Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) Treatment in Bellevue, WA
Gentle, Targeted Laser Therapy for Vascular Skin Conditions
At Eastside Dermatology in Bellevue, Washington, we offer Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) therapy to treat a wide range of vascular skin concerns in both children and adults. This advanced laser technology is effective, non-invasive, and especially well-suited for sensitive or pediatric skin.
PDL is one of the most commonly used lasers in dermatology for a reason — it’s safe, precise, and clinically proven.
What Is a Pulsed Dye Laser?
A Pulsed Dye Laser uses a focused beam of yellow light to safely treat abnormal or dilated blood vessels in the skin. The light is absorbed by blood vessels, gently heating them and causing them to close off. The body then naturally clears these vessels over time, reducing redness and improving skin tone.
What Skin Conditions Can PDL Treat?
PDL is used to treat a variety of vascular and inflammatory skin conditions, including:
- Port-wine stains (capillary malformations)
- Hemangiomas (when treatment is necessary)
- Rosacea-related redness (face, neck, chest)
- Telangiectasias (visible broken capillaries)
- Post-surgical or traumatic scars
- Cherry angiomas
- Facial redness from acne or sun damage
- Nail psoriasis
- Sebaceous hyperplasia
- Stubborn warts, especially periungual warts
Not sure if PDL is right for your or your child’s condition? Our Bellevue dermatology team can evaluate and recommend the best laser or non-laser treatment plan.
What to Expect During Your PDL Appointment
PDL treatments are quick and performed in-office at our Bellevue dermatology clinic.
Before Treatment
- No special prep is usually required.
- For pediatric patients, we may apply a numbing cream to ensure comfort.
- Everyone in the room wears protective eyewear during the procedure.
During Treatment
- The laser creates a brief snapping or stinging sensation, like a rubber band.
- Each laser pulse precisely targets the affected blood vessels only.
- Most children and adults tolerate the treatment well.
After Treatment
You may notice mild side effects such as:
- Redness or swelling
- Purple discoloration (known as purpura) that fades within a week
Most patients return to normal activities immediately. Cool compresses can relieve any temporary discomfort.
Post-Treatment Care: Protecting Your Results
After any laser treatment, sun protection is essential to avoid pigmentation changes. We recommend:
- Daily use of broad-spectrum SPF 30+
- Wearing a hat or seeking shade when outdoors
- Avoiding tanning beds
How Many PDL Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions depends on your specific condition and how your skin responds. For example:
- Scars and redness may improve after 1–2 sessions
- Port-wine stains often require a series of treatments, spaced several weeks apart
Your dermatologist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals and skin type.
Is PDL Safe for Children?
Yes! Pulsed Dye Laser is one of the most trusted and safest lasers in pediatric dermatology. It does not break the skin, and side effects are usually mild and temporary. Our board-certified dermatologists are experienced in using PDL safely in infants, children, and teens.
Serving Bellevue & the Greater Seattle Area
Eastside Dermatology is proud to provide expert laser skin treatments to patients in Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Issaquah, and surrounding communities in the Seattle area.
Request a Consultation
If you or your child could benefit from Pulsed Dye Laser therapy, our board-certified dermatologists are here to help.
Call us 425-454-1104 at to learn more or book an appointment.