Guide to Laser Resurfacing Machines and Procedures for Skin Rejuvenation

Laser Resurfacing Machines: A Guide

Laser resurfacing is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses laser energy to improve skin texture and reduce signs of aging and skin damage. A variety of laser resurfacing machines are available to treat different skin concerns. This guide will provide an overview of the types of laser resurfacing machines, how they work, what conditions they treat, and important factors to consider before undergoing laser resurfacing treatment.

What is Laser Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing is a technique that uses concentrated beams of laser light to remove damaged outer layers of skin. The laser precisely targets irregularities on the skin's surface layer by layer to reveal healthier and younger-looking skin below. The procedure promotes collagen production to smooth wrinkles, tighten skin, and improve tone and texture.

There are two main types of laser resurfacing:

• Ablative laser resurfacing - Ablative lasers completely remove (ablate) thin outer layers of damaged skin. These lasers penetrate deeper than other resurfacing lasers.
• Non-ablative laser resurfacing - Non-ablative lasers treat the underlying skin without removing the surface. This results in less downtime but requires more treatments for results.

How Laser Resurfacing Works

During a laser resurfacing treatment, the handpiece of the laser machine is slowly passed over the skin's surface. The laser beam penetrates the skin and is selectively absorbed by water in the skin cells. This causes the water to heat up, damaging or destroying the targeted cells.

The old, damaged skin cells are gradually eliminated and replaced by healthier cells beneath. This skin renewal process stimulates collagen and elastin production to smooth and tighten the skin. Improved blood circulation from the treatment also gives skin a healthy, youthful glow.

Conditions Treated by Laser Resurfacing

Some skin concerns that can be improved with laser resurfacing include:

• Wrinkles - Fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead
• Crow's feet - Fans of lines around the eyes
• Frown lines - Vertical creases between eyebrows
• Acne scars - Depressed scars from acne
• Surgical scars - Scars from cuts, wounds, or procedures
• Enlarged pores - Dilated pores that appear darker and more visible
• Sun spots - Brown hyperpigmented spots from sun exposure
• Age spots - Dark patches on skin that develop with age
• Uneven pigmentation - Irregular skin coloring and tone
• Precancerous lesions - Abnormal skin growths

Types of Laser Resurfacing Machines

There are many different laser systems used for skin resurfacing. The type of laser chosen depends on the specific skin concerns being addressed, the depth of treatment desired, and the practitioner's experience and preference. Some common laser resurfacing machines include:

CO2 Laser

The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is considered the gold standard ablative resurfacing laser. CO2 lasers deliver short, concentrated pulsating beams that precisely remove thin layers of skin tissue. The CO2 laser allows for the deepest penetration to improve more severe wrinkles, scars, and lesions.

Erbium Laser

Erbium lasers are also ablative fractional lasers commonly used for resurfacing. They are gentler than CO2 lasers with less downtime but can still treat wrinkles and scars effectively. Erbium lasers come in two wavelengths:

• Erbium:YAG - Penetrates closer to the surface and causes less coagulation for faster healing.
• Erbium:Glass - Can achieve deeper penetration similar to CO2 laser with more coagulation.

Nd:YAG Laser

The neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser is a non-ablative laser that targets deeper layers of skin without damaging the surface. It uses heat to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and firmness. The Nd:YAG laser is commonly used for skin tightening and rejuvenation.

Fractional Lasers

Fractional laser treatments use microscopic laser beams in a grid pattern to treat small fractions of skin at a time. The surrounding healthy skin aids in faster healing. Fractional CO2, erbium, and non-ablative lasers allow for more controlled, gradual resurfacing with minimal downtime.

Picosecond Lasers

Picosecond lasers deliver ultra-short pulses measured in picoseconds for highly precise targeting of pigment. These advanced lasers break up pigment particles more effectively for improved pigmentation and tattoo removal.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL devices use broad spectrum light rather than a single laser wavelength. IPL can improve skin texture, tone, and clarity by targeting pigment irregularities associated with aging. IPL is considered a form of photorejuvenation rather than true laser resurfacing.

Factors to Consider Before Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing offers dramatic skin improvement results when performed properly. However, the treatment requires significant care and preparation for best results and to prevent complications. Here are some key factors to consider beforehand:

Your Skin Type and Concerns

The most appropriate laser device and treatment settings depend on your specific skin type and the issues being addressed. Darker skin is at higher risk for pigment changes from laser treatment. Discuss your medical history thoroughly with your practitioner.

Provider Training and Experience

Laser resurfacing should only be performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Confirm your provider has in-depth training with the specific laser system used for the procedure.

Ablative vs Non-Ablative Methods

Ablative lasers penetrate deeper for more significant results but require weeks of recovery time. Non-ablative lasers involve less downtime but more gradual improvements over multiple sessions. Talk to your provider about which laser type is recommended for your needs.

Treatment Costs

The cost for laser resurfacing depends on the type of laser used, number of treatment areas, and provider fees. Ablative laser treatments tend to range from $2,000 - $5,000 per session while non-ablative treatments range from $1,000 - $2,000 per session.

Downtime

Ablative laser resurfacing can cause redness, swelling, oozing, and scabbing that may last for 1-2 weeks. Non-ablative lasers have less downtime of a few days. Schedule your treatment when you can take time to recover.

Pain and Discomfort

Resurfacing lasers involve a degree of pain and stinging during the procedure, manageable with numbing cream. Ablative treatments are more painful with a prolonged recovery period. Discuss your pain tolerance with your doctor.

Risks and Side Effects

Possible side effects include infection, acne breakouts, blisters, scarring, pigment changes, and skin sensitivity. Adhere closely to your doctor’s aftercare instructions to minimize risks.

Number of Treatments

Multiple treatments spaced out over weeks or months are usually needed for best results, especially with non-ablative lasers. Improvement is gradual over a course of treatments.

Sun Protection

Strict sun avoidance and broad spectrum sunscreen are vital before and after laser resurfacing when your skin is highly vulnerable to sunburns and pigmentation.

Benefits of Laser Resurfacing

When performed correctly, laser skin resurfacing offers dramatic improvement for aging, sun-damaged, and scarred skin. Benefits include:

• Smoothes fine lines and wrinkles
• Treats acne scars and pitted scars
• Evens out skin tone and texture
• Tightens loose, sagging skin
• Reduces enlarged pores
• Fades dark spots and discoloration
• Improves photodamage and signs of aging
• Removes precancerous lesions
• Stimulates new collagen production
• Rejuvenates dull, tired skin

Laser resurfacing achieves significant improvements not possible with topical products alone. However, the treatment requires proper technique and care for safe, successful results.

What to Expect During Laser Resurfacing

Here is a step-by-step overview of what typically occurs during a laser skin resurfacing treatment:

1. Skin cleansing - The skin is thoroughly cleaned and prepped for treatment.
2. Eye protection - Protective eye shields or glasses are worn.
3. Topical anesthetic - A numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort.
4. Laser treatment - The practitioner guides the laser handpiece over treatment areas.
5. Soothing gel - A cooling gel is applied to soothe skin after treatment.
6. Moisturizer and SPF - Moisturizer and broad spectrum sunscreen are applied.
7. Repeat sessions - Additional treatments every few weeks may be recommended for optimal results.

The procedure typically takes less than an hour depending on the size of the treatment area. Lasers are adjustable to tailor settings and penetration depth based on your skin.

Recovery and Aftercare

Laser resurfacing recovery time varies depending on the depth of treatment. Proper aftercare is crucial to healing and preventing complications.

Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Ablative laser recovery lasts 1-2 weeks. Side effects like oozing, swelling, redness, and crusting are common. Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously for wound care and recovery:

• Cleanse skin gently. Do not scrub.
• Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
• Use moisturizer to hydrate skin.
• Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
• Keep treatment areas moist but allow crusts to naturally fall off.
• Avoid direct sun exposure.
• Protect skin with sunscreen, hats, and clothing outside.
• Wait until skin has fully healed before applying makeup.

Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Non-ablative laser recovery is shorter with less downtime. Typical aftercare may involve:

• Redness and swelling for 2-5 days.
• Use cool compresses to soothe skin.
• Moisturize skin regularly as directed.
• Avoid direct sun exposure.
• Resume regular skincare after several days.

Results from non-ablative treatment are gradual over weeks and months as the dermal collagen and elastin regenerates. Multiple treatments are usually recommended for desired outcomes.

Takeaways on Laser Resurfacing Treatments

• Laser resurfacing uses laser energy to smooth skin and treat signs of damage and aging.
• A variety of laser systems can be used including CO2, erbium, and Nd:YAG lasers.
• It improves wrinkles, scars, sun spots, skin laxity, texture, and more.
• Ablative lasers involve more downtime but significant results.
• Non-ablative treatments have minimal downtime but more gradual improvements.
• Proper patient selection, provider expertise, and aftercare are vital.

When researching laser resurfacing, consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine whether you are a good candidate. If you are considering a laser resurfacing procedure, select an experienced provider and facility with extensive training on the specific laser equipment used.

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.