
Elevated Image & Primary Care
Elevated Image & Primary Care
The Endolift Laser
The Endolift laser typically uses a 1470 nm wavelength diode laser, which is specifically chosen for its high absorption by both water and fat in subcutaneous tissues. This wavelength allows for targeted delivery of energy to the dermis and subcutaneous fat, resulting in both fat emulsification and collagen remodeling, which are key mechanisms for skin tightening.
How 1470 nm Endolift Laser Tightens Skin:
• Selective Photothermolysis: The 1470 nm wavelength is efficiently absorbed by water in the dermal and subdermal layers, causing controlled heating of the tissue.
• Collagen Denaturation and Neocollagenesis: The thermal effect denatures existing collagen fibers, which then contract, leading to immediate skin tightening. Over the following weeks to months, the body’s wound healing response stimulates new collagen production (neocollagenesis), further improving skin firmness and elasticity.
• Fat Reduction: The same wavelength can also disrupt adipocyte membranes, leading to localized fat reduction, which enhances contour and further supports the tightening effect.
Clinical Evidence:
Studies using similar subdermal laser wavelengths (e.g., 1064 nm, 1320 nm, 1440 nm) have demonstrated significant skin tightening, with photographic and histological evidence of new collagen formation and surface area reduction. The 1470 nm wavelength used in Endolift is considered optimal for both safety and efficacy in skin tightening and contouring.
References:
McBean JC, Katz BE. "Laser Lipolysis: An Update." J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2011;4(7):25–34.
If you need more device-specific histological data or a comparison with other wavelengths, please specify.
Thulium Laser
In the dynamic landscape of dermatology and aesthetic treatments, various lasers are being employed to address a myriad of skin concerns. Thulium laser, a relatively newer addition to this repertoire, is steadily gaining prominence due to its versatility and efficacy. In this piece, we'll delve into the Thulium laser, understanding its mechanism, applications, benefits, and key considerations.
What is a Thulium Laser?
Thulium laser, operating at a 1927 nm wavelength, falls under the category of fractional lasers. This wavelength allows it to precisely target the upper dermis, making it particularly effective for treating surface-level skin issues and pigmentation.
How Does Thulium Laser Work?
The 1927 nm wavelength emitted by Thulium laser is absorbed predominantly by water in the skin. When this occurs, it creates controlled microthermal zones, promoting exfoliation of the superficial skin layers. This also stimulates the body's natural healing response, encouraging the production of collagen and newer skin cells.
The Thulium laser represents a significant stride in offering solutions that are both effective and minimally invasive. For those seeking to address surface skin concerns, particularly pigmentation, this laser offers a promising solution. As always, potential candidates should consult with a dermatologist or aesthetic specialist to discuss the appropriateness and expected outcomes of the procedure.
Mechanism of Action
The 1927 nm wavelength is highly absorbed by water, allowing for precise, controlled microthermal injury in the epidermis and upper dermis with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
This results in rapid recovery (minimal downtime), collagen stimulation, and epidermal renewal.
Fractional delivery means only a portion of the skin is treated per session, further reducing risk and downtime.
Key Cosmetic and Skin Uses:
-Melasma and Hyperpigmentation:
Demonstrated significant improvement in melasma with a favorable safety profile and minimal risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, even in patients with higher Fitzpatrick skin types.
-Acne and Acne Scarring:
The laser’s depth of penetration (≈400 µm) is sufficient to target sebaceous follicles and induce remodeling, making it effective for both active acne and mild atrophic scars. It also promotes mild collagenesis and overall skin texture improvement.
-Photodamage and Skin Rejuvenation:
Used for resurfacing photoaged skin, improving fine lines, actinic keratoses, and solar lentigines, with minimal downtime compared to ablative lasers.
-Hair Loss:
Shown to increase hair density and thickness in pattern hair loss, especially when combined with topical growth factors. The laser creates microchannels that enhance transdermal drug delivery.
-Enlarged Pores and Texture:
Reduces pore size and improves skin smoothness by stimulating superficial dermal remodeling.
-Superficial Scars:
Effective for mild atrophic and superficial scars, with a lower risk of pigmentary alteration than deeper or ablative lasers.
-Safety and Recovery:
Side effects are generally mild and transient: erythema, edema, and crusting resolve within days.
No significant risk of hypo- or hyperpigmentation reported in recent studies, even in Asian skin types.
References:
• Novel treatment of acne vulgaris using 1927 nm fractional thulium laser.
• Efficacy and safety for melasma
• Comparison with Er:YAG for acne scarring
• Hair restoration and transdermal delivery
• Imaging and tissue interactions, pigment disorders, photodamage, aging
If you need device-specific protocols or more details for a particular indication, please specify.
Thulium Laser 1927nm Indications
Melasma
Safe & effective; significant reduction in MASI scores after two sessions, minimal side effects.
Pigment Disorders
Treats various pigmentary conditions (e.g., dyschromia, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Photodamage & Aging
Improves actinic changes, solar lentiginesm skin texture, and tone.
Acne & Acne Scarring
Effective for active acne and mild atrophic acne scars; includes follicular remodeling and collagenesis.
Hair Restoration
Increases hair density and thickness in pattern hair loss; enhances transdermal delivery of growth factors.
Enlarged Pores
Reduces pore size and improves overall skin smoothness.
Superficial Scars
Improves mild atrophic and superficial scars via dermal remodeling.
Applications of Thulium Laser:
Pigmentation:
Thulium laser is especially effective in treating superficial pigmented lesions like sunspots, age spots, and freckles.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles:
By promoting collagen production, it aids in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, enhancing skin's overall texture.
Skin Rejuvenation:
This laser can be used for general skin rejuvenation, improving the skin's tone and brightness.
Actinic Keratosis:
Thulium laser has been utilized for the treatment of actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin condition.
Benefits of Thulium Laser:
Precision
The laser's ability to target the upper dermis allows for high precision, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Minimal Downtime
Post-procedure recovery is generally swift, with most individuals able to resume regular activities within a day or two.
Versatility
Apart from treating pigmentation, its applications range from skin rejuvenation to addressing textural issues.
Safe on Various Skin Tones
With appropriate settings and a trained operator, Thulium laser treatments can be safely performed on a range of skin tones.
Considerations:
Skin Redness
Post-treatment, there may be temporary redness and swelling, resembling a sunburn, which usually subsides within a few days.
Not for Deep Scarring
Thulium lasers target the superficial layers of the skin, making them less effective for deep scars.
Qualified Practitioner
Ensuring the procedure is conducted by a trained and experienced professional is paramount for safety and achieving desired results.
Sun Protection
Post-procedure, it's crucial to avoid direct sun exposure and diligently apply sunscreen to protect the treated area.
Undereye Treatment
What are PGFD Injections?
Platelet-derived growth factor (PGFD) injections are an advanced regenerative treatment designed to rejuvenate the delicate undereye area. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, PGFD helps improve skin texture, reduce hollowness, and minimize dark circles.How It Works:
Stimulates natural healing and cell regeneration.
Promotes collagen remodeling for firmer, smoother skin.
Improves blood flow and tissue quality under the eyes.
Benefits:
Reduces undereye hollowness and shadowing.
Improves fine lines and crepey texture.
Safe and minimally invasive with minimal downtime.
Considerations:
Best for patients with mild to moderate undereye concerns.
Temporary swelling or redness may occur post-treatment.
Multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal results.
Hair Loss
What is PRP Hair Therapy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy uses growth factors from your own blood to stimulate hair follicles, improving density, thickness, and overall hair health.How It Works:
A small blood sample is processed to concentrate platelets.
PRP is injected into thinning areas of the scalp.
Growth factors activate dormant follicles and improve circulation.
Benefits:
Increases hair density and thickness.
Enhances scalp health and slows hair thinning.
Natural, safe, and minimally invasive with no risk of rejection.
Considerations:
Works best in early to moderate hair loss.
Multiple sessions are often needed for lasting results.
Mild soreness at injection sites may occur.
Weight Loss
Treatment Options:
Medical Weight Loss Programs: Physician-guided nutrition, lifestyle, and exercise planning.
Prescription Medications (e.g., GLP-1 agonists): Support appetite control and metabolic improvement.
Vitamin Injections: Boost energy and support fat metabolism.
Benefits:
Safe, medically supervised approach.
Improves health outcomes like blood sugar and cholesterol.
Supports long-term sustainable weight management.
Considerations:
Results vary depending on patient commitment and adherence.
Best combined with lifestyle changes for lasting success.
Stubborn Fat Areas (Chin, Armpit, Abdominal/Suprapubic)
Treatment Options:
Endolift Laser / Lipolysis: Breaks down fat and tightens skin simultaneously.
Kybella Injections (Deoxycholic Acid): Dissolves fat cells in small areas (especially chin).
Non-Surgical Body Contouring (Radiofrequency or Cryolipolysis): Targets localized fat pockets.
Benefits:
Non-surgical or minimally invasive options.
Improves contour and body definition.
Permanent fat cell destruction (with Kybella or Endolift).
Considerations:
Mild swelling or bruising may occur.
Multiple sessions may be needed for larger areas.
Best for patients with healthy lifestyles seeking targeted fat reduction.
Loose Skin
Treatment Options:
Endolift Laser: Stimulates collagen and elastin remodeling for skin tightening.
Radiofrequency Microneedling: Improves skin firmness and texture.
PRP/PGFD Therapy: Enhances collagen regeneration in lax skin areas.
Benefits:
Non-surgical tightening with natural collagen stimulation.
Improves firmness, elasticity, and contour.
Minimal downtime compared to surgical procedures.
Considerations:
Works best for mild to moderate laxity.
May require combination treatments for optimal tightening.
Gradual improvements continue over weeks to months.
FAQs
Your Questions Answered
Cosmetic Laser FAQs
Acne Scar Treatment FAQs
Skin Tightening FAQs
Undereye Treatment FAQs
PRP for Hair Loss FAQs
Weight Loss FAQs
Stubborn Fat Areas (Chin, Armpit, Abdominal/Suprapubic) FAQs
Loose Skin FAQs

About Us
Dr. Joshua Hiep Le, DO
Elevated Image & Primary Care
4300 Talbot Road South, Suite 105, Renton, WA, 98055
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Contact: +1 206-395-4748 | +1 206-801-6843
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elevatedprimarycare316@gmail.com
Elevated Image & Primary Care
4300 Talbot Rd. S # 105 Renton, WA, 98055