Harmony AFT PhotoRejuvenation

 Harmony AFT PhotoRejuvenation

U Cosmetic uses the Harmony XL platform for AFT PhotoRejuvenation (Advanced Fluorescence Technology, the next generation of intense pulsed light). PhotoRejuvenation decreases brown spots and capillaries or redness on the face resulting in a rejuvenated complexion. Melasma may also be treated with light therapy. Melasma is a brown hyperpigmentation of the face and neck thought to be caused by excess estrogen, progesterone and melanocyte- stimulating hormone. It is a difficult symptom to control and while light therapy can improve the condition it can also cause it to worsen. Most individuals require 3 to 6 treatments to reduce flushing, broken capillaries and pigmentation on the skin. Every person is unique and although good results are expected, it is impossible to guarantee.

PhotoRejuvenation involves light being pulsed over the treatment area and feels like a mild rubber band snap. After the procedure, the skin is often pink. Before and after a treatment, you should strictly avoid tanning for 3 to 6 weeks.

Most individuals have uncomplicated treatments. Expected side effects can include a ‘sunburned’ feeling and ‘sunburned’ look lasting 1 to 2 days. There can be inadvertent hair loss on the face, at the hairline, brows, lashes, and/or nostrils. This is most often a temporary condition however it may be long lasting. Other uncommon side effects are pigmentation changes or bruising. If you are prone to cold sores, light-based treatment may trigger an episode. Rare and unexpected risks would include blisters, burns and scarring. Eye damage can occur if the protective glasses provided are not worn. The risk of side effects is increased by intentional or accidental sun exposure. There may be risks not yet known.

PhotoRejuvenation is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a light sensitive disorder such as porphyria or light-triggered seizures. Certain medications such as thiazides (for high blood pressure), antibiotics (such as tetracylines, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin or sulphonamides), sulfonylureas (used to treat diabetes), phenothiazines (used to treat certain emotional problems or induce sleep), Accutane, Gold therapy, St John’s Wort or Gingko Biloba may increase your risk of side effects.

Other options for treating redness and brown spots due to sun damage are skin care lines such as Obagi Nu-derm and Revaléskin anti-oxidant skin care, photodynamic therapy with Levulan and blue light can also treat pre-cancerous lesions called Actinic Keratosis. There may be other options not listed.

Our treatments are enhanced by a proper skincare regimen including good quality SPF. U Cosmetic has chosen a range of specific medical grade skincare products (Revaléskin, Pro-Derm, Déjà Vu, Obagi) that can prolong the results of many treatments.

Prior to procedure you should:

· avoid sun exposure, tanning bed and tanning products for 3 to 6 weeks prior to and after treatments. Tanned skin is at higher risk for experiencing side effects.

· start prophylactic anti-viral therapy if you have a history of cold sores prior to treatment.

· be off Accutane and Gold therapy for 6 months prior to treatment and St John’s Wort and Ginkgo Biloba for 4 weeks prior to treatment. These medications and others may cause photosensitivity.

· avoid skin irritants (Retin-A, glycolics, etc.) for 7 days before and after treatment.

· notify at consultation or at treatment if you have an up-coming social or important event.


The day of the procedure you will/may/should:

· appear red or pink and feel like you have a sunburn. This will usually subside within a few hours. Helpful treatment may include ice packs/cool compresses or Pro-Derm Hydrogel.

· apply Fucidin H if you develop a blister (not a cold sore). Do not pick, scratch or disturb blisters. This can lead to scarring.

· avoid sun expose for 48 to 72 hours because the skin is very sensitive and prone to burns. A wide brim hat with sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is strongly encouraged.


Day 2-14 post-procedure:

· Changes in the skin will become more noticeable (dark spots will get darker and red spots will get redder). Bruising or purple discoloration of your skin may occur.

· The darkened appearance will last 7 to 14 days. All red or brown spots in the treated area will be affected. This can include “beauty spots” such as freckles and moles.

· There can be inadvertent hair loss on the face, at the hairline, brows, lashes, and/or nostrils. This is most often temporary however it can be long-lasting.

· For best cosmetic result do not pick, scrub or pull scabs from your skin.

· Mild swelling is expected and rarely severe swelling can occur in some cases. This will subside in 2 to 4 days. Ice packs will decrease swelling.

· Use a mild, gentle cleanser such as Pro-Derm Gentle Cleanser or Revaléskin Facial Cleanser with cool, tepid water. Avoid cleansing with hot water, hot tubs or hot showers.

· Avoid skin products containing alphahydroxy acids, retinol etc. until redness and irritation are no longer present (approximately 3 days)

· Keep your skin hydrated with good quality SPF moisturizers. You may require additional moisturizing with Fucidin H cream, Pro-Derm Hydrogel or Regenerating cream.

· Contact the clinic at anytime if you have questions. We are here to help you and want your experience to be a pleasant one.


You will start to enjoy your new complexion within 2 weeks of your treatment!

For best results, at least 3 to 6 treatments with the Harmony AFT scheduled 4 weeks apart are recommended.