Before you sit down in your dermatologist’s chair, you want to be 110% confident that you are making the best decision. After all, you don’t want to pay the for a procedure only to later find out that a different treatment would have been better suited for your needs. Or worse, that you thought your biggest worry was wrinkles but it turns out you have a bunch of age and sun spots clustering in one area. Not only should any trusted doctor sit with you to weigh all your options and give you his expert opinion on which treatments would offer you the best results, but new technology has been designed to help you make informed decisions on skin care.
Before getting a laser procedure of any other facial treatment at Gene Rubinstein, M.D.’s, office at the Dermatology and Laser Centre of Studio City, or even your local dermatologist, it is recommended that you first schedule a Visia skin analysis.
The Visia skin analysis system uses a multi-spectral imaging system to identify problem areas of your complexion. Visia’s technology captures a clear, multidimensional image of select facial areas in order to examine the severity of various age-related conditions. The test provides clinical measurement of surface and subsurface skin irregularities and pigment conditions. Specifically Visia skin analysis will be able to produce images that focus on specific areas of the face and compare them with the results of other people your age. These six regions include spots, wrinkles, pore size, texture, bacterial count, and UV damage.
Before undergoing the analysis, your doctor or nurse will likely ask you a series of questions or give you a form to fill out to help determine why you are experiencing some of your skin problems. These inquiries can range from family history questions to known allergies to your typical skincare regimen.
Once you get the images from the analysis, you and your doctor can discuss your results along with your concerns and goals to help you come up with a treatment plan that best addresses your most troublesome areas. The analysis results can also give insight into problems underneath your skin that may appear on your face in the upcoming months or years. Knowing that the problems exist can help you take preventative measures.
The Visia skin analysis is a painless procedure and can be done on anyone regardless of age, but is typically used on those experiencing skin problems. The analysis can also be used throughout the treatment process to help track results and draw attention to areas where more aggressive treatments might be needed.
The cost for a Visia skin analysis varies from office to office but is relatively cost-effective. It may even be offered at no cost to you as part of the consultation process as it is in Dr. Rubinstein’s office.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.