The laser can feel like a quick rubber band snap against the skin. Depending on the procedure, a cooled treatment tip is kept in contact with the skin for protection and comfort, and a topical anaesthetic may be available from your provider. Most people can wear makeup and return to normal activities straight away.

Small red blood vessels, redness and rosacea-related flushing are commonly addressed over about three to four sessions, though some concerns respond within one to two treatments. The number of sessions depends on your condition and its severity, and is planned with your provider at consultation. Vessels that have been treated and cleared do not tend to reappear, but new vessels can emerge over time, so a maintenance treatment approximately once a year may be considered. Results vary between individuals.

A consultation determines your suitability. This treatment may not be appropriate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have used certain prescription acne medications in the past six months, take anticoagulant medication, or have undergone gold therapy. Caution applies for people with vitiligo, a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, or open wounds. Treatment is avoided over tattoos, permanent makeup, metal or electronic implants, and suspicious pigmented lesions, and is not performed if you are being treated for skin cancer. A minimum distance is kept from pacemakers and defibrillators.