How to Conduct Effective NIR Treatment

What is NIR?

NIR (Near-Infrared) technology uses the near-infrared spectrum (900-1800nm, peaking around 1300nm) to deeply heat the skin, achieving tightening and anti-aging effects.

What is the method of using NIR treatment?

1. Cleanse the Skin: Before treatment, clean the area to be treated to ensure there are no cosmetics or other impurities on the skin surface.
2. Apply Coupling Agent: Apply an ultrasound coupling agent (such as ultrasound gel) to the skin to ensure that NIR light can effectively penetrate deep into the skin.
3. Set Parameters: Adjust the energy level and treatment mode of the device according to the patient’s skin type and treatment needs.
4. Conduct Treatment: Use the NIR handpiece to move evenly over the treatment area in a gliding or dot motion, ensuring that each part receives sufficient energy exposure.
5. Treatment Duration: Each treatment session lasts about 30 minutes, with the exact time depending on the size of the treatment area and the individual patient’s condition.
6. Number of Treatments: It is generally recommended to undergo 6-8 treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart, to achieve the best results.

What parameters need to be set for NIR treatment?

During NIR treatments, energy density is crucial, measured in J/cm². The energy setting depends on skin type, treatment goals, and device model.

1. Energy Density Calculation
   • Energy Density (J/cm²) = Total Energy (J) / Spot Area (cm²)
   • Spot area is determined by the size of the device’s handpiece, e.g., a circular spot with a diameter of 1.5cm has an area of about 1.77cm².
2. Typical Energy Settings
   • Energy Density Range: 10-50 J/cm²
   • Face: 10-20 J/cm²
   • Body thick skin areas: 20-40 J/cm²
   • Deep anti-aging or firming treatments: 30-50 J/cm², handle with care
   • Target skin temperature: 39-42°C
3. Considerations When Setting Energy
   • Skin type: Sensitive skin needs low energy, dark skin patients need reduced energy
   • Treatment area: Low energy for face, high energy for thick body skin areas
   • Patient tolerance: Adjust energy based on patient response
4. Handpiece Parameters
   • Small handpiece (about 1.5cm²): Suitable for face or local areas
   • Large handpiece (about 10cm²): Suitable for large area body treatments
5. Energy Distribution
   • Move the handpiece evenly to ensure consistent energy distribution, avoiding hot spots or burns

What Are the Clinical Endpoints for NIR Treatment on the Skin Surface?

During NIR (Near-Infrared) treatment, clinical endpoints are crucial skin reactions observed to ensure the treatment’s effectiveness and safety.

Handling Overheating or Abnormal Reactions

• Immediate Halt: If temperatures exceed 42°C or strong burning sensations occur, pause treatment.
• Cold Compress: Use to alleviate discomfort.
• Parameter Adjustment: Reduce energy density or speed to prevent recurrence.

1. Skin Surface Temperature
   • Target Range: 39°C-42°C, optimal for collagen stimulation and skin firming.
   • Monitoring: Some devices have built-in temperature sensors; handheld infrared thermometers can also be used.
   • Clinical Sign: The skin feels warm, not burning, and is comfortable for the patient.
2. Skin Color Changes
   • Mild Redness: Indicates proper heating and stimulation.
   • Excessive Redness or Patchiness: Suggests overheating and requires treatment cessation.
3. Patient’s Subjective Feelings
   • Warmth: Patients should feel warmth without burning.
   • Pain or Discomfort: Indicates potential issues, prompting energy reduction or treatment pause.
4. Treatment Time and Uniform Coverage
   • Even Heating: Ensures all areas receive adequate exposure, preventing hotspots or omissions.
   • Time Control: Typically 30 seconds to 2 minutes per area, depending on device and practitioner experience.
5. Epidermal Protection
   • Cooling System: Many NIR devices have cooling features to prevent epidermal overheating.
   • Coupling Agent: Adequate gel or medium prevents excessive friction and overheating.

How long does NIR treatment take?

NIR treatments typically last 30 minutes for medium-sized areas, such as the face. The exact duration depends on the treated area, handpiece size, and the physician’s technique.

1. Facial Treatment Time
   • Full face: 20-30 minutes
   • Partial areas (eye area or jawline): 10-15 minutes
2. Larger Area Treatments
   • Neck: 10-15 minutes
   • Abdomen or thighs: 30-60 minutes
3. Influencing Factors
   • Area size: Larger areas take longer
   • Handpiece size: Larger coverage, faster treatment
   • Treatment depth and energy: Deeper or higher energy requires slower movement, increasing duration

What should be the interval between NIR treatments?

The frequency of NIR treatments depends on individual skin conditions and treatment goals.

1. Initial Course
   • Every 2-4 weeks, for 4-6 sessions, to stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity.
2. Maintenance Course
   • Every 3-6 months to maintain results and prevent collagen loss.
3. Special Cases
   • For mild skin laxity or short-term enhance, intervals may be shortened under medical guidance.
   • When combined with other anti-aging therapies, the frequency of NIR treatments may be adjusted for optimal results.

What should be noted after NIR treatment?

1. Post-treatment Hydration and Sun Protection
   • Emphasis on hydration and sun protection after treatment to prevent additional UV damage.
2. Experienced Practitioners
   • It is crucial to select experienced professionals to avoid side effects from improper parameter settings.
3. Post-operative Care
   • The skin may experience minor redness and swelling after treatment, which usually subsides within a few hours. Avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen.
4. Contraindications
   • Pregnant women, individuals with photosensitivity, and those with skin infections or open wounds should avoid NIR treatments.

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