Complexion Correction
We chat to Katie Parobek, clinic director and founder of The Well clinic about their Complexion Correction treatment
Consulting Room: Can you explain the role of melanocytes in skin pigmentation and how their impairment leads to hyperpigmentation?
Katie Parobek: Melanocytes are specialised cells that produce melanin pigments responsible for skin, hair, and eye pigmentation. When exposed to sunlight, the melanocytes produce increased amounts of the pigment melanin, causing the skin to darken or tan. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin, most often caused by an abnormally high amount of the skin pigment melanin.
CR: How does melanin protect the skin from UV radiation?
KP: Melanin absorbs the dangerous UV rays that can do serious skin damage. This is the process that gives you a tan. A tan is, in fact, a sign that your skin is trying to keep UV rays from damaging your skin.
CR: What inspired The Well to develop the Complexion Correction treatment?
KP: We are inspired by the newest developments in technology, as well as identifying our clients’ needs. When we notice a trend or pattern in clients presenting to us, this very much drives and informs us with regard to the development of treatments that are most useful to achieve goals.
CR: How does the AgeJET system differ from other skin rejuvenation technologies on the market?
KP: AgeJET works in the deeper layers of the skin, as opposed to more traditional laser treatments, which work superficially. Heating the skin’s deeper layers makes the treatments much more effective in targeting pigmentation, scarring, acne, and skin tightening. It is unique as it can treat a wide range of skin types and conditions.
CR: Can you elaborate on how nitrogen plasma technology works to regenerate skin tissue?/What physiological responses are triggered by this treatment, and how do they contribute to skin healing and rejuvenation?
KP: AgeJET plasma device uses medical grade nitrogen gas to deeply penetrate the skin and stimulate tissues in targeted areas. This process creates a thermal injury deep within the skin to allow new cells to regenerate, whilst also protecting the outer layers of skin. After treatment, the outer layer of skin sheds to reveal a new layer of revitalised and refreshed skin with improved laxity and texture.
CR: Can you discuss the safety measures in place to ensure the treatment is effective yet gentle on the skin?
KP: All advanced treatments are preceded by a consultation to ensure the right treatment is chosen within a patient’s treatment planning. Consultations consider medical history, including medications, other ongoing treatments, etc. With this treatment specifically, a patch test is done on the day of the treatment to determine the settings to be used for treatment. All patients are provided with pre-care instructions to allow them to prepare for treatment and are assessed on the day to ensure treatment can safely proceed. Post-care instructions are discussed and provided in writing.
CR: What kind of improvements can patients expect to see in their skin tone and texture post-treatment?
KP: Typical results include reduced wrinkles and fine lines, reduced pigmentation, lifted and tightened skin, reduced eyelid drooping, reduced pore size, and improved tone and texture.
CR: How long does it typically take to see optimal results, and how long do these results last?
KP: Everyone is different, and treatment plans are customised to suit each patients’ individual needs. Typically, on average a course of 3 monthly sessions is recommended for best results, and maintenance sessions may be required. Results last for 6-18 months – this is very much determined by how the skin Is looked after during and after treatment.
CR: How is the energy level customised for different treatment areas and skin types?
KP: The AgeJET device has adjustable settings that we select based on a variety of factors, including what we are treating and skin type.
CR: Are there any specific post-treatment care instructions that patients should follow to maximise results?
KP: Yes, we have specific instructions both to prepare the skin for treatment, and how to care for it after treatment. The main thing to remember is to boost hydration levels in the skin before treatment, and to use a gentle cleanser, and use only a light moisturiser after treatment. And of course, no picking or peeling the skin!
CR: What sets this treatment apart from other minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedures available today?
KP: Unlike many skin rejuvenation therapies, the AgeJET targets the deeper layers of the skin rather than focusing on the skin surface. This results in much longer-lasting and more visible results than devices which only target the surface. The plasma created with the nitrogen gas preserves the skin’s outer layer while new skin layers form. This takes place over the ten days following treatment, and noticeable improvements to the surface of the skin appear much quicker than with other skin therapies.