What Is Laser Genesis?
Laser Genesis is performed with the Cutera Excel V+ system. During treatment, the handpiece is moved across the skin in a controlled pattern to deliver consistent energy across the selected area.
This treatment is usually done as a series of sessions because changes build over time. Sessions are typically spaced 4 weeks apart, whether the 1064nm or 532nm setting is used. At the consultation, the number of sessions, the time between them, and what to expect are explained.
1064nm And 532nm: What’s The Difference?
The Cutera Excel V+ platform allows Laser Genesis to be delivered using two different wavelengths, which are often used for different goals.
1064nm Laser Genesis
The 1064nm setting is commonly used for general skin quality concerns, including collagen support and fine lines, and it can also be used when texture and visible pores are part of the concern. This option is often considered across a wide range of skin types, which can be important for patients who have a history of pigment changes.
532nm Option
The 532nm setting is more focused on redness and mild pigmentation in suitable cases. This option is generally more appropriate for fairer skin types, depending on assessment, because shorter wavelengths can carry a higher risk of pigment change in some skin tones.
A consultation is important because the safest setting depends on your skin tone, recent sun exposure, and how your skin has responded to treatments in the past.
Concerns Laser Genesis May Be Used To Address
Laser Genesis may be discussed for concerns such as:
- Facial redness
- Visible pores
- Acne scarring and PIE (post-inflammatory erythema)
- Changes in skin texture
- Fine lines
- Mild pigmentation concerns (where appropriate for the skin type and setting used)
- Redness associated with scarring on other parts of the body, such as a hypertrophic or keloid scar that has flattened but remains red, with or without telangiectasia (spider veins), or redness along a surgical incision scar.
If you have active irritation, active infection, or a recent flare of a skin condition in the treatment area, treatment may need to be delayed until the skin has settled. Recent sun exposure can also affect suitability, so it’s helpful to mention this at the consultation.
Medicare Eligibility Laser Genesis treatment for redness of the face and/or neck area may attract a Medicare rebate. Eligibility is assessed during the initial medical consultation with Dr Omarjee to determine whether the concern meets the relevant Medicare item number criteria. Where eligible, this allows for up to 4 Medicare-rebatable laser treatments within a 12-month period from the date of the first treatment.
What Laser Genesis May Feel Like
A warming sensation is common during Laser Genesis, and tolerance varies between individuals. If the heat feels too strong, settings can be adjusted during the session.
If you’ve had strong reactions to heat-based treatments before, or you have sensitive skin, bring this up at the consultation so it can be considered in the treatment plan.
Treatment Course
The number of sessions depends on your skin, the concern being addressed, and how your skin responds over time. A course of sessions may be recommended, and the time between sessions is discussed at the consultation.
Progress is reviewed at follow-up appointments. The plan may be adjusted based on how your skin responds and any changes in your skin condition or routine.
Risks And Considerations
Laser Genesis is a medical-grade laser treatment, and it carries risks. Possible side effects can include redness, swelling, irritation, blistering, burns, and pigment changes, with risk influenced by skin type, recent sun exposure, and treatment settings.
There are also situations where treatment may need to be delayed, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, active skin infection, or active inflammation in the treatment area. If you have a history of cold sores, mention this before treatment so appropriate planning can be discussed.
FAQs
Can Laser Genesis be used on areas other than the face?
Laser Genesis may be used on areas such as the neck and chest in some cases. The treatment area is confirmed at consultation based on your skin and the concern being assessed.
Is Laser Genesis suitable if I have melasma or pigment concerns?
If you have melasma or a history of pigment change, this needs careful assessment before laser treatment. The consultation is used to review your pigment history and decide whether Laser Genesis is suitable or whether another option is safer.
Can I have Laser Genesis if I use active skincare products?
Some active ingredients may need to be paused before and after treatment to reduce irritation. The clinic can advise what to stop and when to restart based on your skincare routine.
Can Laser Genesis be combined with other treatments?
It may be combined with other treatments as part of a broader plan, but timing matters. The sequence and spacing are decided based on your skin history and how your skin responds.
What should I avoid before Laser Genesis?
Recent sun exposure and active irritation in the treatment area can increase the chance of unwanted skin reactions. If you’ve had sun exposure, a skin flare, or a recent procedure in the same area, mention it before treatment.
Does Laser Genesis help with acne scarring and visible pores?
It may be considered for acne scarring and visible pores where texture is part of the concern. The expected change depends on scar type, skin thickness, and whether other treatments are recommended alongside it.
Is Laser Genesis suitable for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin can still be assessed for suitability, but history matters. The consultation reviews triggers and past reactions so settings and timing can be adjusted if treatment proceeds.
Is Laser Genesis covered by Medicare?
Treatment for facial and/or neck redness may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, subject to assessment at the initial consultation. If the concern meets the relevant Medicare item number criteria, up to 4 rebatable treatments may be covered within a 12-month period from the first treatment date.
