LADD: Laser Assisted Drug Delivery
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TREATMENTS

LADD: Laser Assisted Drug Delivery

LADD (Laser Assisted Drug Delivery) enhances the penetration of topical products and medication into the skin to help boost the efficacy of results, reduce duration of treatment and systemic absorption.

Concerns:

  • Rejuvenation, lines & wrinkles
  • Pigmentation
  • White discolouration
  • Scars

Downtime:

  • 0-5 days depending on treatment

Cost:

  • from $600
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What are the Benefits of LADD?

Enhance Efficacy

Microscopic channels allow deeper penetration of growth factors and medications boosting efficacy.

Avoid Systemic Meds

Optimising delivery of medication and growth factors to where they act. Avoid the need to take medications systemically.

Outstanding Scar Results

Some of the best results for scars are achieved with LADD.

Real Results with LADD

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How does LADD Work?

Laser assisted drug delivery is a technique to deliver growth factors and medication into the skin. It is commonly known by other terms such as LADD or mesotherapy.

The skin has a protective barrier function to keep substances out of the body. This means that creams applied to the skin aren’t absorbed very well.

LADD uses lasers to create microscopic channels that can extend to the dermis of the skin. LADD has been proven to enhance penetration of growth factors and medication into the skin, improving absorption and efficacy of these treatments1Lim HK, Jeong KH, Kim NI, Shin MK. Nonablative fractional laser as a tool to facilitate skin penetration of 5-aminolaevulinic acid with minimal skin disruption: a preliminary study. Br J Dermatol. 2014;170(6):1336-1340. doi:10.1111/bjd.12817. This can avoid the need for systemic (e.g. oral) dosing, minimising the risk of systemic side effects.

How laser assisted drug delivery (LADD) works.
Lasers create micro channels into the skin allowing for better penetration and efficacy of topical medications and growth factors

Which medications can be used for LADD?

LADD treatment medication

Numerous medications used for laser assisted drug delivery have been studied and proven to be effective for various conditions. These findings have been published in various medical journals.

However, very few medications have been officially registered with regulators as being able to be administered by laser assisted drug delivery. This means that the use of these medications for laser assisted drug delivery is considered to be Off-Label Use.

Regulators don’t allow us to write about off-label medications on our website, however, we are able to discuss these during your treatment session.

What can be Treated with LADD?

Scars

Scars are probably the most widely studied condition for the use of LADD and numerous studies have confirmed its efficacy for the treatment of scars. Laser assisted drug delivery has been shown to be very effective and can be used for keloids, acne and other scars.2Pawar M, Singh M. Microneedling with autologous platelet-rich plasma versus microneedling with topical insulin in the treatment of postacne atrophic scars: A simultaneous split-face comparative study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;84(3):810-811. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.05.152,3Wang JV, Ugonabo N, Geronemus RG. Fractional Ablative Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-l-lactic Acid: A 2.5-Year Safety Review. Dermatol Surg. 2022;48(2):258-259. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003333,4Steuer AB, Bajaj S, Wang JV, Geronemus RG. Safety and Effectiveness of Fractional Ablative CO 2 Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly- l -Lactic Acid for Rhytides and Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2024;50(4):400-402. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000004072,5Ng WHS, Smith SD. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery: A Systematic Review of Safety and Adverse Events. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14(12):2738. Published 2022 Dec 7. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14122738,6Wenande E, Anderson RR, Haedersdal M. Fundamentals of fractional laser-assisted drug delivery: An in-depth guide to experimental methodology and data interpretation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2020;153:169-184. doi:10.1016/j.addr.2019.10.003,7Muskat A, Kost Y, Balazic E, Cohen JL, Kobets K. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery in the Treatment of Scars, Rhytids, and Melasma: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Aesthet Surg J. 2023;43(3):NP181-NP198. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjac286

Rejuvenation of aging skin, lines & wrinkles

Several studies have shown dramatic improvement for the signs of photoaging when treated with laser assisted drug delivery.8Wang JV, Ugonabo N, Geronemus RG. Fractional Ablative Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-l-lactic Acid: A 2.5-Year Safety Review. Dermatol Surg. 2022;48(2):258-259. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003333,9Steuer AB, Bajaj S, Wang JV, Geronemus RG. Safety and Effectiveness of Fractional Ablative CO 2 Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly- l -Lactic Acid for Rhytides and Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2024;50(4):400-402. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000004072,10Ng WHS, Smith SD. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery: A Systematic Review of Safety and Adverse Events. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14(12):2738. Published 2022 Dec 7. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14122738,11Wenande E, Anderson RR, Haedersdal M. Fundamentals of fractional laser-assisted drug delivery: An in-depth guide to experimental methodology and data interpretation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2020;153:169-184. doi:10.1016/j.addr.2019.10.003

Hairloss

Hairloss has also been demonstrated to improve with the assistance of LADD. Some studies have shown doubling of hair count when used for adrogenetic alopecia (male & female hairloss).12Salah M, Samy N, Fawzy MM, Farrag AR, Shehata H, Hany A. The Effect of the Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser on Improving Minoxidil Delivery for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia. J Lasers Med Sci. 2020;11(1):29-36. doi: 10.15171/jlms.2020.06,13Balazic E, Muskat A, Kost Y, Cohen JL, Kobets K. The role of laser and energy-assisted drug delivery in the treatment of alopecia. Lasers Med Sci. 2024;39(1):73. Published 2024 Feb 21. doi: 10.1007/s10103-024-04015-0

Skin Cancer and Precursor Lesions

Photodynamic therapy and other medications are about 20-26% more effective at clearing these lesions when combined with LADD.14Jang YH, Lee DJ, Shin J, Kang HY, Lee ES, Kim YC. Photodynamic therapy with ablative carbon dioxide fractional laser in treatment of actinic keratosis. Ann Dermatol. 2013;25(4):417-422. doi: 10.5021/ad.2013.25.4.417,15Choi SH, Kim KH, Song KH. Efficacy of ablative fractional laser-assisted photodynamic therapy with short-incubation time for the treatment of facial and scalp actinic keratosis: 12-month follow-up results of a randomized, prospective, comparative trial. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2015;29(8):1598-1605. doi: 10.1111/jdv.12953,16Ko DY, Kim KH, Song KH. A randomized trial comparing methyl aminolaevulinate photodynamic therapy with and without Er:YAG ablative fractional laser treatment in Asian patients with lower extremity Bowen disease: results from a 12-month follow-up. Br J Dermatol. 2014;170(1):165-172. doi: 10.1111/bjd.12627

White Discolouration

White patches of the skin that have lost pigment have historically been one of the most difficult aspects of dermatology to treat effectively. However, recent innovations have provided promising results.

Types of white discolouration can be treated with LADD:

  • White scars from acne
  • Surgical wounds including skin grafts
  • Other traumatic wounds/scars
  • Vitiligo
LADD Indications

Why LADD treatment at Anue?

LADD at Anue

We believe our clients deserve access to expert laser-assisted drug delivery. That is why we offer our services by our trusted team, supervised by renowned specialist dermatologist, Dr. David Lim.

By using refined techniques, qualified professionals, and high-quality products, we aim to make you look and feel your best. Our photoaging, scars and white areas are safe and effective at helping you achieve your goals.

What to expect at your first LADD consultation

An experienced healthcare provider will conduct your first appointment as a consultation.

  1. The first thing they will ascertain is what your skin concerns are and what your desired outcome is.
  2. Next, they will undertake a comprehensive assessment of your skin and provide their expert recommendations regarding treatment.
  3. Then they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your skin.

Our optimal goal is to help you achieve long-term results so that you don't have to keep coming back for appointments.

LADD Consultation

NEXT STEPS

LADD treatments with Anue

At Anue, we provide routine follow-up care so you are not left unsupported.

We believe our clients deserve access to the safest administration and quality treatments available.

Look after you, book in with Anue.

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More Information

Preparing for LADD

It is important that you keep the treatment area out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning for four weeks prior to the treatment session. While tanned skin can be treated, we will need to modify the settings, compromising your results and it will increase the risk of adverse outcomes.

Pricing

Therapist Consultation (Redeemable)

Redeemable on treatment or product

 $100
Microneedling with LADD

 $490
CoolPeel with LADD

 $700
Frax with LADD

 $750
Fractional CO2 with LADD

 $1,300

The cost of reedemable consultations (where indicated) may be deducted from the cost of treatments or products within three months.

For best results, other treatments or a package of treatments may be recommended - pricing will be discussed prior to treatment.

Consultations with a Dermatologist may be reimbursible by your health insurance company, if the consultation is related to a medical condition. Please check with your insurance company to confirm.

Treatment Quickfacts

With many treatments there will be a period of recovery and “social downtime”.

CoolPeel with LADD

  • Numbing: Numbing cream recommended.
  • Swelling: 1-2 days.
  • Redness: 2-3 days.
  • Social downtime: 1-2 days.

Fractional CO2 laser with LADD

  • Numbing: Numbing cream recommended.
  • Swelling: 1-3 days.
  • Redness: 3-5 days.
  • Social downtime: up to 7 days.

Frax with LADD

  • Numbing: Numbing cream recommended.
  • Swelling: 1-2 days.
  • Redness: 2-3 days.
  • Social downtime: 1-2 days.

Microneedling with LADD

  • Numbing: Numbing cream optional.
  • Swelling: a few hours.
  • Redness: a few hours.
  • Social downtime: a few hours.

Post treatment care

The full effects of treatment can take 4-12 weeks to become visible. Generally, a course of about three treatments (case-dependent) is recommended for optimal results. Following treatment, it is normal to experience some discomfort, redness, swelling, and a sensation like a mild sunburn. These effects typically subside within a few hours to days depending on the treatment method. Some flaking of the skin for a few days is also normal.

We recommend a follow-up appointment four weeks after treatment to assess your results, individual response, and to plan additional treatments if required.

Immediately after treatment

  • Avoid touching or putting pressure on the treated area for at least 6 to 8 hours.
  • Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce any discomfort or swelling.
  • Minimise sunlight exposure and use sunscreen.
  • Treated areas may initially darken, then lighten after 48 to 72 hours.

Skincare

  • Use a soap-free cleanser and a non-fragrance moisturiser.
  • Avoid exfoliation and any strong skincare products around the treated area for at least 3 days. This includes retinol (vitamin A) and vitamin C.
  • Apply sunscreen with an SPF50 or higher to protect the treated area and avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least two weeks post-treatment.

Activities

Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 24-48 hours post-treatment. Also, avoid swimming or soaking in hot tubs for at least 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimers

Most people respond well to treatment. However, because you are an invdividual, treatment effects can vary and as such cannot be guaranteed. We of course, do our best to ensure you are happy with your treatment.

Our Artisans are committed to transparent communication and pricing. We encourage you to ask questions or voice your concerns throughout the process, including before, during and after treatment.

If we don't think a treatment will work well we will do our best to inform you and suggest alternative options.

We prioritise the safety and satisfaction of our patients at Anue. This means we may refuse treatment if we think it is inappropriate or we feel your expectations are unrealistic.

At Anue, only trained professionals administer treatments, supervised by a Dermatologist registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand.

It is important that patients disclose any and all their medical history including current medications during their consultation. This allows us to adjust your treatment to optimise outcomes and minimise risk. Despite a thorough evaluation of potential risks, side effects may still develop from treatment.

Patients are responsible for covering the cost of their treatments, and clinic fees are applicable. The effects of treatments may not be permanent as this depends on the underlying driver of the condition. Your treatment provider may recommend additional treatment courses.

We offer LADD treatments as a trusted solution for addressing specific concerns. Our Artisans carefully assess each patient's unique anatomy and requirements before recommending and administering LADD treatments.

It is important to realise that there may be a recovery period following treatment and that you organise your activities around this period so that your treatment results are not compromised.

We will provide you with guidance about how to look after the treatment area along with activities you can and can't do.

By choosing Anue, patients can trust in our expertise and commitment to providing safe, effective, and personalised aesthetic solutions.

References

  • 1
    Lim HK, Jeong KH, Kim NI, Shin MK. Nonablative fractional laser as a tool to facilitate skin penetration of 5-aminolaevulinic acid with minimal skin disruption: a preliminary study. Br J Dermatol. 2014;170(6):1336-1340. doi:10.1111/bjd.12817
  • 2
    Pawar M, Singh M. Microneedling with autologous platelet-rich plasma versus microneedling with topical insulin in the treatment of postacne atrophic scars: A simultaneous split-face comparative study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;84(3):810-811. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.05.152
  • 3
    Wang JV, Ugonabo N, Geronemus RG. Fractional Ablative Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-l-lactic Acid: A 2.5-Year Safety Review. Dermatol Surg. 2022;48(2):258-259. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003333
  • 4
    Steuer AB, Bajaj S, Wang JV, Geronemus RG. Safety and Effectiveness of Fractional Ablative CO 2 Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly- l -Lactic Acid for Rhytides and Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2024;50(4):400-402. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000004072
  • 5
    Ng WHS, Smith SD. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery: A Systematic Review of Safety and Adverse Events. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14(12):2738. Published 2022 Dec 7. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14122738
  • 6
    Wenande E, Anderson RR, Haedersdal M. Fundamentals of fractional laser-assisted drug delivery: An in-depth guide to experimental methodology and data interpretation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2020;153:169-184. doi:10.1016/j.addr.2019.10.003
  • 7
    Muskat A, Kost Y, Balazic E, Cohen JL, Kobets K. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery in the Treatment of Scars, Rhytids, and Melasma: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Aesthet Surg J. 2023;43(3):NP181-NP198. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjac286
  • 8
    Wang JV, Ugonabo N, Geronemus RG. Fractional Ablative Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-l-lactic Acid: A 2.5-Year Safety Review. Dermatol Surg. 2022;48(2):258-259. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003333
  • 9
    Steuer AB, Bajaj S, Wang JV, Geronemus RG. Safety and Effectiveness of Fractional Ablative CO 2 Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly- l -Lactic Acid for Rhytides and Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2024;50(4):400-402. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000004072
  • 10
    Ng WHS, Smith SD. Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery: A Systematic Review of Safety and Adverse Events. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14(12):2738. Published 2022 Dec 7. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14122738
  • 11
    Wenande E, Anderson RR, Haedersdal M. Fundamentals of fractional laser-assisted drug delivery: An in-depth guide to experimental methodology and data interpretation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2020;153:169-184. doi:10.1016/j.addr.2019.10.003
  • 12
    Salah M, Samy N, Fawzy MM, Farrag AR, Shehata H, Hany A. The Effect of the Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser on Improving Minoxidil Delivery for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia. J Lasers Med Sci. 2020;11(1):29-36. doi: 10.15171/jlms.2020.06
  • 13
    Balazic E, Muskat A, Kost Y, Cohen JL, Kobets K. The role of laser and energy-assisted drug delivery in the treatment of alopecia. Lasers Med Sci. 2024;39(1):73. Published 2024 Feb 21. doi: 10.1007/s10103-024-04015-0
  • 14
    Jang YH, Lee DJ, Shin J, Kang HY, Lee ES, Kim YC. Photodynamic therapy with ablative carbon dioxide fractional laser in treatment of actinic keratosis. Ann Dermatol. 2013;25(4):417-422. doi: 10.5021/ad.2013.25.4.417
  • 15
    Choi SH, Kim KH, Song KH. Efficacy of ablative fractional laser-assisted photodynamic therapy with short-incubation time for the treatment of facial and scalp actinic keratosis: 12-month follow-up results of a randomized, prospective, comparative trial. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2015;29(8):1598-1605. doi: 10.1111/jdv.12953
  • 16
    Ko DY, Kim KH, Song KH. A randomized trial comparing methyl aminolaevulinate photodynamic therapy with and without Er:YAG ablative fractional laser treatment in Asian patients with lower extremity Bowen disease: results from a 12-month follow-up. Br J Dermatol. 2014;170(1):165-172. doi: 10.1111/bjd.12627