and natural expression. The practice has been ranked Top 10 in the nation by Allergan and consistently recognized among the best aesthetic injectors in America. Read More

The Chicago location offers Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers, Sculptra, HALO laser, MOXI laser, BBL Hero, Sylfirm X RF microneedling, PDO threads, CoolSculpting Elite, CoolTone, chemical peels, microneedling, PRP/PRF, and medically supervised weight loss. Read More

New Image Works combines advanced technology, personalized consultations, and nationally recognized injector expertise. Led by Tatiana Alexeev, NP — Top 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in America — the Chicago practice is consistently rated among the top medical spas in the nation. Read More.

The Glenview location is at 3633 W Lake Avenue, Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60026. Phone: (224) 432-5803. Conveniently accessible from Northbrook, Wilmette, Evanston, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, and surrounding North Shore communities. Read More

New Image Works in Glenview, IL offers nationally recognized Botox treatments with providers personally trained by founder Tatiana Alexeev, NP. The Glenview location is ranked Top 10 in the nation by Allergan and serves patients throughout the North Shore suburbs. Read More

The Glenview medical spa offers a full menu including Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers, Sculptra, HALO laser, MOXI laser, BBL Hero, Sylfirm X RF microneedling, PDO threads, CoolSculpting Elite, CoolTone, chemical peels, microneedling, PRP/PRF, and medically supervised weight loss. Read More

The Glenview location delivers the same nationally ranked standard of care as New Image Works Chicago — with providers trained by Tatiana Alexeev, NP, Top 100 aesthetic injector — without requiring patients to travel into the city. Both Chicago and Glenview locations are ranked Top 10 in the nation by Allergan. Read More

New Image Works Glenview offers both HALO hybrid fractional laser resurfacing and MOXI non-ablative laser treatments. These advanced Sciton laser technologies serve patients from Northbrook, Wilmette, Highland Park, Deerfield, and surrounding North Shore areas. Read More

Sylfirm X RF microneedling is available at New Image Works Glenview, serving patients from Northbrook, Wilmette, Evanston, Glencoe, and Highland Park. Sylfirm X treats melasma, rosacea, acne scars, pigmentation, and skin laxity with minimal downtime. Read More

New Image Works Glenview offers dermal filler treatments including the proprietary 'Wanted Lips' technique, cheek contouring, jawline definition, and full facial balancing. All injectors are personally trained by Tatiana Alexeev, NP, and specialize in natural-looking results. Read More

CoolSculpting Elite is available at New Image Works Glenview for patients seeking non-surgical fat reduction near Northbrook, Wilmette, Evanston, and surrounding suburbs. Treatments target the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and under-chin areas. Read More

Yes. The Glenview location offers medically supervised weight loss programs using GLP-1 medications including semaglutide and tirzepatide, prescribed and monitored by licensed providers. The Glenview team also offers complementary body contouring for patients managing weight-related aesthetic concerns. Read More

Yes. In-person consultations are available at the Glenview location with a $100 deposit applied toward same-day or future treatment within one month. Virtual consultations are also available for $25. Call (224) 432-5803 or book online to schedule. Read More

The Miami location is in Aventura at 2920 NE 207th Street, Suite 1005, Aventura, FL 33180. Phone: (786) 438-0778. Located inside Aventura Park Square, serving patients from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbour, Surfside, Hallandale Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Read More

New Image Works in Aventura offers expert Botox treatments focused on natural expression and balanced facial aesthetics. All Miami providers are personally trained by founder Tatiana Alexeev, NP, serving patients from Aventura, Sunny Isles, Bal Harbour, and Miami. Read More

The Aventura location offers Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers (Juvéderm, RHA, Sculptra), PDO threads, HALO laser, MOXI laser, BBL Hero, Sylfirm X RF microneedling, Fotona 4D, LipLase, SmoothEye, PRP/PRF, CoolSculpting Elite, CoolTone, chemical peels, microneedling, and medically supervised weight loss. Read More

New Image Works brings nationally recognized injector expertise and a Top 10-ranked standard of care to its Aventura/Miami location. All providers are personally trained by Tatiana Alexeev, NP — Top 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in America — ensuring consistent, natural-looking results for South Florida patients. Read More

Yes. In-person consultations are available at the Aventura location with a $100 deposit applied toward treatment within one month. Virtual consultations are also available for $25. Call (786) 438-0778 or book online to schedule. Read More

New Image Works Aventura offers both HALO hybrid fractional laser resurfacing and MOXI non-ablative laser for skin rejuvenation, pigmentation, sun damage, and texture improvement. Serving patients from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbour, Hallandale, and Fort Lauderdale. Read More

Sylfirm X RF microneedling is available at New Image Works Aventura, particularly in demand for treating melasma, rosacea, sun-induced pigmentation, acne scars, and skin laxity — concerns common in South Florida's high-UV environment. Serving Aventura, Sunny Isles, Hallandale, and Miami. Read More

New Image Works Aventura offers dermal filler treatments including the proprietary 'Wanted Lips' lip technique, cheek contouring, jawline definition, under-eye rejuvenation, and full facial balancing with providers trained by Tatiana Alexeev, NP. Read More

Fotona 4D non-surgical laser rejuvenation is available at New Image Works Aventura. This four-pass laser treatment addresses skin laxity, fine lines, surface texture, and facial volume without surgery or downtime — a popular option for Miami patients seeking noticeable rejuvenation with minimal recovery. Read More

CoolSculpting Elite non-surgical fat reduction is available at New Image Works Aventura, serving patients from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Hallandale, Bal Harbour, and surrounding South Florida communities. Treatments target the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and under-chin areas. Read More.

Yes. The Aventura location offers medically supervised weight loss programs using GLP-1 medications including semaglutide and tirzepatide. For patients experiencing facial volume loss from GLP-1 medications, the Miami team also specializes in Sculptra and filler treatments to address Ozempic Face. Read More

Medical spa treatments at New Image Works are performed by licensed, fully trained providers using FDA-approved products and technologies. All providers are personally trained by Tatiana Alexeev, NP, and follow strict safety protocols to minimize risk and ensure the best outcomes. Read More.

Tatiana Alexeev, NP is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, founder of New Image Works, and creator of the 'Wanted Lips' technique. She has been recognized among the Top 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in America multiple years and has trained injectors internationally. All New Image Works providers are personally trained by Tatiana to her standards. Read More

Yes. Gift cards are available for purchase and make an ideal gift for any occasion. They can be used toward any service at any New Image Works location. Read More

Yes. New Image Works offers professional nurse injector training programs led by Tatiana Alexeev, NP. Training is available for licensed medical professionals looking to advance their aesthetic injection skills. Read More

Microneedling stimulates healing by causing a controlled injury to the skin. Upon first thought, it defies reason that hurting our skin can actually make it look better. But aesthetic medicine has proven this is actually the case. In fact, the medical aesthetic industry has been built on this premise.

The general rule of thumb is, the more invasive the treatment, the more dramatic the results. Case in point, if you get a facial – you will see a luminous glow for a few days afterward. But if you get a Microneedling treatment, you will keep that luminous glow for four to six weeks.

We have seen the trend move into household use with the dermaroller device. However, we must provide our clients with a big caveat. At the National Laser Institute Med Spa, we use a MicroPen. But the at-home treatment is done with a dermaroller. This type of device punctures your skin at an angle and the needles are only a third the length of a MicroPen. The problem with the dermaroller is the needles nick the skin as it is rolled. This creates less of a controlled injury and it actually can damage the skin. The at-home dermarollers also increase risk of infection.

Microneedling is known to naturally smooth, tighten and target aging areas of the face and body. Microneedling treats and prevents wrinkles, aging skin, surgical and hypertrophic scars, stretch marks, acne and pitted scars, sagging skin, hyperpigmentation, UV damage, Rosacea, and Melasma.

Treating skin conditions such as Melasma and Rosacea with Microneedling can be highly effective. If you suffer from either of these similar skin conditions, you already know there are very few ways to effectively treat your skin discoloration concerns. Microneedling combined with SkinMedica Lytera Skin Brightening Complex is the most effective in-office treatment we prescribe for our Melasma and Rosacea clients.

After your skin has received the Microneedling treatment, we will apply the SkinMedica Lytera Skin Brightening Complex to the treated skin on your face. This product contains skin brightening ingredients as well as Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, Essential fatty acids, retinol, and algae.

You will see an improvement in the overall condition of your skin, improved skin tone, and reduced discoloration of your skin.

Yes, this is absolutely true. Microneedling does boost product absorption and effectiveness by 3000% during the first hour after your treatment. This is why you will want to pair your Microneedling treatment with a booster like hyaluronic acid, PRP(Platelet Rich Plasma), or an anti-aging serum with growth factors.The channels created by the microneedles create a conduit for any substance you apply to your skin including hyaluronic acid, retinol, your own platelet rich plasma, and other anti-aging products.

First your face is thoroughly cleansed with a topical cleanser. Then a topical anesthetic is applied to your skin for 30 minutes before your treatment. When the treatment begins, a serum will be applied to your skin to help the MicroPen gently glide over your skin. The needling itself typically feels like a slight vibration, and almost like a massage with tingling on your skin. During the collagen induction process, the tiny needles in the MicroPen will penetrate through your skin, but will not remove it. Since your skin will only be punctured, it will heal quickly.

Your skin will lightly bleed but only for a few seconds. The mini-punctures will trigger the production of your very own growth factors that eventually result in collagen production. New collagen production can be further increased by the use of boosters such as PRP, hyaluronic acid, SkinMedica TNS Serum. You can expect your Microneedling treatment to take about one hour. Your skin will be red for less than an hour for darker skin tones and several days for lighter, more sensitive skin.

You should expect erythema and edema to the treated area. This will subside within a day or two. Tiny pinpoint scabs will appear 24-72 hours post-treatment and may remain 3-7 days following. The scabs should not be touched, itched or exfoliated. They will naturally shed off when ready. During the next 48 hours post-treatment, you should avoid working out, hot showers, massages, and sun exposure.

Do not apply makeup to your skin for 12 hours after treatment while your skin is healing. You may start applying emollient creams to alleviate any dry, tight or itchy sensations while your skin is healing. Do not shave for 1-2 days post treatment while your skin is healing. You should apply high-factor sunscreen (at least 30 SPF) and protect the treated area from sunlight. Sun exposure may cause hyperpigmentation.

We have younger Microneedling clients with acne scars and more mature Microneedling clients with sun damage and wrinkles. Microneedling results are naturally beautiful, and it’s also a chemical free treatment in which no foreign substances are injected. Your skin will become thicker. Collagen and elastin will increase up to 1000 percent. Any part of the body may be treated and Microneedling is safe for darker skin tones.

In other treatments involving ablative or heat methods, cicatricial healing is triggered, and type I collagen forms from the top down in the dermal layer. The major benefit of Microneedling is the growth factors released trigger regenerative healing. This type of healing is comprised of type III collagen forming from the base upwards in the dermal layer.

Microneedling will combat a variety of common skin care concerns, including scarring, stretch marks, melasma, and more. The results are smoother, thicker, tighter, more even-toned skin. The phases of collagen induction include:

1. Inflammation begins immediately during your treatment.
2. An Inflammatory Response will trigger tissue generation. Your very own natural growth factors will cause your body to produce healthy tissue.
3. New tissue Formation will continue for up to 1-year post treatment.

Treatments vary depending on skin conditions but we typically recommend between 3-6 sessions with 4-6 weeks in between sessions and then touch ups once or twice a year after that.

Intense Pulsed Light is a technology where light is converted into heat energy.
Treatments are like a very powerful camera flash lamp being held against your skin.
The selected light waves target chromophores (color pigments) such as melanin in brown spots and freckles; and such as hemoglobin in broken or diffused blood vessels. The light waves can also target specific protein molecules in acne bacteria and in collagen. IPL treats all conditions without disruption to the skin’s surface.

Lasers have been used in surgery for years. The IPL is an adaptation of the laser, more suited to the beauty industry. The biggest difference between laser and IPL, as far as treatment is concerned, is the coverage. The laser beam is very narrow, only covering a small spot at a time, while IPL coverage is several times the area, and therefore treatments are much quicker.

Lasers produce light from one specific wavelength, or color, for a very specific target. The light emitted from the IPL is composed of a spectrum of colors from different wavelengths, enabling selective photo-absorption (light absorption) to different targets. In other words, using the IPL is like using a group of lasers in a single treatment.

Intense Pulsed Light targets the color pigment (melanin) in the hairs. Therefore white hairs cannot be treated. Dark hairs on fair skin have the best and quickest results. Fair hairs will require extra treatments with lesser results. Caution is required when treating hairs on darker skins; this is explained below and would be discussed more fully during your consultation.

The hair growth cycle:
Hairs grow in constant cycles: Firstly hairs are actively growing, then they become dormant (resting), and finally they loosen and shed, only to be replaced by more new, actively growing hairs.
Only hair follicles in the active growth stage are disabled by IPL treatments.
Hairs in the dormant stage of the growth cycle normally remain anchored in the follicles for weeks or months, depending on their location, but their follicles and associated hair germination cells are not disabled by IPL treatments. These follicles will be treated in subsequent sessions. This is why you need repeated sessions. Hair growth becomes sparser with each session. All treated hairs should shed within about two weeks.

• Skin Tone and Re-texture
• Pigmentation
• Vascular Lesions
• Acne & Rosacea

Skin Rejuvenation is also known as photo-rejuvenation – the non-invasive, non surgical face lift.
The Intense Pulsed Light is absorbed by color particles which are present in blood and in melanin.
The IPL also treats the propioni-bacterium in acne and protein present in cells which produce collagen.

Pigmentation marks slowly come to the skin’s surface and are shed naturally.
Vascular lesions dissipate into the lymphatic system for excretion, just as bruises do.
Enlarged pores, minor pitting and scarring diminish and fade.
Fine lines and wrinkles are softened and may virtually disappear.
Collagen & elastin production increases.

• PERMANENT HAIR REDUCTION A course of 5 to 10 treatments is usually required to treat hairs at all stages of the hair growth cycle, at 3 to 6 week intervals; which varies depending on hair type and color, and the location being treated. Fair hairs will require extra treatments. White hairs cannot be treated.

A maintenance session may be necessary from time to time, due to the development of new hair growth appearing, as our hormonal balance continues to change with age, or due to the influence of stress, illness, disease and drugs i.e; steroids or contraceptive pills.

• SKIN REJUVENATION: It is difficult to predict the number of sessions required, as it depends on the nature of the lesions to be treated and their size, plus the client’s skin type, condition and color. Some conditions may require maintenance treatments from time to time. This will be discussed during your consultation. Different types of skin rejuvenation require different numbers of treatments.

The following is a guide only:

• VASCULAR LESIONS: Facial redness, broken capillaries, spider veins, etc 2 to 6 treatments usually recommended, at 2 to 6 week intervals.
• PIGMENTATION MARKS: Freckles, sun spots, flat birthmarks, etc, 2 to 8 treatments usually recommended, at 4 to 6 week intervals.
• ROSACEA AND ACNE: Results are profound, but these hormonal conditions may return. 2 to 6 treatments usually recommended, at 1 to 3 week intervals.

Some treatments have little or no sensation at all, but for other treatments, clients may feel a slight sting, similar to the flick of a rubber band against your skin. It is certainly not unbearable, and we can always reduce the intensity if you feel the need. Immediately after some treatments you may feel a mild heat for a few minutes, or a couple of hours, but after most treatments you will feel next to nothing at all.

Immediate Response:
In most cases there is no visible reaction and you would be expected to be able to return to work and resume your normal activities immediately after your appointment. However, IPL causes heat in the target tissues; therefore it is quite acceptable for the area to be slightly reddened immediately after treatment, but this would normally dissipate within half an hour. It is possible for the skin to appear slightly red for a couple of hours and up to 24 hours. If a reaction is visible after 48 hours it is imperative to contact your IPL operator for further advice. For those people concerned about wearing make-up immediately after treatment; provided there is no adverse reaction, (which is very rare), we can apply a mineral foundation to your face after your sun block. After hair removal treatments is also common to see a slight swelling at the mouth of each hair follicle, similar to goose bumps. This appearance should disappear within the same frame time as with reddening.

Sun exposure and tanning:
You can NOT be treated if you have had ultra violet (UV) exposure from the sun or sun beds within the past 4 to 6 weeks. Therefore prior to your treatments you must cover well with clothing and hats and sun block to prevent extra activity of the melanin cells in your skin. Melanin cells are responsible for tanning. Your tan slowly ‘wears off’ as those cells reach the surface of your skin in the normal skin- shedding activity, known as skin renewal. Fake tans stain the outer skin cells, and this color will intensify the IPL heat at the surface of the skin, therefore we cannot treat with IPL for at least two weeks after a fake tan application.

Waxing, plucking, threading:
For hair removal treatments, allow the hair to grow just a little, ( 2 mm is enough) immediately prior to your treatment day. Please refer to the ‘Hair removal treatments’sub-heading above. It is advisable to shave between appointments, as waxing or plucking would remove the hairs that we are hoping to target in your next session.

SHAVING DOES NOT CAUSE FUTURE HAIR GROWTH TO GROW MORE RAPIDLY OR TO BECOME COARSER. Only the actual shaved hairs will become coarser, but they will shed, and new growth will be normal.

Bleach or depilatory creams:
These products should not be used for at least one week before IPL treatments.
AHA Creams, Glycolic or Salicylic Peels:
These products should not be used for at least one week before IPL treatments.

For 24 hours after each IPL treatment:

• No sun exposure or UV exposure of sun beds
• Wear sun block with both UVA and UVB protection
• No depilatory, AHA, glycolic or salicylic creams
• No very hot baths or showers – tepid water only
• No heat treatments e.g. sauna
• No swimming in chlorinated pools or spa baths
• No deodorant – if underarms treated
• No perfumes, highly perfumed soaps or lotions, etc.

• Always wear a good sun block with both UVA and UVB protection
• Avoid excessive sun or UV exposure. Cover up and be sun-safe.

• Redness and swelling of the skin are normal. They are harmless effects which usually disappear within half an hour, but can occasionally be visible for two to thirty hours. Tightening of the skin can sometimes be felt for one or two days.
• In extreme cases blistering may occur, which heals in a few days. Cooling, healing gel or ice-packs should be applied frequently to alleviate discomfort. Treat this situation as you would for sun burn.
• Scabbing is possible after blistering. It is extremely important NOT to pick scabs off the skin, as they are protecting the underlying skin while it heals itself. If you pick a scab off, the healing process will stop and you could be left with little pock marks.
• If any signs of redness and swelling are still present after 48 hours of treatment, please contact the IPL operator for further advice. If your IPL operator cannot be contacted, a doctor, pharmacist or naturopath should be able to give you appropriate advice. In the mean time, treat as sun burn.
• Blanching or hyper-pigmentationwill only occur if strict guidelines regarding settings for the different skin types and colours have not been adhered to; OR if the client has not disclosed all contra-indications, medications. or the full extent of their sun or UV exposure during the month prior to treatment. Usually blanching or hyper-pigmented scars will heal and fade over weeks or months, but in extreme cases, especially on darker skins, they could be permanent.

• Light produced by laser and by IPL is absorbed by the color pigment, melanin, which is present in our hair and skin. Caution is required when treating people with dark skins, Asian skins and some other skins which tan very easily. Hyper-pigmentation or blanching of the skin is likely to occur if there is too much melanin present in the skin. It is possible to treat medium to medium/dark skins on a low intensity.The consultation process and a test patch, will determine whether each individual can be treated. Strict guidelines must be adhered to, when treating darker skinned people, using only low levels of intensity at each session, and therefore more treatments will be needed to achieve a result. Skins such as Negroid, Melanesian and some darker Indian skins are not treatable – for both skin rejuvenation and for hair removal. Electrolysis is an option for these people, but it too, must be administered with caution, on a low intensity, due to the possibility of hyperpigmentation or blanching.