IAL System - Mesotherapy for Skin Rejuvenation
What is mesotherapy?
Developed in the 1950's by the Frenchman Dr Michel Pistor, it was originally used to treat conditions such as rheumatism, joint injuries and improvement of blood circulation. Mesotherapy is now used in the cosmetic field for skin rejuvenation, improving skin texture and reducing fine lines. It is commonly practiced in France, where it is taught in Medical school and is recognised as a speciality of medicine by the French National Academy of Medicine.
What is the ageing process?
As we age, the skin loses collagen, fat and hyaluronic acid. This causes the skin to sag and develop lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid plays a vital part in maintaining youthful skin keeps the skin firm and elastic. It deeply moisturises the skin, promotes collagen production which improves skin tone and revitalises it. It also acts as an anti-oxidant and protects the skin from damaging free-radical molecules. This all slows down the ageing process and promotes good quality skin.
How does the IAL system work?
The revolutionary IAL system is a long-term medical-cosmetic treatment. The IAL system is a long-term treatment to hydrate and improve the skin quality. Benefits are seen after weeks not days. It is a non-animal based hyaluronic acid based gel which is injected into the skin via a very fine needle. Using a criss-cross pattern of small injections (the matrix technique) the IAL system can smoothly distribute itself across a large area of skin.
Where can it be used?
- Forehead / Brow lines - difficult and deep forehead and nasal lines can be pre-treated with the IAL system to enhance the effects of further treatments such as Botox© or dermal fillers, rather like applying a good foundation base before your makeup.
- Eyes / Mouth - using a series of small injections, fine lines around the mouth and eyes can be improved.
- Face / Neck/ Décolleté / Backs of the Hands - using a micropuncture technique, damaged skin in these areas can be revitalised.
What happens during the consultation and treatment?
At the initial consultation your doctor will take a full medical history and examine your skin. Special emphasis is placed on your reasons for wanting mesotherapy, which particular skin problems you are concerned about, and your expectations from the treatment. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions. At Icon Cosmetic Clinic we believe in an open and honest approach and if we feel that this treatment is not suitable for you we will discuss this with you and offer appropriate alternatives. You will then be asked to sign a consent form.
Treatment can be started immediately if you wish. We believe photographs are essential before starting treatment so that 'before and after' comparisons can be seen.
Micro-injections are given in a series of lines, in a grid pattern, penetrating the skin by no more than 4mm. If you find this uncomfortable an anaesthetic cream can be applied first, though generally this is not needed. Treatments take up to 30 minutes each time.
How many treatments do I need?
This will be discussed at the initial consultation. Initially you may need one treatment every 2 weeks for 1-2 months then monthly for 3 months, then maintenance treatments every 3-6 months. On average most people need 6 initial treatments then maintenance treatments once or twice a year.
Are there any side effects and can anyone have mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is very safe, you may get some mild bruising at the injection site, and this will fade after 12-36hrs. Very rarely some patients have had an allergic reaction to the products used.
Anyone can have mesotherapy, except pregnant women and people taking warfarin. If you take aspirin or clopidogrel regularly it is wise to stop these 2-3 days prior to treatment to minimise bruising. If you are using retinoid creams (retinova) please stop these 3-4 days before treatment. It is also advisable to delay any laser or electrolysis treatments for a week after mesotherapy. Men may wish to avoid shaving on the day of treatment.
Glycolic acid peels
Cosmetic dermatologists are now combining a regime of mesotherapy with a glycolic skin peel which further improves skin texture by exfoliating the skin too. This is not the same as a deep chemical skin peel, which is a very abrasive process. Firstly the skin is cleansed and a pre-peel solution applied. Then the glycolic peel solution is painted onto the face like a mask and left on for 1 minute the cleansed off. The glycolic peel works by changing the skin acidity, making it more acid, therefore sloughing off dead surface skin cells. This treatment can be used alone or followed by a mesotherapy treatment. The glycolic peel can cause a slightly uncomfortable burning sensation and the skin may be slightly red afterwards, this will settle quickly, but there is no skin peeling as associated with chemical peels. It leaves the skin feeling amazingly soft and smooth.
We have a comprehensive price list you can check before you contact us.
Contact us to discuss IAl skin repair or other skin rejuvenation treatments, or to book a consultation.