What is ReLume?
ReLume Phototherapy is a painless, non-invasive, light-based cosmetic procedure that provides selective pigment restoration used to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, surgical scars, acne scars, cosmetic surgery scars, traumatic scars, burns and areas of hypopigmentation resulting from chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing.
How does ReLume work?
ReLume works by delivering intense light to the treatment area. This light is absorbed through the upper layers of the skin and activates the underlying melanocytes, which encourages increased melanin production in the treatment area.
What areas of the body does ReLume treat?
ReLume can be used on any part of the body where hypopigmented skin is located. Areas that are prone to stretch marks, such as the abdomen, lower back, breasts, upper arms, thighs and buttocks, are all common treatment areas, as are any areas of the body with hypopigmented scars.
Who is a candidate for ReLume?
Most patients who are in general good health are good candidates for ReLume. The best candidates are those who have shallow, light, newer stretch marks and scars; however, most patients with burns or areas of hypopigmentation are also good candidates for this procedure. To determine your candidacy for receiving optimal results from ReLume, consult with a provider in your area.
How is ReLume performed?
ReLume treatments are performed in an office or medspa setting on an outpatient basis. The treatment is painless and non-invasive, and typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. The procedure involves a provider using a handheld device to deliver intense light to the treatment area.
What is the recovery like?
There is no downtime or recovery period associated with receiving a ReLume treatment. Patients are able to immediately return to work or regular activities, with many scheduling treatment sessions during their lunch breaks. While there is no required post-treatment care, patients will be advised to avoid sun exposure for 24 to 48 hours after each session and to use sunscreen on an ongoing basis.
What will the results be like?
ReLume results will vary between patients and may or may not be immediately noticeable. In most cases, optimal results will be achieved gradually with results becoming progressively more noticeable throughout the series of treatment sessions. Patients will generally see the best results when treating shallow or newer scars and stretch marks, as opposed to deeper or older stretch marks and scars. Most patients require a series of six to 20 weekly or biweekly treatment sessions to achieve full results.
What are the risks?
ReLume is a non-invasive, painless procedure that has no known associated risks. Patients do not report pain or discomfort during the procedure and redness is the most common reported side effect. Other side effects that are possible include swelling, itchiness and blistering, all of which can be expected to subside within days of each treatment session.
Is ReLume approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes, ReLume is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of stretch marks, scars and areas of skin that have experienced pigmentation loss.
Is ReLume covered by insurance companies?
Most medical insurance companies do not provide coverage for procedures that are not considered medically necessary, such as cosmetic treatments. Consulting with your insurance carrier is the best way to determine if ReLume treatments will be covered. For procedures that are not covered by insurance, there are several payment options available, such as in-house financing offered by some cosmetic surgery providers, and external lending companies that specifically provide loan programs to meet the needs of patients who need or want medical or cosmetic procedures that are not covered by insurance.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: February 4, 2010
