Fine lines, wrinkles, photodamage, and acne scars can all be frustrating aesthetic issues that don’t respond to at-home skincare products. At MacMed Spa Salon & Medical in Milford, MA, we know a restorative treatment like NeoGen can remodel collagen to reduce visible signs of aging: even on areas of the face that are sensitive or delicate.
NeoGen Plasma Treatment
The NeoGen treatment uses the power of plasma to regenerate your skin. The plasma for this treatment is produced by combining high-frequency radiofrequency energy with nitrogen gas. The intensity of the plasma treatment can be customized to suit the needs of your skin.
The plasma emitted by this treatment technology provides a uniform exposure to energy that can target sub-dermal tissue without disturbing the upper layer of the skin. Because of the uniformity of plasma energy, your skin will produce a more even layer of new collagen and elastin stores to restore the texture of your skin.
Benefits
There are several unique benefits to using a plasma treatment. Unlike other energy-based treatments, this plasma treatment is gentle enough to be used on the sensitive periorbital eye region to reduce visible fine lines and wrinkles. Much of the time, energy-based treatments are too intense to be used on the eye area, but this plasma treatment can easily address issues like drooping eyelids, dark circles, and crow’s feet.
This treatment can also be used to regenerate the surface of the skin. A plasma micropeel can turn over new skin cells to remove textural irregularities and pigmentation concerns, while also stimulating collagen production that smooths away wrinkles. This treatment is frequently used to address other aesthetic issues such as:
- Enlarged pores
- Stretch marks
- Pre-cancerous lesions
- Acne scarring
- Sun damage
- Dull complexion
- Surgical scars
- Post-acne hyperpigmentation
Treatments
You will likely need several treatments to achieve your desired results. To address superficial concerns such as age spots or sun damage, you may need four to six treatments; for deeper wrinkles and scars, you may require additional treatments. The number of treatments you need can be determined during a consultation after a skin exam to assess the severity of your skin condition.
Treatment appointments are generally short. Before your treatment begins, a topical numbing cream will be applied to your skin so you are comfortable for the duration of your treatment. Depending on the number of areas you want to treat, your appointment can take about 30 to 60 minutes.
Preparation
To prepare for any energy-based treatment, it’s a good idea to follow preparation guidelines such as temporarily discontinuing retinol and other chemical exfoliants. You may be encouraged to stop using certain herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications for a few days before your treatment. On the day of your appointment, be sure to remove all body and facial jewelry, wear your hair away from your face, and wear loose clothing.
Aftercare
After your treatment, you will need to avoid direct unprotected exposure to the sun for several weeks. It’s best to use a high-strength SPF to shield your skin, wear hats, and wear light layers, particularly during the summer. You may also be directed to stop using retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and other active skincare ingredients for at least a week after your treatment.
Ideally, the aftercare for your skin should focus on gentle moisturizing. Products containing soothing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, vitamin E, and niacinamide are all good options to soothe and hydrate your skin after your treatment. You should use a gentle soap and lukewarm water to cleanse your skin.
Results
The results of this treatment last for about 12 months or sometimes longer. The longevity of your results can be attributed to the new collagen and elastin produced by the plasma treatment. Some patients may experience results that last for two to three years.
In patients who have healthy skin, fresh collagen can last for several months before a touch-up appointment needs to be scheduled. To maintain your results, you may need to schedule an annual treatment at least once a year. There are other things you can do to maintain your results for as long as possible, such as:
At-home skincare is one of the best ways to maintain a youthful, glowing, and healthy complexion. Brands like Obagi have several medical-grade products that are formulated to improve the appearance of maturing skin as well as manage issues such as acne and hyperpigmentation. If you aren’t sure which Obagi products are right for you, we can give you product recommendations so you can build an effective skincare routine.
You should continue to wear SPF 50 even after your skin has recovered from the plasma treatment. Unprotected exposure to the sun can lead to issues such as age spots, sun damage, and fine lines. If you are using products that cause sun sensitivity, it’s especially important to be vigilant about your sun care so you do not develop additional hyperpigmentation concerns.
Leading a healthy lifestyle can have a great impact on your skin. Whether you are concerned about acne or aging, getting enough sleep every night and drinking enough water is essential for maintaining your skin health. Some lifestyle habits, such as smoking, can accelerate aging and slow down skin healing.
Candidates
Patients who are ideal for this treatment are those who have relatively healthy skin, those who are in good general health, and those who are not currently pregnant. This aesthetic treatment is ideal for patients who have light to medium complexions and who want to restore the overall appearance of their skin. Men and women can both use this treatment.
Refine Your Skin With Plasma Treatments
From the delicate area around the eyes to stubborn sun damage, plasma treatments can effectively address your aesthetic concerns with very little downtime. The NeoGen treatment is right for most patients and can produce results that last for a year or more.