Laser Treatments for Wrinkles: Effectiveness, Safety, Costs

Understanding Laser Treatments for Wrinkles

Laser skin resurfacing has become an increasingly popular way to treat wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and other skin imperfections. Lasers work by directing concentrated beams of light at irregularities in the skin's surface. The light energy gets converted into heat energy which stimulates collagen production and triggers the growth of new skin cells.

How Lasers Improve Wrinkled Skin

There are two main categories of lasers used for skin resurfacing - ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of damaged skin through vaporization. As the treated area heals, new smoother and tighter skin forms. Non-ablative lasers heat up the underlying skin while leaving the surface intact. This stimulates collagen production and cell renewal underneath.

Ablative laser treatments tend to be more effective for severely wrinkled skin. However, the recovery time is longer and there are higher risks of side effects like infections, scarring, and permanent skin lightening. Non-ablative lasers have minimal downtime but may require multiple treatments to see results.

Ideal Candidates for Laser Skin Resurfacing

The best candidates for laser wrinkle treatments typically have light skin tones, moderate wrinkles and sagging, and no active skin infections. Darker skin is more likely to experience hyperpigmentation or scarring. Those with extremely deep wrinkles may get better results from surgery.

It's important to have realistic expectations when considering lasers for anti-aging purposes. While lasers can provide dramatic improvements, they cannot eliminate wrinkles permanently. Most patients will need maintenance treatments every 6 months to 2 years.

What To Expect with Laser Wrinkle Treatments

The Consultation

During an initial consultation, the dermatologist will evaluate your medical history and skin to determine which laser options may help achieve your goals. They will discuss the potential risks and side effects so you can provide your informed consent.

Be prepared to provide details on:

• Your skin care regimen
• Any previous cosmetic procedures
• Skin concerns and treatment goals
• Medical conditions and medications

You'll also discuss the number of treatments needed, cost, and recovery.

Pre-Treatment Care

Typically you'll need to avoid certain medications and skin care products for 1-2 weeks before laser resurfacing. This includes products containing glycolic acids and retinoids which can increase sensitivity. Some patients may be given antiviral medications to prevent cold sore outbreaks triggered by laser treatments.

On the day of the procedure, you'll thoroughly wash your face and remove all traces of makeup, creams, oils, etc. Your provider may also trim any facial hair near the treatment areas.

During the Procedure

Before the laser treatment begins, a topical anesthetic cream will be applied for 30-90 minutes. This minimizes discomfort without affecting the treatment. Some practitioners also offer injected numbing medication, nitrous oxide, medication tablets, or general anesthesia options.

Protective eyewear will shield your eyes from laser exposure. Your provider may stretch out any wrinkles using medical tape or acrylic spreaders. The laser handpiece is then passed over targeted areas in a precise grid-like motion until full coverage is achieved. You will wear a cooling face mask between passes to reduce heat from the laser.

An average full face laser skin resurfacing session can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the type of laser used. Larger treatment areas like the face and neck tend to require more time. After the procedure is complete, an ointment or dressing is applied to the treated skin.

What to Expect During Recovery

Early Healing Stages

Immediately after more aggressive ablative laser treatments, expect severe redness, swelling, oozing, crusting, tingling, and burning sensations. Cold compresses, antibiotics, oral steroids and pain medications can provide relief while your skin starts healing. It can take up to 2 weeks before you look and feel presentable again.

Non-ablative lasers come with less intense post-treatment symptoms like redness, minor swelling, and flaking for 3-7 days. Cool compresses, moisturizers and over-the-counter pain medications can help you manage side effects.

Later Healing and Results

Gradual improvement will become evident within 2 to 6 weeks as your skin regenerates after ablative laser resurfacing. Non-ablative lasers may require a few additional monthly sessions to attain desired results. However, the effects wont be as dramatic compared to more invasive ablative treatments.

Most patients see about 50% to 80% overall improvement in discoloration and wrinkles. Complete healing can take up to 6 months. Avoiding sun exposure is crucial during the healing period to prevent skin damage and pigmentation issues.

Some common side effects like redness, sensitivity, and swelling may linger for months. Your skin may remain lighter or darker than its natural tone for a while. Most patients can resume wearing makeup, exercising and their usual daily activities within 10 to 14 days.

How Long Laser Resurfacing Results Last

Any skin improvements from ablative and non-ablative lasers tend to be temporary. Most patients enjoy results lasting 1 to 5 years before signs of aging start to gradually reappear. To maintain your youthful appearance, youll need periodic maintenance treatments and skin care.

Results longevity depends heavily on your age, health, skin type, lifestyle habits, and whether you continue appropriate skin care after lasers. Those who use quality sun protection and skin care products containing retinoids or antioxidants tend to have better long-term outcomes.

Considering Repeat Laser Treatments

On average, repeat laser skin resurfacing treatments are recommended every 6 months to 2 years after your initial series. For the best results, scheduling maintenance sessions before your improvements start fading too noticeably is key.

During repeat treatments, practitioners can focus on areas where wrinkles are starting to reappear for refined outcomes. Maintenance sessions typically require less recovery time compared to your first treatment series.

Risk Factors and Potential Side Effects

Although lasers can provide transformative anti-aging benefits, every cosmetic procedure comes with risks. The most concerning laser skin resurfacing side effects include:

• Burns
• Scarring
• Skin lightening or darkening
• Infection
• Cold sore breakouts

Those with darker complexions face higher risks of pigmentation changes after treatment. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can be challenging to correct. Taking antiviral medication before and after lasers can help prevent cold sore infections.

Less common side effects like swelling, oozing, breakouts and sensitivity generally fade within a few weeks to months after ablative laser treatments. Non-ablative laser risks may include temporary redness, flaking, swelling and bruising.

Choosing an Experienced Provider

Undergoing laser skin resurfacing with an inexperienced practitioner dramatically increases the risks of complications occurring. Always vet potential providers thoroughly and ask to see before and after photos of previous patients with skin types and conditions similar to yours.

Board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons with specialized laser training make the safest anti-aging laser providers. However, their services often dont come cheap. A licensed esthetician may charge far less per session but wont have the same expertise required for medical laser treatments.

The Takeaway

Ablative and non-ablative laser skin resurfacing can produce significant improvement in wrinkles, scars and skin damage when performed safely and appropriately. But to avoid complications and achieve satisfying results that justify the cost, it pays to thoroughly research your options.

Finding an reputable provider with in-depth laser expertise and pristine patient reviews provides the best chance for success. Understanding the limitations of laser treatments allows you to tailor your expectations. Being well informed on the process, recovery protocols, risks and average costs helps facilitate your decision.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.