DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
High-energy flash lamp that emits non-coherent light (no laser!). Wavelengths between 515 and 1200 nm. Pulse duration between 2 and 25 ms. Light beams can be varied in wavelength, pulse duration and pulse sequence. This enables an individually adapted, non-invasive therapy.
IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.
ImplementationThis section has been translated automatically.
- Mechanism of action comparable to that of the pulsed dye laser with a significantly higher penetration depth. Hypothesis: The incoherent light causes selective thermal damage to certain structures (e.g. blood vessels, hair follicles). At the hair follicle the light is absorbed by the pigment-bearing follicle cells. The dark pigmented hair acts as a temperature conductor.
- Epilight (revised version of Photoderm VL): Variable setting of various parameters (wavelength, energy density, pulse duration, pulse sequence, etc.) according to skin type and skin color. This makes effective photoepilation possible. An advantage is the relatively large application area of 2.8 cm2 or 5.6 cm2, which makes it very quick to treat. The darker the hair, the more effective the procedure. The better light absorption capacity of dark hairs is achieved in light-haired patients by dyeing them beforehand. A hair length of about 1 to 2 mm is also very important for the success of the therapy, under no circumstances should the patient be freshly shaved.
Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.
Slight to moderate erythema for one to two days and, in the case of sensitive main types, occasional slight swelling and, in rare cases, crust formation. Hypopigmentation may occur in severely tanned patients or dark skin types (type IV and V according to Fitzpatrick), and hyperpigmentation may occur in patients exposed to strong sunlight after therapy or to high energy densities. These pigmentation disorders are temporary if the correct procedure is followed, but they often take months until they regress completely.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer