Also known as Photo Laser, Light Laser and Computer Controlled Light Therapy, this procedure appears to have gained in popularity in recent years. At the rate at which we are seeing this procedure marketed under different names, there may be many more to come in just a short time. It appears to be marketed to women, but men may also supposedly benefit from it.

The light-based therapy is billed as appropriate for many different applications, including some of the following: reducing the appearance of liver and age spots on the skin; minimizing the visibility of fine wrinkles and facial flushing; and providing relief from varicose and spider veins. Some companies claim it may also do away with unwanted freckles.

Proponents of this form of therapy insist that it is a superior alternative to laser-based procedures, such as medium depth lasers – only without the long recovery periods, burns and blisters that may ensue. Some even go so far as to say that this light therapy may be the only proven procedure to reduce redness, with other purported benefits such as reduced pore size.

Said to be developed by Dr. Patrick Bitter, Jr., the procedure may be expensive at most clinics and therapy centers. Some reports suggest that at the high end, it may cost more than $100,000 to get the most out of the experience. At the least, women and men who wish to try this procedure out may have to spend $100 per visit, with multiple visits typically recommended.

Some reports say that women and men of ethnic backgrounds such as Greek, Italian and African American may experience hyper or hypo pigmentation from the procedure. According to some of these sources, people of white, European descent may be the ideal candidates – especially those who have elastic and non-oily skin. Diabetics may be poor candidates.

There may also be many different substances to avoid while undergoing this type of therapy, including Garlic, Ginger, Cayenne, Gingko Biloba and other comparable ingredients. This may cause problems for those who would rather not partake in a high-maintenance regimen. Alternatively, some forms of supplementation have reportedly produced desirable results for those suffering from venous disorders.

• Advertised as painless
• A lengthy recovery period may not be required

• May be quite expensive
• Repeat visits may be required
• Money-back guarantee may not be offered
• Some supplements may be more effective

Intense Pulsed Light may be advertised as one of the best available options for women and men suffering from a variety of skin disorders, but we believe there may be a few superior alternatives on the market. Again, supplements based on patented, clinically tested ingredients, like Diosmin 95®, have been shown to reduce the appearance of both varicose and spider veins.

Individuals worried that such products may not work for them may be in luck: select companies offer 100 percent product guarantees on their supplements, which work out to be risk-free purchases (an individual may simply return the unused portion for a full refund). Additionally, discounts on volume purchases may be available for a limited time.