The Lumenis M22 platform is an advanced platform that serves many functions in dermatology and aesthetics. The term platform refers to multiple systems or lasers in one device and the M22 platform has 3 lasers and an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). These lasers are the 1565 nm fractional non-ablative laser (ResurFx), 1064 nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG and a 1064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG. The IPL has many different filters with the commonest ones used are 515, 530 and 590. 

The ResurFx handpiece is a non-ablative fractional laser that emits light in columns which can penetrate certain depths of the skin as decided by the dermatologist. These columns of light generate heat that leads to stimulation of new collagen and wound healing in the skin but without any removal or ablation of parts of the skin hence the term non-ablative. The ResurFx fractional non-ablative laser is ideal for the treatment of acne scars, stretch marks, traumatic or surgical scars as well as facial rejuvenation. The treatment is relatively painless and no anaesthesia is required but it can be done using topical anaesthetic creams if required. The treatment takes usually 10 to 20 minutes and the recovery time is relatively quick with 2 to 3 days of redness and swelling. The degree of the swelling and redness depends on the parameters used and can in some cases be very mild.

The IPL is used for various different reasons and indications and that will also determine the choice of the handpiece. IPL is different from laser in that it uses a band of wavelengths and not a single one like the lasers. The IPL can be used for rosacea, redness, vessels, acne, pigmentation, sun damage, freckles and many other conditions. The treatment is painless with mild heat sensation and a quick recovery.

The long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in the M22 platform is specifically designed to treat deep vessels which are typically found in the legs. These can be the small red vessels often known as spider veins or the larger ones which appear blue or purple in colour. 

The Lumenis M22 laser platform is a versatile device that can be used safely in many conditions. Please refer to some of the relevant articles Professor Firas Al-Niaimi has published in the publications section of the website.