Icon 1540 nm Information Sheet
The Icon 1540 nm non-ablative, fractional resurfacing laser treats wrinkles, sun damage, and scarring by stimulating the production of new collagen. This laser fires hundreds of micro-beams of energy deep into the skin while also leaving healthy tissue to accelerate healing, which achieves dramatic results with minimal downtime. Optimal results can be seen in 3-6 months; however, improvements can be seen in as little as two weeks with skin appearing brighter and smoother. Each treatment plan is individualized and multiple treatments may be recommended.
We often recommend other treatments and products that will help maximize and maintain optimal results (i.e. Botox, Dysport, fillers, tretinoin, Clear + Brilliant, Exilis, facials, etc.). Please consult your provider to create an individualized care plan to achieve your unique goals.
What does the treatment feel like?
Topical anesthesia is applied to the skin one hour prior to treatment. Pain is minimal to moderate, and patients often say that the lasers feel like hot rubber bands snapping against the skin. To help alleviate discomfort, cold air is blown on the treatment area throughout the procedure. If needed, we use the PRO-NOXTM nitrous oxide sedation system, a self-administered, pneumatically driven gas system for the relief of pain and anxiety, making the procedure very tolerable.
What is my preparation for the treatment?
An in-office consultation with one of our physicians prior to scheduling the procedure is required. Unless otherwise directed, you may continue to use topical retinoids (e.g. tretinoin, Retin-A, Triluma, Melasma Quadruple Cream), antioxidants, and/or hydroquinone up to the day of your treatment. Patients must avoid sun exposure for at least three weeks prior to treatment. Patients with a history of cold sores may be given a prescription for an oral antiviral to prevent an outbreak. If you have a history of herpes/cold sores, we will want to start you on a treatment of 500mg twice daily of Valtrex starting the day before your procedure. Please call the office so we can prescribe the appropriate prescription if you need it.
What should I expect after my treatment?
Immediately following the procedure, the skin will feel warm and tight, as if sunburned. Some swelling may occur but should resolve within 48-72 hours. Redness will persist 4-7 days and the skin can feel rough for up to 2 weeks. Wait 3 days before strenuous exercise and avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks. Make sure to protect the skin with a zinc-based sunscreen (available at Modern Dermatology for purchase). Pain should be minimal. We will provide you with a post-procedure kit with instructions and products, which should last one week.
Are there any risks or possible side effects?
Discomfort is generally minimal and subsides after a short duration. Swelling is usually minimal and subsides in a few hours to a few days. Redness and skin tenderness may persist anywhere from a
few minutes to several days. Mild skin burns and blisters may occur, but are rare and unlikely. A flare-up of acne or formation of milia (tiny white bumps or small cysts) may occur. Herpes simplex virus (cold sore) eruption may occur in a treated area that has previously been infected with the virus. While extremely rare, scarring and discoloration can occur.
Are there any contraindications?
Fractional resurfacing is contraindicated for people who have a predisposition to keloid formation or excessive scarring. It is also contraindicated for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, for people who have takenAccutane in the past 1 month, and those with active cold sores. Areas with tattoos and open sores should not be treated and you should not be tanned before your appointment. Fractional resurfacing is also contraindicated for individuals with vitiligo.
Cancellation Policy
Modern Dermatology requires a credit card for scheduling of all aesthetic appointments (except Botox/Dysport/Jeuveau). We will remind you of your appointment 1 week prior in case you need to cancel or reschedule. Appointments broken without 48 business hours of notice will be charged a $250.00 cancellation fee for the time we reserved for you.