Dr Platon Cold Plasma Therapy
Plasma is a form of matter just like liquid, gas and solids. Plasma is created when an ionized gas mixes with electrostatic energy which can be artificially generated via devices like Dr Platon.
Heating a neutral gas or subjecting it to a strong electromagnetic field produces plasma. Some initial attempt to use plasma to help wound healing can be found as far back as World War II, but not research was conducted to understand how plasma interacts with biological cells until the mid-1990s.
Dr Platon ionises atmospheric gases, mainly oxygen and nitrogen to create atmospheric, cold (non-thermal) plasma. Cold plasma is partly ionized and reaches temperature of 35-40°C so it is safe to touch, causes no pain, discomfort and does not have an ablation effect so there is no down time. Thermal plasma is nearly fully ionized and therefore would reach much higher temperatures.
This makes cold plasma a suitable treatment for younger patients with acne. At London & Surrey Aesthetics we treat patents who are 14 years an over with this particular treatment, as long as there is parental consent and the parent is present during treatment.
Cost of treatment:
- Course of 6 treatments £410
- Course of 8 treatments £530
- Course of 10 treatments £610
- Maintenance treatments £75
Main indications for cold plasma treatment
- Reducing hyperpigmentation
- Reducing inflammation and any related blemishes
- Suppresses acne and balances sebum production
- Decreases symptoms of eczema, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and seborrhoea
- Anti-ageing
- Improves absorption of active substances in the skin by around 24%.
Effects of cold plasma
Acne – it is very effective at destroying the P. acnes bacteria, reduces skin inflammation, soothes the skin and prevent acne recurring by balancing sebum production.
Problematic & irritated skin: the cold plasma has an antioxidant impact on the skin’s immune system. It reduces the damaging effect of chronic skin disease such as eczema, dermatitis, rosacea and seborrhoea. These skin condition manifest with inflamed, irritated dehydrated and rough skin.
Sterilization: the cold plasma temporarily disrupts the cellular adhesion molecules, accelerates self destruction mechanisms of skin cells and causes cellular division. The damage caused to DNA actually creates a disinfection process resulting in destruction of bacteria, fungi and inflammatory or other damaged cells. This process also raises the level of free intracellular oxygen.
Skin regeneration & Anti-aging: because cold plasma triggers the division of basal cells it stimulates epidermal regeneration, boosts production of new collagen, stimulates the formation of new blood vessels and assists in would healing. It strengthens skin immunity and epidermal barrier and improves intercellular communication.
Depigmenting: atomic oxygen in the atmospheric plasma, oxygenates the melanin in the epidermis and therefore lightens epidermal brown spots (whether from hormonal pigmentation, sun damage or age spots). This process is especially effective when pigmentation has occurred due to an inflammatory process. By reducing the inflammation, the plasma can also reduce the level of haemoglobin around the spot and reducing the appearance of the blemish.
Boosts absorption: research shows that plasma increases epidermal permeability in the first 12 yours after remanet by around 24%. Therefore, many facial for all skin types can incorporate a Dr Platon plasma treatment to boost results and improve absorption of ingredients.
How many sessions do I need and how long does it last?
The number of sessions required is very much dependent on the extent of skin issues you are having. For example, a person who has significant acne which has not responded to other methods of treatment, may require upwards of 10 treatments to see a good benefit. Others who have mild eczema or rosacea who are managing relatively well with skincare, may only require 6 sessions. Ultimately as with many different skin treatments, one or two sessions will not be enough, and this is a longer-term commitment of treatment. Once the skin is improved it can be maintained with skin care products and regular top ups of cold plasma for example every 1-2 months. The actual procedure itself only takes around 15 minutes with minimal down time.
Who can have treatment?
Anyone with the problem skin issues mentioned above. It is important to commit to a course of treatment as this is not going to work in one session as with many skin treatments. Treatments are best spaced 1 week apart, however having them every 2 weeks will still be effective but may take longer to see effects. Those who do not have any of the medical conditions listed below.
Who should not have treatment?
The following is a list of conditions where this treatment should be avoided:
- An electronic device, such as a pacemaker
- Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Epileptic patients
- Patients with unstable heart conditions
- Those with unstable insulin-dependent diabetes
- Patients with haemophilia or coagulation disorders (except thrombophilia)
- Patients with AIDS, manifesting as facial lesions
- Patients with ALS
- Patients with cancer or those who have been in remission for less than 5 years
- Patients with unstable hypertension
- Those who are acutely unwell with body temperature above 38°C
- Patients who have used AHAs or retinol in the past week
- Those who are taking steroids or have taken steroid within the past 2 weeks
- Patients with active herpes
- Those who are on Roaccutane or who stopped less than 6 months ago.
There are other conditions which may require a note from your doctor or consultant. These can be discussed with you when you have your consultation.
Possible side effects of Cold Plasma
Generally, the Dr Platon is a safe treatment. Cold plasma can temporarily increase the photosensitivity of skin, so it is very important to apply sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30 after each treatment and during the treatment course. Plasma also temporarily increases epidermal permeability and therefore it is important that after care advice is followed so that harsh products are not applied post treatment as this can cause reactions (See below)
Aftercare following cold plasma treatment.
Following treatment your skin will continue to absorb anything hat is applied for up to 12 hours. It is therefore VERY important that nothing is applied to the skin for 12 hours unless approved by your practitioner.
Do NOT apply any topical skincare containing alcohol to the area. Clean with water only. Do not use any cleansing products unless they have no perfume, no colourings, and are very gentle.
Do NOT apply any type of AHA, retinol or exfoliation products for at least 12 hours post treatment as this can irritate the skin.
No makeup should be worn after treatment for 12 hours.
Apply sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30 after each treatment and during the treatment course.
Do NOT participate in activities that may cause excessive sweating for 12 hours after treatment, such as exercise.
Do NOT expose the skin to extreme temperatures such as intensive sunlight, saunas, sunbeds, or steam rooms for 12 hours.
Avoid electrolysis, waxing, bleaching, depilatory creams, laser hair removal or dermaplaning for at least 72 hours.
Do not swim in chlorinated water for 12 hours.
If there is a history of cold sores (herpes) in the treatment area, then prophylactic use of antiviral creams or oral antivirals is recommended pre and post-treatment.
Please report any concerns or issues to your practitioners as soon as possible.
It is important to have regular follow-ups with your practitioner to chart progress and ensure the treatment is having the desired effect.
Enquire about this treatment
If you require additional information about this treatment, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Client Reviews