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Advanced Vascular Lesion Therapy
Last Updated: September 22, 2025 | Medically Reviewed by Board-Certified Dermatologists
VBeam laser treatment is widely regarded as the gold standard for addressing vascular and redness-related skin conditions. At Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in Houston, our board-certified dermatologists offer the latest VBeam technologies to precisely target facial redness, spider veins, port wine stains, and other vascular lesions with minimal discomfort and downtime.
Using advanced pulsed-dye laser technology and integrated cooling for enhanced comfort and safety, VBeam treatments deliver consistent, natural-looking results for patients throughout the Houston area. Whether treating rosacea, broken capillaries, or red birthmarks, our dermatologists customize every treatment plan to restore a clearer, more balanced complexion.
- What is VBeam Laser Treatment?
- Conditions Treated with VBeam
- VBeam Treatment Process
- Treatment Results and Recovery
- Advanced Treatment Protocols
- Safety and Side Effects
- Ideal Candidates for VBeam Treatment
- Cost and Financing
- Our Expert Team
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is VBeam Laser Treatment?
VBeam is an advanced family of pulsed-dye laser (PDL) systems designed to safely and effectively treat vascular and redness-related skin conditions. Both VBeam Perfecta and VBeam Pro use concentrated light energy that targets oxyhemoglobin within blood vessels, allowing for precise treatment of visible redness, broken capillaries, and vascular lesions while preserving surrounding skin tissue.
The VBeam platform operates on the principle of selective photothermolysis—energy at specific wavelengths is absorbed by red blood cells, causing unwanted vessels to collapse and fade over time through the body’s natural healing process.
VBeam Perfecta
The VBeam Perfecta system delivers a 595-nanometer wavelength ideal for treating surface and mid-depth vascular concerns such as rosacea, spider veins, and port wine stains. Its micropulse technology disperses energy in controlled bursts to minimize heat buildup, while the patented Dynamic Cooling Device™ (DCD) sprays a cooling mist before and after each pulse to enhance comfort and protect the skin.
VBeam Pro
The VBeam Pro is the newest evolution in the VBeam family, expanding treatment capabilities with a dual-wavelength system (595 nm + 1064 nm). The addition of the 1064-nanometer wavelength enables dermatologists to target deeper or larger vessels, blue veins, and complex vascular or pigmented lesions that may not respond fully to standard therapy. The Pro also features a larger 15 mm spot size—allowing for faster coverage and reduced treatment time—and refined energy delivery for improved clearance and patient comfort.
Advanced Cooling and Precision
Both systems incorporate advanced cooling and customizable treatment settings to ensure optimal safety and comfort across all skin types. The choice between VBeam Perfecta and VBeam Pro depends on factors such as lesion depth, size, and skin tone, allowing our dermatologists to deliver truly individualized care.
Conditions Treated with VBeam
Our dermatologists at Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center customize each treatment using either VBeam Perfecta or VBeam Pro, depending on the depth, size, and nature of the vascular concern.
Vascular Conditions
- Rosacea and facial redness: Persistent erythema (redness) and flushing respond exceptionally well to the 595 nm wavelength of VBeam Perfecta, with 85–90% improvement rates reported in clinical studies.1
- Spider veins and telangiectasias: Both systems achieve significant improvement in 80–90% of patients, with VBeam Pro offering enhanced clearance for deeper or more extensive vessels.2
- Port wine stains: Congenital vascular birthmarks and malformations can be safely and effectively treated with customized parameters; the Pro system allows deeper energy penetration for more mature or resistant lesions.
- Hemangiomas: Benign vascular tumors in children and adults often respond well to VBeam Perfecta; deeper lesions may benefit from VBeam Pro’s extended reach.
- Cherry angiomas: Typically treated in one to two sessions with VBeam Perfecta or Pro.
- Venous lakes: Dark blue or purple vascular lesions on the lips or ears are well-suited for VBeam Pro’s 1064 nm wavelength.
- Poikiloderma: A mix of redness, pigmentation, and sun damage can be improved with either modality, depending on depth and vessel density.
Additional Applications
- Acne-related redness: Redness from post-inflammatory erythema
- Stretch marks: Early red or purple striae
- Scars: Red scars, including scars from accidents and trauma, hypertrophic and keloid scarring, and post-surgical scars
- Bruising: Accelerated resolution of post-procedural bruising
VBeam Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
During your consultation, one of our board-certified dermatologists will:
- Conduct a comprehensive skin assessment
- Review your medical history and current medications
- Evaluate lesion characteristics and treatment complexity
- Determine whether VBeam Perfecta or VBeam Pro is most appropriate for your needs
- Develop a customized treatment plan
- Discuss realistic expectations and potential outcomes
Treatment Session
VBeam treatments typically last 15-45 minutes depending on the treatment area:
Preparation: The treatment area is cleansed, numbing cream is utilized as needed, and protective eyewear is provided
Treatment: The laser handpiece is moved across the skin with cooling spray applied
Post-Treatment: Immediate cooling and soothing treatments are applied
Recovery Instructions: Detailed aftercare guidelines are provided
What to Expect During Treatment
- Sensation: Most patients describe the feeling as a rubber band snap followed by a burst of cold air
- Comfort: The Dynamic Cooling Device and numbing cream significantly reduces discomfort. Pronox (nitrous oxide laughing gas) can also be utilized as needed.
- Duration: Individual pulses last milliseconds with immediate cooling
- Tolerance: Most patients tolerate treatment well with or without topical anesthesia
Treatment Results and Recovery
Immediate Results
After treatment, mild redness and swelling are normal responses that typically resolve within 24–48 hours. Treated vessels may appear darker at first before gradually fading as they are reabsorbed by the body. Thanks to the Dynamic Cooling Device™ and refined energy delivery of the VBeam systems, most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities right away.
Progressive Improvement
- 1-2 weeks: Initial improvement becomes visible as redness and swelling subside
- 4-6 weeks: Significant improvement in treated vessels and redness
- 3-6 months: Continued improvement as the body completes the healing process
Most individuals achieve optimal outcomes after a series of sessions, spaced several weeks apart, depending on the condition and treatment area.
Advanced Treatment Protocols
Each VBeam treatment is customized based on the patient’s skin type, vascular characteristics, and comfort level. Our dermatologists carefully evaluate factors such as lesion depth, size, and density to determine whether VBeam Perfecta or VBeam Pro will achieve the most effective and comfortable outcome.
State-of-the-Art Technology
- VBeam Perfecta: 595 nm wavelength with pulse durations ranging from 0.45–40 milliseconds for surface and mid-depth vascular lesions.
- VBeam Pro: Dual wavelengths (595 nm and 1064 nm) with a larger 15 mm spot size for deeper or larger vessels, blue veins, and resistant vascular lesions. The Pro’s optimized energy delivery and upgraded cooling provide enhanced clearance and shorter treatment times.
- Spot Sizes: 7–15 mm (selected based on treatment area and target depth).
- Fluence: 6–18 J/cm² (carefully adjusted for safety and efficacy).
- Cooling: Dynamic Cooling Device™ settings tailored for maximum protection and comfort.
Multiple Treatment Approach
Most vascular conditions require a series of treatments for optimal results:
- Rosacea: 3–5 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart
- Spider veins: 2–4 treatments depending on vessel size and depth
- Port wine stains: 6–10+ treatments for maximum lightening
- Cherry and spider angiomas: 1–2 treatments typically sufficient
Our physicians continuously refine laser settings between sessions to maximize improvement and minimize downtime, ensuring every treatment is as precise and effective as possible.
Safety and Side Effects
Common Side Effects
VBeam laser treatments are well-tolerated and have an excellent safety profile when performed by experienced dermatologists. Most side effects are mild and temporary:
- Mild swelling: Resolves within 24-48 hours
- Temporary bruising: May occur, especially with deeper vessels
- Skin sensitivity: Temporary increased sensitivity to sun
- Darkening: Treated vessels may appear darker before fading
Rare Complications
- Hyperpigmentation: More common in darker skin types
- Hypopigmentation: Rare with proper treatment parameters
- Scarring: Extremely rare with experienced practitioners
- Infection: Very rare with proper aftercare
Safety Measures
Both VBeam Perfecta and VBeam Pro feature integrated cooling and customizable settings to protect the skin and allow safe treatment across all skin types.
- Comprehensive evaluation: Pre-treatment assessment of skin type and medical history
- Customized settings: Treatment parameters adjusted for individual characteristics
- Protective measures: Eye protection and cooling protocols
- Post-treatment care: Detailed instructions and follow-up monitoring
Ideal Candidates for VBeam Treatment
Best Candidates
- Vascular lesions: Visible red or purple blood vessels
- Rosacea sufferers: Persistent facial redness and flushing
- Realistic expectations: Understanding of treatment process and outcomes
- Healthy skin: No active infections or inflammatory conditions
- Sun protection compliance: Willingness to protect treated areas
Considerations
- Skin type: All skin types can be treated with proper parameters
- Age: Suitable for children and adults
- Pregnancy: Treatment typically postponed until after pregnancy
- Medications: Some medications may affect treatment suitability
Cost and Financing
Treatment Investment
VBeam Perfecta treatment costs vary based on:
- Treatment area size: Larger areas require more time and energy
- Number of sessions: Most conditions require multiple treatments
- Lesion complexity: Deeper or more extensive lesions may require additional sessions
- Geographic location: Houston market pricing
Financing Options
- Payment plans: Flexible financing available
- Package pricing: Discounts for multiple treatment series
- Insurance: Some medical conditions may qualify for coverage
- HSA/FSA: Health savings accounts can often be used
Our Expert Team
Our board-certified dermatologists bring extensive experience in laser treatments:
Paul M. Friedman, MD – Former President of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Leon Goldman Memorial Award recipient
Heather Richmond, MD – Board-certified dermatologist specializing in rosacea and laser treatments, over 10 years experience
Emily L. Guo, MD – Fellowship-trained board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with extensive laser and energy-based device expertise
Megan Couvillion, MD – Clinical investigator in 50+ trials involving energy-based devices, recognized Top Doctor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between VBeam Perfecta and VBeam Pro?
Both systems use pulsed-dye laser technology to target redness and visible vessels. The VBeam Perfecta is ideal for surface and mid-depth vascular concerns like rosacea and facial veins, while the VBeam Pro adds a second wavelength (1064 nm) and a larger spot size to treat deeper or larger vessels and blue veins more efficiently. Your dermatologist will determine which system best fits your needs during your consultation.
How many VBeam treatments will I need?
Most conditions require 3-5 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Rosacea typically needs 3-4 sessions, while spider veins may require 2-4 treatments depending on size and depth.
Does VBeam treatment hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a rubber band snap followed by cooling. The Dynamic Cooling Device significantly reduces discomfort, and most treatments are well-tolerated without anesthesia.
What is the downtime after VBeam treatment?
Minimal downtime is required. Most patients experience mild redness for 24-48 hours, and some patients experience mild to moderate swelling. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately. Makeup can be worn afterwards to cover postprocedural redness. Sun protection is essential during healing.
How long do VBeam results last?
Results are typically long-lasting for treated vessels. However, new vessels may develop over time due to genetics, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. Maintenance treatments may be recommended.
Can VBeam treat all skin types?
VBeam can safely treat mostskin types when proper parameters are used. Treatment settings are customized based on individual skin characteristics.
When will I see results from VBeam treatment?
Initial improvement is visible within 1-2 weeks as swelling subsides. Significant improvement occurs at 4-6 weeks, with final results visible at 3-6 months.
Schedule Your VBeam Consultation
Contact our office to schedule your VBeam consultation. During your visit, we will:
- Assess your skin condition and treatment goals
- Explain the VBeam treatment process in detail
- Develop a personalized treatment plan
- Provide cost estimates and financing options
- Answer all your questions about the procedure
Sources
1 National Rosacea Society. What is Rosacea? Available: https://www.rosacea.org/. Accessed September 22, 2025.
2 Alam M, Dover JS, Arndt KA. Treatment of facial telangiectasia with variable-pulse high-fluence pulsed-dye laser: comparison of efficacy with fluences immediately above and below the purpura threshold. Dermatol Surg. 2003 Jul;29(7):681-4; discussion 685. doi: 10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29181.x. PMID: 12828690. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12828690/. Accessed September 22, 2025