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New FDA Approvals, Treating Acne Scars and More

November 2011

This ongoing series examines recent news and updates about laser and light therapies. This month's edition covers the recent announcement by Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, that they have received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction, a new study reveals that a combination laser approach is effective for the treatment of acne scars and more.

Solta Announces FDA approval of Second Generation LipoSonix For Non-Invasive Waist Circumference Reduction

Solta Medical, Inc., recently announced that Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, has received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, specifically indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction. The LipoSonix system delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) energy that can disrupt subcutaneous adipose tissue and provide a non-invasive approach to achieve a desired aesthetic effect.

The LipoSonix system was evaluated in a multicenter, randomized, sham–controlled, single blind study, according to the company. Treatment with the LipoSonix system was shown to be superior to a sham control in reducing waist circumference, meeting the pre–specified primary endpoint of the study. The 59 J/cm2 treatment group demonstrated an approximately 1 cm greater waist circumference reduction as compared to sham. On average, the mean change in waist circumference of approximately 2.6 cm (1 inch) compared to baseline was demonstrated in the 59 J/cm2 treatment group — equal to about one dress or pant size.

The safety of treatment with the LipoSonix system was assessed over 24 weeks post–treatment. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events, results from a pre–specified battery of blood tests and physical examinations. The adverse events from treatment with the LipoSonix system during the study included procedural pain, post–procedural pain, bruising and swelling. According to the company, these were mostly mild, short–lived in duration and resolved without incident. There were no serious adverse events or unanticipated adverse device effects.

Per the terms of the agreement announced on September 13, 2011 for Solta to acquire the LipoSonix subsidiary from Medicis, with the closing of the acquisition, Solta will make a one-time payment to Medicis of $20 million with respect to this clearance, in addition to the $15 million due at closing.

“Compared to its predecessor, the second generation LipoSonix system provides a treatment area that is 2.7 times as large for faster treatment times, has improved ergonomics and ease of use for the practitioner, and has a much smaller footprint in the physician’s office,” said Stephen J. Fanning, Chairman, President & CEO of Solta Medical. “We congratulate Medicis on receiving FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system prior to our previously anticipated timeframe of first quarter 2012. We look forward to closing the transaction and entering the fast growing non-invasive fat reduction market.”

The first generation LipoSonix system is currently marketed in Canada, the European Union and Japan. Medicis will continue supporting existing LipoSonix customers worldwide until Solta assumes this responsibility after closing.

Cutera Receives Health Canada Approval for Excel V Laser System

Cutera, Inc., recently announced Health Canada approval for its Excel V laser. The Excel V system can be used for a variety of treatments, including vascular, pigment and overall skin rejuvenation treatments.

“We are pleased to provide the Excel V system to clinicians in Canada. Featuring a dual wavelength platform, this premium workstation targets skin imperfections, including diffuse redness, spider and leg veins and photo rejuvenation, which are the mainstays of dermatology treatments,” said Kevin Connors, president and CEO of Cutera.

At the touch of a button, and guided by built-in navigation, physicians can treat a broader range of vascular and pigmented indications with the Excel V system. One ergonomic handpiece features both a 532 nm laser, optimized for superficial vessels and pigments, and a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, proven to treat vascular conditions, such as leg veins, port wine stains and hemangiomas. The second handpiece, Genesis V, for facial rejuvenation, affords a gentle and collagen-producing solution for fine lines, uneven texture and premature aging without downtime.

Roy Geronemus, MD, director of the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of New York, said, “I am pleased to offer a broader range of aesthetic options to my patients with the new, versatile Excel V laser. With the high-powered 532 nm green wavelength, I can treat veins on the face, chest and legs with therapeutic fluences at short pulses and large spot sizes. At the same time, the 1064 Nd:YAG wavelength is optimal for treating leg veins and other vascular abnormalities. Patient comfort during treatments is maximized with adjustable contact cooling before, during and after each therapeutic pulse.”

According to Cutera, the ergonomic handpieces on the Excel V laser integrate optimized visibility through its unique sapphire window with real-time calibration and spot size adjustment, enabling unique precision for each targeted lesion. With a solid state design, there are no long wait times or costly consumables, such as cryogen spray, hazardous dye kits or fiber replacements that are associated with current systems.

Sciton Introduces the SkinTyte II

Sciton recently announced the introduction of the SkinTyte II for rapid and effective non-invasive tissue heating. The SkinTyte II speeds up and optimizes the SkinTyte procedure by utilizing visible and infrared light energy tailored for skin types I through VI. It can be used on many parts of the body and popular areas, including the cheeks, chin, jaw lines, neck, abdomen and arms.

“SkinTyte II produces results that are as good or better than the original SkinTyte procedure, but in one-half or one-third of the time,” says Dr. Patrick Bitter, Jr., founder of Advanced Aesthetic Dermatology in Los Gatos, CA. “A tissue-firming procedure on a larger zone like the abdomen can take 30 minutes to an hour with other technologies. We can now get high-quality results in 15 to 20 minutes with SkinTyte II.”

SkinTyte II is available on the JOULE and BBL expandable platforms. Both systems offer the option to add additional modules to treat many other issues, such as acne, permanent hair reduction, pigmented lesions, scar revision, skin texture improvement and vascular lesions. To learn more about the SkinTyte II, visit www.sciton.com/webinars to access an archived webinar and watch Dr. Bitter demonstrate the product.

Treating Acne Scars

Amy Forman Taub, MD, and Cara Beth Garretson, MD, recently published their study, “Treatment of Acne Scars of Skin Types II to V by Sublative Fractional Bipolar Radiofrequency and Bipolar Radiofrequency Combined with Diode Laser,” in the October 2011 e-Edition of the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

The researchers conducted a study in which participants (8 men and 12 women between 30 to 50 years of age) received up to five treatments with sublative fractional bipolar radiofrequency and bipolar radiofrequency combined with diode laser. Treatments were directed to at least two areas (cheeks, forehead, perioral and neck) with acne scars evaluated at 4-week intervals. The researchers found that acne scars improved significantly one month after three treatments, with improvement lasting for at least 12 weeks after the fifth treatment. According to the published study, improvement was effective in all skin types treated (II to V) and treatment produced minimal downtime with no significant side effects.

New At-Home Skin Therapy Treatment from ANSR Now Available

ANSR announced the introduction of a new at-home skin therapy treatment product that combines red and infrared LED light technology.

According to the company, the ANSR: HALO harnesseses red and infrared LED light to increase collagen production in the skin to improve the overall look and texture. A narrow light wave spectrum created by the red LED light is safely absorbed into the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evening skin tone and reducing the appearance of pore size and redness. The infrared LED light simultaneously penetrates the skin even deeper to accelerate skin rejuvenation and further reduce the appearance of deeper fine lines and wrinkles, according to ANSR. It is suggested that patients use the palm-sized, mobile device for 10 minutes per day to see results within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use. The company explains that the device’s shape allows the product to follow curves of the face and allows users to reach hard-to-reach areas of the face and decollete.

Tattoo Scar Removal

Laser treatment for the removal of scarring, caused by tattoo removal is growing in popularity, according to one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatment providers, The Harley Medical Group. According to the group, since a number of celebrities have recently had tattoos removed, appointments for the removal of tattoo scars have risen by 30% at the group’s practices.

The Harley Medical Group explained that it uses an FDA-approved laser treatment that is proven to reduce the appearance of scarring by up to 75%. Lisa Littlehales, Lead Nurse Counselor at The Harley Medical Group, said, “The most common reasons for the removal of tattoos is a new phase in life such as a change in relationship, or a new job, as seen with tattoo removal on celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Megan Fox and Eva Longoria. The removal process can often result in scarring, leaving the memory of the tattoo visible and so defeating the point of the removal for the patient. With a recommended course of four, the treatment uses fractional laser technology to break down scar tissue and generate new healthy tissue. The result permanently reduces the appearance of the scar by producing smoother, more even skin that is lighter in color.”

The group reported that the most popular parts of the body for tattoo scar removal include the wrists, back, ankles, feet and arms.

This ongoing series examines recent news and updates about laser and light therapies. This month's edition covers the recent announcement by Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, that they have received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction, a new study reveals that a combination laser approach is effective for the treatment of acne scars and more.

Solta Announces FDA approval of Second Generation LipoSonix For Non-Invasive Waist Circumference Reduction

Solta Medical, Inc., recently announced that Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, has received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, specifically indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction. The LipoSonix system delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) energy that can disrupt subcutaneous adipose tissue and provide a non-invasive approach to achieve a desired aesthetic effect.

The LipoSonix system was evaluated in a multicenter, randomized, sham–controlled, single blind study, according to the company. Treatment with the LipoSonix system was shown to be superior to a sham control in reducing waist circumference, meeting the pre–specified primary endpoint of the study. The 59 J/cm2 treatment group demonstrated an approximately 1 cm greater waist circumference reduction as compared to sham. On average, the mean change in waist circumference of approximately 2.6 cm (1 inch) compared to baseline was demonstrated in the 59 J/cm2 treatment group — equal to about one dress or pant size.

The safety of treatment with the LipoSonix system was assessed over 24 weeks post–treatment. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events, results from a pre–specified battery of blood tests and physical examinations. The adverse events from treatment with the LipoSonix system during the study included procedural pain, post–procedural pain, bruising and swelling. According to the company, these were mostly mild, short–lived in duration and resolved without incident. There were no serious adverse events or unanticipated adverse device effects.

Per the terms of the agreement announced on September 13, 2011 for Solta to acquire the LipoSonix subsidiary from Medicis, with the closing of the acquisition, Solta will make a one-time payment to Medicis of $20 million with respect to this clearance, in addition to the $15 million due at closing.

“Compared to its predecessor, the second generation LipoSonix system provides a treatment area that is 2.7 times as large for faster treatment times, has improved ergonomics and ease of use for the practitioner, and has a much smaller footprint in the physician’s office,” said Stephen J. Fanning, Chairman, President & CEO of Solta Medical. “We congratulate Medicis on receiving FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system prior to our previously anticipated timeframe of first quarter 2012. We look forward to closing the transaction and entering the fast growing non-invasive fat reduction market.”

The first generation LipoSonix system is currently marketed in Canada, the European Union and Japan. Medicis will continue supporting existing LipoSonix customers worldwide until Solta assumes this responsibility after closing.

Cutera Receives Health Canada Approval for Excel V Laser System

Cutera, Inc., recently announced Health Canada approval for its Excel V laser. The Excel V system can be used for a variety of treatments, including vascular, pigment and overall skin rejuvenation treatments.

“We are pleased to provide the Excel V system to clinicians in Canada. Featuring a dual wavelength platform, this premium workstation targets skin imperfections, including diffuse redness, spider and leg veins and photo rejuvenation, which are the mainstays of dermatology treatments,” said Kevin Connors, president and CEO of Cutera.

At the touch of a button, and guided by built-in navigation, physicians can treat a broader range of vascular and pigmented indications with the Excel V system. One ergonomic handpiece features both a 532 nm laser, optimized for superficial vessels and pigments, and a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, proven to treat vascular conditions, such as leg veins, port wine stains and hemangiomas. The second handpiece, Genesis V, for facial rejuvenation, affords a gentle and collagen-producing solution for fine lines, uneven texture and premature aging without downtime.

Roy Geronemus, MD, director of the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of New York, said, “I am pleased to offer a broader range of aesthetic options to my patients with the new, versatile Excel V laser. With the high-powered 532 nm green wavelength, I can treat veins on the face, chest and legs with therapeutic fluences at short pulses and large spot sizes. At the same time, the 1064 Nd:YAG wavelength is optimal for treating leg veins and other vascular abnormalities. Patient comfort during treatments is maximized with adjustable contact cooling before, during and after each therapeutic pulse.”

According to Cutera, the ergonomic handpieces on the Excel V laser integrate optimized visibility through its unique sapphire window with real-time calibration and spot size adjustment, enabling unique precision for each targeted lesion. With a solid state design, there are no long wait times or costly consumables, such as cryogen spray, hazardous dye kits or fiber replacements that are associated with current systems.

Sciton Introduces the SkinTyte II

Sciton recently announced the introduction of the SkinTyte II for rapid and effective non-invasive tissue heating. The SkinTyte II speeds up and optimizes the SkinTyte procedure by utilizing visible and infrared light energy tailored for skin types I through VI. It can be used on many parts of the body and popular areas, including the cheeks, chin, jaw lines, neck, abdomen and arms.

“SkinTyte II produces results that are as good or better than the original SkinTyte procedure, but in one-half or one-third of the time,” says Dr. Patrick Bitter, Jr., founder of Advanced Aesthetic Dermatology in Los Gatos, CA. “A tissue-firming procedure on a larger zone like the abdomen can take 30 minutes to an hour with other technologies. We can now get high-quality results in 15 to 20 minutes with SkinTyte II.”

SkinTyte II is available on the JOULE and BBL expandable platforms. Both systems offer the option to add additional modules to treat many other issues, such as acne, permanent hair reduction, pigmented lesions, scar revision, skin texture improvement and vascular lesions. To learn more about the SkinTyte II, visit www.sciton.com/webinars to access an archived webinar and watch Dr. Bitter demonstrate the product.

Treating Acne Scars

Amy Forman Taub, MD, and Cara Beth Garretson, MD, recently published their study, “Treatment of Acne Scars of Skin Types II to V by Sublative Fractional Bipolar Radiofrequency and Bipolar Radiofrequency Combined with Diode Laser,” in the October 2011 e-Edition of the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

The researchers conducted a study in which participants (8 men and 12 women between 30 to 50 years of age) received up to five treatments with sublative fractional bipolar radiofrequency and bipolar radiofrequency combined with diode laser. Treatments were directed to at least two areas (cheeks, forehead, perioral and neck) with acne scars evaluated at 4-week intervals. The researchers found that acne scars improved significantly one month after three treatments, with improvement lasting for at least 12 weeks after the fifth treatment. According to the published study, improvement was effective in all skin types treated (II to V) and treatment produced minimal downtime with no significant side effects.

New At-Home Skin Therapy Treatment from ANSR Now Available

ANSR announced the introduction of a new at-home skin therapy treatment product that combines red and infrared LED light technology.

According to the company, the ANSR: HALO harnesseses red and infrared LED light to increase collagen production in the skin to improve the overall look and texture. A narrow light wave spectrum created by the red LED light is safely absorbed into the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evening skin tone and reducing the appearance of pore size and redness. The infrared LED light simultaneously penetrates the skin even deeper to accelerate skin rejuvenation and further reduce the appearance of deeper fine lines and wrinkles, according to ANSR. It is suggested that patients use the palm-sized, mobile device for 10 minutes per day to see results within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use. The company explains that the device’s shape allows the product to follow curves of the face and allows users to reach hard-to-reach areas of the face and decollete.

Tattoo Scar Removal

Laser treatment for the removal of scarring, caused by tattoo removal is growing in popularity, according to one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatment providers, The Harley Medical Group. According to the group, since a number of celebrities have recently had tattoos removed, appointments for the removal of tattoo scars have risen by 30% at the group’s practices.

The Harley Medical Group explained that it uses an FDA-approved laser treatment that is proven to reduce the appearance of scarring by up to 75%. Lisa Littlehales, Lead Nurse Counselor at The Harley Medical Group, said, “The most common reasons for the removal of tattoos is a new phase in life such as a change in relationship, or a new job, as seen with tattoo removal on celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Megan Fox and Eva Longoria. The removal process can often result in scarring, leaving the memory of the tattoo visible and so defeating the point of the removal for the patient. With a recommended course of four, the treatment uses fractional laser technology to break down scar tissue and generate new healthy tissue. The result permanently reduces the appearance of the scar by producing smoother, more even skin that is lighter in color.”

The group reported that the most popular parts of the body for tattoo scar removal include the wrists, back, ankles, feet and arms.

This ongoing series examines recent news and updates about laser and light therapies. This month's edition covers the recent announcement by Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, that they have received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction, a new study reveals that a combination laser approach is effective for the treatment of acne scars and more.

Solta Announces FDA approval of Second Generation LipoSonix For Non-Invasive Waist Circumference Reduction

Solta Medical, Inc., recently announced that Medicis Technologies Corporation (formerly LipoSonix, Inc.), a subsidiary of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, has received FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system, specifically indicated for non-invasive waist circumference reduction. The LipoSonix system delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) energy that can disrupt subcutaneous adipose tissue and provide a non-invasive approach to achieve a desired aesthetic effect.

The LipoSonix system was evaluated in a multicenter, randomized, sham–controlled, single blind study, according to the company. Treatment with the LipoSonix system was shown to be superior to a sham control in reducing waist circumference, meeting the pre–specified primary endpoint of the study. The 59 J/cm2 treatment group demonstrated an approximately 1 cm greater waist circumference reduction as compared to sham. On average, the mean change in waist circumference of approximately 2.6 cm (1 inch) compared to baseline was demonstrated in the 59 J/cm2 treatment group — equal to about one dress or pant size.

The safety of treatment with the LipoSonix system was assessed over 24 weeks post–treatment. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events, results from a pre–specified battery of blood tests and physical examinations. The adverse events from treatment with the LipoSonix system during the study included procedural pain, post–procedural pain, bruising and swelling. According to the company, these were mostly mild, short–lived in duration and resolved without incident. There were no serious adverse events or unanticipated adverse device effects.

Per the terms of the agreement announced on September 13, 2011 for Solta to acquire the LipoSonix subsidiary from Medicis, with the closing of the acquisition, Solta will make a one-time payment to Medicis of $20 million with respect to this clearance, in addition to the $15 million due at closing.

“Compared to its predecessor, the second generation LipoSonix system provides a treatment area that is 2.7 times as large for faster treatment times, has improved ergonomics and ease of use for the practitioner, and has a much smaller footprint in the physician’s office,” said Stephen J. Fanning, Chairman, President & CEO of Solta Medical. “We congratulate Medicis on receiving FDA clearance for the second generation LipoSonix system prior to our previously anticipated timeframe of first quarter 2012. We look forward to closing the transaction and entering the fast growing non-invasive fat reduction market.”

The first generation LipoSonix system is currently marketed in Canada, the European Union and Japan. Medicis will continue supporting existing LipoSonix customers worldwide until Solta assumes this responsibility after closing.

Cutera Receives Health Canada Approval for Excel V Laser System

Cutera, Inc., recently announced Health Canada approval for its Excel V laser. The Excel V system can be used for a variety of treatments, including vascular, pigment and overall skin rejuvenation treatments.

“We are pleased to provide the Excel V system to clinicians in Canada. Featuring a dual wavelength platform, this premium workstation targets skin imperfections, including diffuse redness, spider and leg veins and photo rejuvenation, which are the mainstays of dermatology treatments,” said Kevin Connors, president and CEO of Cutera.

At the touch of a button, and guided by built-in navigation, physicians can treat a broader range of vascular and pigmented indications with the Excel V system. One ergonomic handpiece features both a 532 nm laser, optimized for superficial vessels and pigments, and a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, proven to treat vascular conditions, such as leg veins, port wine stains and hemangiomas. The second handpiece, Genesis V, for facial rejuvenation, affords a gentle and collagen-producing solution for fine lines, uneven texture and premature aging without downtime.

Roy Geronemus, MD, director of the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of New York, said, “I am pleased to offer a broader range of aesthetic options to my patients with the new, versatile Excel V laser. With the high-powered 532 nm green wavelength, I can treat veins on the face, chest and legs with therapeutic fluences at short pulses and large spot sizes. At the same time, the 1064 Nd:YAG wavelength is optimal for treating leg veins and other vascular abnormalities. Patient comfort during treatments is maximized with adjustable contact cooling before, during and after each therapeutic pulse.”

According to Cutera, the ergonomic handpieces on the Excel V laser integrate optimized visibility through its unique sapphire window with real-time calibration and spot size adjustment, enabling unique precision for each targeted lesion. With a solid state design, there are no long wait times or costly consumables, such as cryogen spray, hazardous dye kits or fiber replacements that are associated with current systems.

Sciton Introduces the SkinTyte II

Sciton recently announced the introduction of the SkinTyte II for rapid and effective non-invasive tissue heating. The SkinTyte II speeds up and optimizes the SkinTyte procedure by utilizing visible and infrared light energy tailored for skin types I through VI. It can be used on many parts of the body and popular areas, including the cheeks, chin, jaw lines, neck, abdomen and arms.

“SkinTyte II produces results that are as good or better than the original SkinTyte procedure, but in one-half or one-third of the time,” says Dr. Patrick Bitter, Jr., founder of Advanced Aesthetic Dermatology in Los Gatos, CA. “A tissue-firming procedure on a larger zone like the abdomen can take 30 minutes to an hour with other technologies. We can now get high-quality results in 15 to 20 minutes with SkinTyte II.”

SkinTyte II is available on the JOULE and BBL expandable platforms. Both systems offer the option to add additional modules to treat many other issues, such as acne, permanent hair reduction, pigmented lesions, scar revision, skin texture improvement and vascular lesions. To learn more about the SkinTyte II, visit www.sciton.com/webinars to access an archived webinar and watch Dr. Bitter demonstrate the product.

Treating Acne Scars

Amy Forman Taub, MD, and Cara Beth Garretson, MD, recently published their study, “Treatment of Acne Scars of Skin Types II to V by Sublative Fractional Bipolar Radiofrequency and Bipolar Radiofrequency Combined with Diode Laser,” in the October 2011 e-Edition of the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

The researchers conducted a study in which participants (8 men and 12 women between 30 to 50 years of age) received up to five treatments with sublative fractional bipolar radiofrequency and bipolar radiofrequency combined with diode laser. Treatments were directed to at least two areas (cheeks, forehead, perioral and neck) with acne scars evaluated at 4-week intervals. The researchers found that acne scars improved significantly one month after three treatments, with improvement lasting for at least 12 weeks after the fifth treatment. According to the published study, improvement was effective in all skin types treated (II to V) and treatment produced minimal downtime with no significant side effects.

New At-Home Skin Therapy Treatment from ANSR Now Available

ANSR announced the introduction of a new at-home skin therapy treatment product that combines red and infrared LED light technology.

According to the company, the ANSR: HALO harnesseses red and infrared LED light to increase collagen production in the skin to improve the overall look and texture. A narrow light wave spectrum created by the red LED light is safely absorbed into the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evening skin tone and reducing the appearance of pore size and redness. The infrared LED light simultaneously penetrates the skin even deeper to accelerate skin rejuvenation and further reduce the appearance of deeper fine lines and wrinkles, according to ANSR. It is suggested that patients use the palm-sized, mobile device for 10 minutes per day to see results within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use. The company explains that the device’s shape allows the product to follow curves of the face and allows users to reach hard-to-reach areas of the face and decollete.

Tattoo Scar Removal

Laser treatment for the removal of scarring, caused by tattoo removal is growing in popularity, according to one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatment providers, The Harley Medical Group. According to the group, since a number of celebrities have recently had tattoos removed, appointments for the removal of tattoo scars have risen by 30% at the group’s practices.

The Harley Medical Group explained that it uses an FDA-approved laser treatment that is proven to reduce the appearance of scarring by up to 75%. Lisa Littlehales, Lead Nurse Counselor at The Harley Medical Group, said, “The most common reasons for the removal of tattoos is a new phase in life such as a change in relationship, or a new job, as seen with tattoo removal on celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Megan Fox and Eva Longoria. The removal process can often result in scarring, leaving the memory of the tattoo visible and so defeating the point of the removal for the patient. With a recommended course of four, the treatment uses fractional laser technology to break down scar tissue and generate new healthy tissue. The result permanently reduces the appearance of the scar by producing smoother, more even skin that is lighter in color.”

The group reported that the most popular parts of the body for tattoo scar removal include the wrists, back, ankles, feet and arms.