SERVICES

DermaKarma Laser Spa uses Sciton, a medical grade machine that is reputed to have set the standards in advanced laser and light sources to the aesthetic medical industry. Our machine is approved by Health Canada and CSA-certified and ensures patient safety and comfort while delivering exceptional results. After analyzing your skin, our technicians will determine which of the two laser options would complement your skin type: BBL (BroadBand Light) or Nd:YAG. The lasers selectively target your hair follicles by producing a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin in your hair. Our machines use a unique computer-guided scanning system that automates the treatment and allows technicians to modify the settings to best suit the treatment area, skin type, and hair type.

There are three stages to the hair growth cycle; the Anagen phase (active growth stage), the Catagen phase (dormant growth stage) and the Telogen phase (fall-out stage). When hair is in the Anagen phase, Laser Hair Removal is the most effective. Typically, 50-85% of hair is in the Anagen phase in any given time and 25-35% of these hairs contain enough pigment to permanently damage the hair follicle. Most of the hair will come back weaker and finer in texture and the frequency of treatments required will drastically decline after a full course of 6-8 consecutive treatments.

Laser Hair Removal is safe for all genders, most ages and skin types. We will do the work for you! Our technicians will complete a comprehensive skin analysis and consultation prior to recommending or performing ANY treatment. We ask that all clients keep us updated of any changes in health, medications and life events following our initial consultation, every time you visit. Children, individuals using blood thinning medication, and pregnant and nursing women should NOT undergo any laser treatments.

It is a common misconception that Laser Hair Removal is permanent and that hair will never grow back again. It is far more accurate to describe it as permanent hair reduction as there are many factors that impact results. Age, hormonal changes, and individual body chemistry all play a factor in the results, how many treatments are required, and the frequency of treatments needed. In general, many clients return once or twice a year for maintenance after completing a full course of consecutive treatments.

This depends on the area of the body and you as an individual. Generally speaking, for optimal results, we often recommend an initial course of 6-8 consecutive treatments. Factors such as age, sex, hormones, hair thickness, the treatment area, medications, and body chemistry cause variations in the number of treatments required. There is typically a gap of 4-6 weeks in between treatments depending on the treatment area. After that, many clients only come back for touch-ups as needed (usually a couple to a few times in a year depending on the treatment area).

At DermaKarma, our technicians are highly trained and skilled at performing laser hair removal services and we take preventive measures to minimize possible side effects. Possible side effects may include redness, irritation, crusting, changes in skin colour, eye injury, skin infection, and in very rare instances burns, blisters, or scarring. We implement a variety of preventative measures to reduce the chances of side effects such as; providing protective eyewear to clients, using ultrasound gel, ensuring all equipment is diligently sanitized, applying sunscreen post-treatment, outlining pre and post-treatment guidelines, and ensuring technicians wash and/or sanitize their hands prior to providing any service. For more details, here is a link to an article by Medical News Today.

It is recommended that clients:
• Shave treatment area within 24 hours prior to treatment
• Avoid applying perfume, deodorants or any other potential irritants in the treatment area
• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from sunbathing, self-tanning lotions or sprays, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels or collagen injections
• Inform technicians prior to each treatment if you are taking Accutane or blood thinners like aspirin, have permanent makeup, tattoos, artificial fillers, have recently had microdermabrasion or glycolic acid treatments.
• For your safety, protective goggles will be provided to clients to wear during the treatment

24 to 48 hours after your treatment
• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat to the treated area
• If you experience redness or irritation, cool the area by applying a cold gel pack on the area, taking a cold shower or bath, and/or other cold compresses
• Apply a minimum of 30 SPF sunscreen regularly
• Avoid applying lotions, creams, makeup or deodorant (mineral makeup such as Jane Iredale is ok)
• Avoid excessive exercise that causes sweat

DermaKarma Laser Spa uses eDermastamp® which is a certified medical grade machine (ISO13485 certified) licensed by Health Canada. It contains the optimal number of surgical grade microneedles to ensure safe and effective treatment. The eDermaStamp® is considered the gold standard of microneedling equipment on the market with the fastest motor at 150 strokes per second. The roller device consists of atraumatic cone shaped needles, an optimal needle count, and applies consistent low and even pressure to gently, safely and effectively penetrate the skin at the appropriate depth.

The treatment will begin with prepping the skin by cleansing and applying a numbing cream to ensure maximum client comfort. Once the treatment area is numb, the technician will use the roller device to administer the collagen induction treatment. The oscillating microneedles create micro wounds that seal within minutes of the treatment. The micro wounds triggers the body’s natural healing process by stimulating cell proliferation and the formation of new collagen. The technician is able to adjust the length of the needles according to the indication and treatment area, ensuring the most precise and safe procedure. Following the treatment a hyaluronic acid mask is applied to help calm and hydrate the skin. The skin will be red and sensitive anywhere from 24-72 hours following the treatment and it is important to follow the post-treatment instructions and guidelines. As new collagen and elastin form over the weeks following the treatment, the skin will become thicker, more supple and the results become more visible.

Microneedling is a great treatment option for both men and women with good overall health and of most skin types and tones, that would like a firmer, more youthful appearance. It is especially useful for individuals that would like to treat and improve conditions such as:
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loose skin
• Skin texture and tone
• Acne scarring
• Pore size
• Brown spots
• Stretch marks
• Pigmentation issues

This treatment is not recommended for clients that are pregnant, nursing, have open wounds, psoriasis or eczema, undergoing or have recently had radiation therapy, history of scaring, or are taking medications such as Accutane or steroids.

The number of treatments depends on client needs and concerns. Each treatment takes about 1.5 hours. For optimal results, DermaKarma technicians recommend 1-3 treatments for mild concerns or 3-6 consecutive treatments, 6 weeks apart for clients with more serious concerns. While most clients see some results 5-7 days following the treatment, full results will appear 2-4 weeks following the treatment as the skin fully heals and the collagen foundation is rebuilt and strengthened. DermaKarma technicians strongly recommend 24-48 hours of down time following the procedure with minimal exposure to the sun. Many clients maintain their skin by completing 1-2 single treatments a year to keep their skin looking firmer, younger and more supple.

Microneedling is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment, with a few mild side effects and some possible risk. The most common and expected side effects are redness, minor skin irritation and possible peeling immediately following the treatment between 24-72 hours. It is important to follow the post-treatment instructions and guidelines provided by DermaKarma technicians to minimize side effects and promote the healthy healing of your skin. Mild bruising is a rare, but possible side effect for clients with very sensitive skin and will tend to heal over the week following the treatment. In extremely rare instances, there is also a risk of bleeding or infection and a physician should be immediately consulted.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• Avoid products containing Retin-A, retinol, Hydroquinone, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, benzoyl peroxide, or bleaching lotions/creams 3-4 days prior
• Avoid anticoagulants and blood thinning medications a week prior to treatment, when possible. Consult your physician if you are taking medication prior to discontinuing any medication.
• No permanent makeup, tattoos or injectables at least 3 weeks prior to treatment
• Do not pluck, wax, bleach or use depilatory lotions/creams a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the treatment
• No tanning 24-48 hours prior
• Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated

• During the first 24 hours after the treatment, use the Dermaroller® Hyaluronic Acid provided by your technician as directed
• Avoid direct sunlight and using sunscreen for 48 hours.
• Daily use of a minimum of 30 SPF sunscreen is strongly recommended 48 hours after the treatment.
• Use the provided Dermaroller® Hyaluronic Acid Mask at bedtime after the treatment
• For the first 48 hours, refrain from exercise, saunas, hot tubs, self-tanning lotions/sprays, and sun-beds.
• Avoid touching treated skin unnecessarily 24-48 hours after the treatment and always wash hands or wear gloves before touching the skin.
• Avoid makeup for 24 hours following treatment. If absolutely necessary, only use 100% pure mineral powder makeup for 24-48 hours after the treatment using new or sanitary brushes and tools.
• Do not undergo any other treatments on the skin for a minimum of 2 weeks after microneedling such as microdermabrasion, laser, IPL, chemical peels, plucking, waxing, depilatory lotions/creams
• 5-7 days after, avoid applying irritants on or around the treated area. Especially products containing Retin-A, retinol, Hydroquinone, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, benzoyl peroxide, or bleaching lotions/creams.

A facial includes some fundamental steps with a variety of individualized options added on to address individual client needs.

Each treatment includes:

Cleanse – We choose a cleanser that is best suited to your skin type to remove makeup, oil, dirt, and other debris.

Tone – We apply a toner to balance the pH of your skin and further removed any excess dirt, oil or makeup.

Skin Analysis – Our Aestheticians complete a comprehensive skin analysis to determine what your skin needs and discuss any client concerns.

Products Selection – We intentionally choose the most effective products for your individual needs and use products that harness the power of nature and advances in science

Exfoliation – Exfoliation involves gently removing dead skin cells on the outermost surface of the skin. This step can be completed mechanically or chemically.

Mask – a mask is carefully selected and applied to match your skin type and address individual needs

Facial Massage – a relaxing massage will boost circulation and collagen production

Hydration – We apply a moisturizer to give your skin hydration.

SPF – We always apply SPF to protect your skin.

Recommendations – We believe that educating our clients is an important part of our service. At DermaKarma, we will answer all your questions and you will not only leaving us glowing, but also knowing more how to take care of your skin.

Additional or Add-On Treatments:

• Extractions
• Steam
• Serum Application
• Lip Treatments
• Eye Treatments
• Mineral Makeup Application

Facial treatments are great anyone who would like a clear, well-hydrated complexion and bright, glowing skin. They are wonderful because they are customizable and can be performed on most skin types and address a multitude of concerns.

Professional facials are generally recommended monthly for maximum benefit and maintenance of healthy, glowing skin. At the very minimum, combined with a regular skin care routine, facials are recommended at least 4 times a year or every time the season changes. Depending on the type of facial, it can take anywhere from 45 – 90 minutes.

Side effects of facials are extremely rare. Redness and blotchy skin may occur from the pressure of exfoliation and extractions for individuals with extremely sensitive skin.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• Drink lots of water the day before as hydrated skin makes extractions easier
• If possible, avoid wearing makeup prior to treatment

• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat 24 to 48 hours after your treatment.
• Wear minimum 30 SPF sunscreen
• If possible, avoid heavy makeup or other skin-care products following treatment
• Regular skin care routine with medical grade products as recommended by your DermaKarma technician

The SilkPeel® Dermalinfusion® treatment uses a patented 3-in-1 technology to optimize plumpness, volume, hydration, tone and texture in the appearance of the skin. The SilkPeel® resurfaces and rejuvenates the skin via its recessed diamond tip wand that exfoliates by removing dry and damaged cells. The wand simultaneously extracts dirt, debris, and bacteria, and deeply cleanses the skin’s surface and pores using closed-looped vacuum pressure. Lastly, the wand will deliver Pro-Infusion serums with therapeutic and aesthetic benefits at the exact point of exfoliation and extraction. The benefit to this technique is that the serum penetrates deeper into the epidermal layers infusing it with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants at the optimal moment of receptivity thereby resulting in activating the cell regeneration process and enhanced visible results.

DermaKarma’s Aestheticians will analyze your skin and determine which one of the four specialized serums will best help you get the results you want. These highly-potent serum are a product of advanced research in skincare science and were created exclusively for SilkPeel® Dermalinfusion® treatments.

The SilkPeel® Dermalinfusion® treatment is great for most clients. It is not only is it designed to treat a range of skin conditions such as sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, acne, acne scarring, uneven granular skin, aging skin, enlarged pores, black heads, dark spots, etc., but is also for clients seeking smooth, healthy looking skin.

While most clients see visible results after the first treatment, it is highly recommended to complete a course of 4 to 6 consecutive treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart for optimal and lasting results.

The SilkPeel® Dermalinfusion® treatment is extremely safe and non-invasive with very few possible side effects and no downtime. Clients with sensitive skin may experience minimal irritation, mild exfoliation and tightening of the skin during the treatment. The skin may appear red or flushed immediately following the treatment and typically fades in about 30-60 minutes, leaving your skin looking healthy and renewed. It is also very important to wear sun protection and follow our post-treatment guidelines to prevent any risk of hyperpigmentation.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• No retinol 36-48 hours prior
• No hydroquinone 36-48 hours prior
• No tanning 24 hours prior

• Avoid direct sunlight for 24 hours
• Apply a minimum of 30 SPF sunscreen regularly
• Follow a daily skin care regime – hydrating cleaners, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen to enhance and maintain results

Peels are great treatments to restore and rejuvenate the skin. Younger skin naturally turns over skin cells every 18 to 20 days, giving it a healthy, radiant glow. However, this process slows down as we age, resulting in dull and lackluster skin. Peels revitalize the appearance of skin by stimulating cell turn over and removing the outer layer of dead skin. They also aid in cleaning and shrinking pores. The acids in the peels break down the build up of dead skin cells, excess sebum and bacteria that cling together to clog and expand pores, thereby clearing out, shrinking and refining pores. At DermaKarma, we carry many different types of peels which allows our technicians to customize a peel that effectively treat clients’ specific skin care needs. After prepping the skin the peel solution is applied with a brush and ends with the application of sunscreen. Some clients may experience a tingling sensation as the peel solution penetrates the skin, tightness, slight redness, and some flaking and peeling of the skin a few days following the treatment.

Peel treatments are great for all skin types and are customized based on clients’ individual skin care needs. We carry a selection of medical grade and organic peels that range from sensitive all the way to acne prone skin. Peels are great for a diverse range of skin concerns and conditions such as:
• Aging skin
• Dull, lackluster skin
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne prone skin
• Hyper-pigmentation
• Sun damaged skin
• Rosacea prone skin

Peels cannot be performed on skin that is tanned or burned from sun exposure and self-tanner should not be used 2 weeks prior to the treatment. Clients that are pregnant, nursing or taking medications such as Accutane or steroids cannot undergo this treatment.

Professional peel treatments can be performed as often as 2-5 weeks depending on desired results. In general, clients benefit from monthly peels to maintain healthy, glowing skin. When completing a course of treatments for a specific condition, a schedule will be created by a DermaKarma technician for the most effective results. Typically, Peels take about 30 minutes. After cleansing and prepping the skin, the peel solution is applied and given some time to penetrate the skin. Once the solution has been neutralized, sunscreen is applied to protect the skin.

At DermaKarma, the peels we carry are very safe and have minimal side effects. Some clients may experience a stinging sensation as the peel solution penetrates the skin. About 24-48 hours following the treatment clients may experience some tightness and flushed pink skin. Flaking and peeling of the skin is expected a few days following the treatment and is completely normal for chemical peels.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• Five days prior to the treatment, stop using a retinoid and benzoyl products
• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from hair removal (laser, waxing, threading, etc)
• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from sunbathing, self-tanning lotions or sprays, and tanning beds
• Inform technicians prior to each treatment if you are taking medications such as Accutane or antibiotics
• If possible, avoid wearing makeup prior to treatment

• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat 2 to 3 weeks after your treatment.
• Wear minimum 30 SPF sunscreen daily
• If possible, avoid heavy makeup or other skin-care products following treatment
• Do not apply acid or retinol based products for at least 72 hours following treatment
• Do not pick at your skin as it begins to peel or flake
• Avoid exfoliating treated area for 3 weeks following peel treatment
• Regular skin care routine with medical grade products as recommended by your DermaKarma technician

DermaKarma Laser Spa uses Scition’s BBL (Broadband light) device to deliver powerful Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Acne laser treatments are a 3 step process. First, the skin is treated with blue BBL light, which eliminates acne-causing bacteria deep down in the pores. Second, the skin is treated with yellow BBL light, which reduces inflammation and acne related redness, giving the skin a healthy luminous appearance. Lastly, the skin is treated with infra-red light in rapid, gentle pulses to initiate the body’s natural healing process.

Acne laser treatments are safe for most clients with concerns about acne. This treatment cannot be performed on women that are pregnant or trying to get pregnant and for individuals currently using Accutane. For minority clients, parental consent is required. The treatment is even more effective with a combination of an ongoing skin care regime and chemical peels.

The number of treatments required depends on the depth and severity of client concerns. Generally, DermaKarma technicians recommend a full course of 8-10 consecutive treatments, about 1 week apart for optimal results. Clients notice improvements gradually as results are cumulative but most see a significant difference after about 5-6 treatments.

At DermaKarma, our technicians are highly trained and skilled at performing acne laser treatments. Possible side effects are rare and may include redness, mild swelling, dryness, and irritation.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• Avoid applying perfume, deodorants or any other potential irritants in the treatment area
• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from sunbathing, self-tanning lotions or sprays, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels or collagen injections
• Inform technicians prior to each treatment if you are taking Accutane or blood thinners like aspirin, have permanent makeup, tattoos, artificial fillers, have recently had microdermabrasion or glycolic acid treatments.
• For your safety, protective goggles will be provided to clients to wear during the treatment

• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat to the treated area 24 to 48 hours after your treatment
• Avoid applying lotions, creams, makeup or deodorant (mineral makeup such as Jane Iredale is ok)24 to 48 hours after your treatment
• Avoid excessive exercise that causes sweat
• Regular skin care routine with medical grade products (such as the Vivier Acne Treatment Kit or as recommended by your DermaKarma technician)

Skin tightening uses the principle of selective thermolysis and utilizes pulsed light technology to deeply heat dermal collagen. The infrared energy uses heat to promote collagen generation and initiates the body’s natural healing process to renew the skin’s collagen foundation that leads to increased firmness. For weeks following the treatment, collagen gradually continues to generate and replenishes the skin’s natural collagen stores for additional skin tightening benefits.

Skin Tightening can be performed on men and women of all skin types and tones that would like a firmer, more youthful appearance. It is a great option for clients that do not want invasive methods of lifting and tightening such as surgery or fillers. This is also a good option for clients concerned about skin laxity due to pregnancy or weight loss, fine lines and wrinkles. Some clients even use it as a preventative method to generate a bank of collagen to get ahead of potential sagging as early as their late 20s.

Generally, DermaKarma technicians recommend a full course of 5 – 6 consecutive treatments, about 2-3 weeks apart for optimal results. While most clients see some results immediately, full results take up to 3-4 months as the collagen foundation is rebuilt and strengthened. Most clients maintain their skin by completing a course of treatments 2-3 times a year.

Skin tightening is noninvasive, gentle and safe, with virtually no downtime. It has minimal possible side effects and when they do occur, it resolves itself within a few hours. These may include redness, minor swelling and a warm sensation to the skin.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:
• Avoid applying perfume, deodorants or any other potential irritants in the treatment area
• Remove make-up, oils, sunscreens, lotions, etc. that may be on the treatment area
• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from sunbathing, self-tanning lotions or sprays, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels or collagen injections
• Inform technicians prior to each treatment if you are taking Accutane or blood thinners like aspirin, have permanent makeup, tattoos, artificial fillers, have recently had microdermabrasion or glycolic acid treatments.
• For your safety, protective goggles will be provided to clients to wear during the treatment

• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat to the treated area 24 to 48 hours after your treatment.
• Wear minimum 30 SPF sunscreen

Photorejuvenation uses the IPL device to emit a broad spectrum of light that is absorbed by melanin and/or oxyhemoglobin below the skin’s surface. This causes the pigmentation to break down, speed up cellular turnover, and stimulated collagen production, thereby resulting in smoother, vibrant, even, younger looking skin. For some pigmented lesions, the treated areas will initially darken and then will be followed by fading and flaking off. Following the treatment, clients notice that the skin appears more refreshed with less pigmentation and fine lines over the course of the week.

The photorejuvenation treatment is most ideal for clients with light to medium skin tones and can be performed on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, hands, arms, legs and feet. DermaKarma’s technicians will analyze your skin to determine if this is the best treatment for your concerns. It primarily addresses the following skin conditions:

• Skin discolouration
• Sun damage
• Sun-induced freckles
• Age spots
• Acne scars
• Rosacea
• Fine facial lines
• Melasma

The number of treatments required depends on the depth and severity of client concerns. Generally, DermaKarma technicians recommend a full course of 3-5 consecutive treatments, about 3-4 weeks apart for optimal results. Clients notice improvements with each treatment and a decrease in the appearance of red or brown spots, gradually clearing over time. In cases of severe redness or brown spots, additional treatments will be required.

Photorejuvenation is noninvasive, gentle and safe, with virtually no downtime. During the first treatment, clients may feel a warm or “rubber band snap” sensation as the light is absorbed by the targeted areas, however this decreases with each treatment and as results become more visible. Clients with sensitive skin may experience redness and mild, temporary swelling, that resolves within a few hours. In extremely rare cases, there may be mild bruising or small superficial blisters.

Please take note of the following pre-treatment guidelines:

• Two weeks prior to the treatment, refrain from sunbathing, avoid using self-tanning lotions or sprays, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels or collagen injections
• Inform technicians prior to each treatment if you are pregnant, have permanent makeup, tattoos, artificial fillers, or have recently had microdermabrasion or glycolic acid treatments.
• Inform your technician if you are taking Accutane, blood thinners like aspirin, minocycline, tetracycline, doxycycline or Retin-A/Renova
• For your safety, protective goggles will be provided to clients to wear during the treatment.

• Avoid direct sunlight, hot showers and baths, hot tubs, saunas, or any other heat to the treated area 24 to 48 hours after your treatment
• Wear minimum 30 SPF sunscreen
• Avoid sun exposure to reduce recurrence of pigmentation