IPL, Lasers, and more: Choosing the right device for skin rejuvenation treatments

Understanding Facial Rejuvenation: What skin concerns does facial rejuvenation treat?

Facial rejuvenation might seem like a confusing term, but it simply covers a spectrum of concerns. These cosmetic treatments are designed to refresh and restore the skin’s healthy glow. During a facial rejuvenation treatment, any or all of the following may be addressed:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Irregular skin tone and texture
• Brown spots or hyperpigmentation
• Enlarged pores
• Acne and acne scars
• Dry or dehydrated skin

A variety of methods are used, depending on each patient’s unique needs. If your patients aspire to have radiant, youthful skin, there’s a rejuvenation treatment to achieve their aesthetic goals – and an energy-based device to make it happen. Let’s explore the top options for skin rejuvenation treatments – and the devices that are used for each one.

1. Radiofrequency Devices: Non-invasive doesn’t mean ineffective

Radiofrequency (RF) has become quite the buzzword in medical aesthetics. As a non-surgical, non-invasive solution to various facial concerns, these rejuvenation treatments are rising in popularity, and that trend is expected to continue. Clients love the instantly visible tightening effect – skin is immediately bouncier and firmer. And because RF devices often have adjustable skin depths and intensity levels, practitioners can provide perfectly-calibrated rejuvenation treatments.

The pros of RF:

• Quick, in-office procedure: Fast for you and your patients
• Minimal side effects and no downtime
• Suitable for most skin types
• One of the most highly-touted skin tightening treatments

The cons of RF:

• Multiple treatments may be required
• Occasionally, some patients report mild discomfort during treatment
• Effectiveness can vary
• Not suitable for pregnant women, pacemaker users, or those with certain medical conditions
• Depending on your location, advanced qualifications may be needed to operate RF devices

2. Microneedling Devices: A Route to Real Results

Already a game-changer for many aesthetic professionals, this remarkable device uses tiny needles to spark the skin’s natural healing response within the dermis, revealing firmer, smoother skin. In addition to its general rejuvenation benefits, microneedling is especially effective against scars and stretchmarks. For many practices, it’s an indispensable device – especially when paired with other modalities (like RF).

What’s great about microneedling devices:

• Reduces visible signs of aging (lines, acne scarring, pigmentation) and improves skin texture – common concerns for many patient demographics
• Generally safe for all skin types
• Enhanced results when paired with other modalities (such as RF microneedling)
• The treatments require minimal downtime compared to more aggressive options; appeals to a large market
• Skin is improved over time (when treatment plan is followed)

What’s not so great about microneedling devices:

• Multiple sessions may be cost prohibitive to some patients
• Some potential for side effects, such as mild redness after microneedling treatments – not every patient will be able to accommodate the aftercare precautions
• Requires continuous purchase of needles; it’s important to factor that cost into your investment
• Microneedling devices equipped with other modalities may require additional training and qualification for use

3. Multi-modality facial devices: Cosmetic multitaskers for acne, aging, and more

These devices often feature dermabrasion or peel handpieces as well as other complexion-enhancing modalities. Our MediSpa, for example, is equipped with seven popular rejuvenation modalities that can be applied separately or step-by-step for a 360-degree facial. While the results may not be as long lasting as other rejuvenation methods, these treatments target a full list of skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and uneven texture – and often deliver instant results. They’re suitable for all skin types, and can be combined with other facial treatments. These procedures are often priced more affordably than other options, allowing practitioners to attract a different audience and a more consistent revenue stream.

Why does your practice need a facial device?

• Tailored treatments are an expectation now – not a one-size-fits-all approach. Devices like MediSpa can be used to customize and target specific skin issues.
• Safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin
• Non-invasive and generally painless procedure
• Can be marketed as part of an overall wellness routine; an integral part of self-care
• Can be incorporated with other skin treatments for enhanced results

Facial Devices: A few things to keep in mind

• Because multiple sessions are recommended, some clients may opt for more proactive options with longer-lasting results
• Some devices may be equipped with modalities that require additional training
• Facial devices typically use several kinds of consumables – a cost you’ll want to consider when you’re reviewing your budget
• May not be as effective for deep-set wrinkles and severe acne scars – it’s important to establish expectations around these rejuvenation treatments
• These treatments come with a higher price tag than traditional facials; clients who are used to conventional treatments may be apprehensive about graduating to an energy-based option

4. IPL Devices: Not lazy, not a laser.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) devices are a versatile alternative to laser modalities for skin rejuvenation treatment. Their wavelength, pulse duration, and lower concentrations of light allows for a broader scope of applications, which is why IPLs are the workhorse of any skin clinic. They target aging, acne, and even hair removal for certain skin types. And because IPL technology is long-established, practitioners and patients feel confident that it can safely deliver the results they want. It’s easy to see why IPL devices are a complete skincare solution for many aesthetic professionals.

Why choose an IPL device:

• Versatility is value: IPL devices are great for a breadth of treatments: Hyperpigmentation, photoaging, freckles, acne, and even unwanted hair in some skin types
• Generally an affordable procedure – a great addition to your service menu if you offer higher-priced treatments
• Because its light is less concentrated, IPLs can pose lower risk of complication compared to lasers (when operated properly by a trained professional)
• Quick, non-invasive treatments mean faster sessions for you and no downtime for your patients

Why you might skip the IPL investment:

• Generally speaking, multiple appointments are required. It’s helpful to offer booking packages for IPL treatments
• Because it’s not a laser, its capabilities are not as precise. That means the results may not be as dramatic compared to laser-based modalities
• Depending on the indication, IPL treatments are not necessarily a fit for every skin type
• Some practitioners believe IPLs have been surpassed by newer energy-based technologies

5. Nd: Yag laser devices: Much more than tattoo removal

The Nd:YAG laser offers a unique path to facial rejuvenation. While it offers the advantages of laser procedures, it comes without the risks and recovery period of ablative lasers. Yag devices like our MediYag spare the epidermis while effectively heating the targeted pigment within the dermal tissue.

Why you’ll say yes to the Yag

• The technology is well-established in dermatology with reliable results – especially when it comes to tattoo ink removal
• One device, many applications: Hyperpigmentation, veins, vascular lesions, rejuvenation, tattoos, and even hair removal treatment is possible for some skin types
• Chromophore targeting allows for precision treatments
• Excellent for body treatments

Nd: Yag devices: Possible downsides

• As is the case for many of these devices, several treatments may be needed for optimal results – not always appealing for some patients
• Mild risk of side effects. It’s important to receive thorough training before operating this device, and patient compliance is crucial
• Larger footprint – Yag devices sometimes take up more space than other aesthetic devices
• Some patients report discomfort during treatment
• Some treatments may not suit all skin types

6. Ablative Lasers: CO2 laser skin resurfacing for a total reboot

Ablative laser treatments are the last word in renewed skin. By targeting the top layer of skin (the epidermis), resurfacing devices deliver a full facial reboot – something many other technologies cannot do. Practitioners and patients alike love resurfacing procedures because they effectively treat a wide range of skin concerns, and the devices can typically be configured to treat varying degrees of severity. 

The MediCO by Medicreations uses a carbon dioxide laser and comes equipped with ablative and non-ablative settings, giving practitioners the ability to perform less invasive treatments that require less downtime. For patients, the prospect of CO2 resurfacing may be daunting, but for some, it’s a great fit – and the advantages are clear: Fully renewed skin with collagen production kicked into high gear.

What’s great about CO2 laser devices:

• Broad appeal: Fills out fine wrinkles, evens out tone and texture, and it’s a great solution for sagging skin (loss of laxity)
• Capable of rejuvenating darker skin tones
• Treats acne scars and sun damage
• A compelling alternative to chemical peels
• Long-term results may appear after one treatment
• Many devices are equipped with fractional technology, which contributes to faster healing

The cons of CO2 laser devices:

• Multiple treatments may be needed – patients might be apprehensive about the price of multiple appointments
• Downtime could last 7-10 days, and aftercare is required
• Specialized treatment that requires special care to minimize the risk of complications
• Variable pigmentation in darker skin tones could occur

How to choose the right facial rejuvenation device for your skincare business

With so many laser types and ground-breaking technologies on the market, it can be difficult to determine which aesthetic device is best for your practice. Here are several factors to consider while you’re making your decision.

Bear in mind: Your budget

It may seem obvious, but this is a key consideration overlooked by many aesthetic professionals. Start with a realistic budget, and be sure to include any possible consumables over time as you plan your investment. You’ll also want to anticipate the possibility of repair prices, depending on the manufacturer’s warranty.

Consider all qualifications

Depending on your state and the kind of business you operate, certain certifications may be required to operate energy-based aesthetic equipment. Review all legal requirements while you research new devices. We love AmSpa as a resource for legal guidelines – plus, they offer many other tools that can help your business.

Who is your audience?

You have many skin rejuvenation options, so narrow the list of potential devices by assessing your market. Some questions you may want to ask include:

• Who are your typical patients?
• Is there an audience you’re trying to reach?
• What is their budget?
• What are your competitors doing to attract these audiences?

What else can the device do?

To maximize value, look for devices that offer multiple applications – like the IPL, for example. This is especially useful for new practitioners who need to stretch their budget as effectively as possible.

Make sure you know the manufacturer

Many practitioners try to save on their investment by buying used equipment or purchasing devices from dubious sources. There are numerous reasons why this approach could backfire: Safety, unverifiable authenticity, etc. But purchasing new devices from a manufacturer you recognize ensures reliable repair service when you need it. And if you choose a company like Medicreations, you can have the added confidence of a 2-year warranty – no risk of lost business while you search for someone to perform your repairs.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Device Decision

Facial rejuvenation isn’t going anywhere – people will always want a treatment that gives them an overall glow. Think about the modalities we discussed and the considerations we’ve listed, and you’ll find the right solution for your skincare business.

If you ever need any guidance, schedule a consultation call with one of our specialists: We’ll help you find the right device for your needs.