Understanding Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing offers a way to refresh dull or damaged skin surfaces using precision light energy. Specialized lasers remove outer layers to improve tone, texture, fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, and more.
If considering laser resurfacing procedures to enhance your complexion, an abundance of options now exist. Learn what different devices can treat before choosing an experienced laser clinic and practitioner near you.
How Laser Skin Resurfacing Works
Laser devices direct highly concentrated wavelengths of light at irregularities in the skin's epidermal and dermal layers. The light gets converted to heat energy, which vaporizes delicate outer skin to reveal newer cells underneath.
The removal action also triggers collagen and elastin production in underlying skin for tighter, smoother, more even-toned results post-healing. Reduced pigmentation, refined pores, and glow boosting are further benefits.
Candidates for Laser Resurfacing
Good candidates for laser skin renewal include people wish to improve:
- Fine lines around eyes and mouth
- Crow's feet wrinkles
- Dull, uneven complexion
- Sun spots and skin discoloration
- Acne pits and scarring
- Large facial pores
Those with very sensitive skin, ongoing acne, or recent isotretinoin use may not be suitable for laser procedures until conditions stabilize. Discuss options fully during consultations.
Types of Skin Laser Treatments
Many options exist for laser skin enhancement. The most common categories include:
Ablative Lasers
Ablative lasers deliver concentrated beams that penetrate below the epidermis to remove skin cells. This fully resurfaces facial and body areas:
- CO2 laser The gold standard for reducing deep lines/wrinkles
- Erbium laser Precision targeting of finer lines and superficial pigment
The lengthy healing process involves oozing and several weeks of redness. Yet results surpass gentler lasers.
Fractional Non-Ablative Lasers
These systems concentrate treatment beams into tiny columns that treat and spare skin areas simultaneously. Examples include:
- Fraxel Laser The first fractional laser for resurfacing with minimal downtime
- Clear + Brilliant A gentler fractional approach for gradual effects
Although scattered microscopic wounds heal quicker, results accumulate slowly over a course of treatments.
Non-Ablative Vascular Lasers
These target hemoglobin in dilated capillaries to reduce redness and flushing without damaging surface layers:
- PDL vascular laser The leading choice for rosacea and facial veins
- Nd:YAG laser Penetrating infrared wavelengths for deeper vessels
Low downtime comes with gradual improvements to diffuse red skin tones over 2 to 5 sessions.
What to Expect During Treatment
The steps involved in facial rejuvenation lasers may include:
Protective Eye Shields
Shaped metal eye covering or opaque goggles ensure complete eye protection.
Topical Numbing
Prescription lidocaine creams or injected nerve blocks diminish discomfort during treatment.
Careful Laser Passes
Your provider aims pulses of light over entire facial zones to evenly treat surface irregularities and spur new collagen.
Soothing Gel Application
Cooling gel packs get applied to skin post-procedure to calm redness and prevent blistering side effects.
Healing Balms and Bandages
Antibiotic creams and protective dressings help protect resurfaced skin and prevent infections.
Choosing a Laser Skin Clinic
A reputable laser clinic staffed by qualified professionals should offer:
Licensed Providers
All laser technicians and supervising physicians should hold active licenses without practice restrictions or disciplinary history.
Numerous Treatment Options
Established offices feature an array of laser and energy devices to customize plans to each patients specific needs.
Proven Safety Protocols
Facilities should detail standards for machine calibrations, staff certifications, emergency procedures, infection prevention, and follow-up policies.
Before and After Galleries
Reputable clinics provide images of actual patients showcasing improvements from various laser procedures.
Taking time to vet area laser skin care providers ensures you get procedures customized for realistic, lasting improvements by qualified professionals.
FAQs
How long is the recovery from laser skin resurfacing?
Ablative laser recovery takes up to 6 weeks. Fractional laser recovery is shorter at 5-7 days. Non-ablative vascular laser downtime is minimal with instant results.
Does laser skin tightening really work?
Yes, by removing outer layers and spurring collagen growth, lasers effectively tighten and smooth loose, wrinkled facial skin. Multiple treatments provide longer-term tightening.
How much does full face laser treatment cost?
Full face ablative CO2 laser resurfacing typically costs $2,000 to $4,000 while fractional laser sessions average $500 to $1,500 per treatment.
What should I avoid after laser skin resurfacing?
Avoid sun, makeup, sweating, swimming, hot showers, harsh products, picking, and scratching during the healing phases for about 1-6 weeks depending on laser type.
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.
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