Guide to Laser Skin Treatment Machines, Procedures, Results and More

A Complete Guide to Skin Laser Treatment Machines and Procedures for Healthier, Younger-Looking Skin

Laser skin treatments canhelp reduce signs of aging, skin damage, acne scars, sun spots, and more. With so many different laser options available, it can be difficult to determine which type of laser treatment and machine is best for your skin concerns. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the various laser treatment machines, procedures, and factors to consider before undergoing laser skin resurfacing.

How Do Laser Skin Treatments Work?

Laser treatment machines direct concentrated beams of light at irregularities and problem areas on the skin. The light energy is absorbed by water and other chromophores (color absorbing molecules) in the skin. This absorbed energy converts to heat, which destroys or reshapes targeted cells and tissues.

Different types of lasers are attracted to different chromophores. This allows the lasers to selectively target structures in the skin with precision. Lasers can remove outer layers of skin, tighten deeper tissues, or destroy blood vessels, pigment, and acne bacteria.

Benefits of Laser Skin Treatments

Laser skin treatments offer many benefits:

• Improve sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines
• Smooth rough skin texture
• Reduce acne scars
• Fade age spots and pigment issues
• Erase vascular lesions like spider veins
• Tighten loose, sagging skin
• Minimal downtime in many cases

Types of Laser Skin Treatment Machines

There are many different laser treatment machines available. The most common options include:

Ablative Lasers

Ablative lasers remove thin outer layers of skin. This allows new, smooth tissue to grow back in its place. Examples:

• CO2 laser: The original ablative resurfacing laser. Penetrates deeper into skin than other lasers.
• Erbium laser: Less penetration than CO2 laser. Causes less swelling and redness.

Non-Ablative Lasers

These lasers treat skin issues without removing outer layers. Examples:

• Nd:YAG laser: Effective for pigment issues and deeper tissues.
• Pulsed dye laser (PDL): Targets redness, scars, blood vessels.
• Alexandrite laser: Removes hair, leg veins, and tattoos.

Fractional Lasers

Fractional lasers deliver light in tiny columns, leaving healthy tissue around them intact. This speeds healing. Examples:

• Fractional CO2 laser: Combines power of ablative laser with faster healing.
• Fractional Erbium laser: Less downtime than fractional CO2 laser.

How to Choose the Right Laser for Your Skin

Consider these factors when choosing a laser skin treatment:

• Skin type and tone - Darker skins have higher risk of discoloration.
• Area being treated - Thinner skin needs gentler laser.
• Skin concerns - Match laser wavelength to target structures.
• Downtime - Ablative lasers require longer recovery.
• Number of treatments needed - Deep issues may need multiple sessions.
• Cost - Ablative lasers tend to be more expensive.

Most Common Laser Skin Treatments

Some of the most popular laser skin treatments include:

Laser Skin Resurfacing

This treatment removes outer layers of damaged skin, promoting new collagen growth. It can treat sun damage, scars, wrinkles, and pigment issues. Ablative and fractional lasers are commonly used.

Laser Skin Tightening

Non-ablative lasers like Nd:YAG gently heat deeper dermal layer, stimulating collagen production. Results include firmer, more youthful skin.

Vascular Laser Treatment

Lasers like PDL target blood vessels to eliminate facial spider veins, wine stains, cherry angiomas, and rosacea.

Laser Acne Scar Reduction

Ablative lasers remove damaged outer skin while promoting collagen regeneration. This smoothes and minimizes acne scarring.

Laser Tattoo Removal

Q-switched lasers target tattoo ink, breaking it into tiny fragments. Repeated sessions fade and ultimately erase tattoos.

Who Performs Laser Skin Treatments?

Laser skin procedures should only be performed by an experienced, licensed practitioner. Common providers include:

• Dermatologists
• Plastic surgeons
• Medical spas with licensed personnel
• Non-physician practitioners like PAs, RNs, and NPs (in some states)

Beware of unlicensed, unskilled operators offering laser treatments at bargain prices. This can result in burns, scarring, and disfigurement.

Preparing for Laser Skin Treatment

Here are some tips for preparing for your laser procedure:

• Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, self-tanners before treatment.
• Stop exfoliating products 1-2 weeks pre-treatment.
• Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant-rich foods.
• Have someone drive you home after treatment.
• Stock up on cooled moist washcloths, aloe, hydrocortisone.
• Keep schedule open for downtime needed.

Laser Skin Treatment Procedure

On treatment day:

• Arrive with clean skin - avoid makeup, lotions, etc.
• Protective eye shields will be provided.
• The laser handpiece will be gently glided over treatment areas.
• You may feel a warm sensation with each laser pulse.
• Your practitioner may apply cooling spray or gel to soothe skin.
• Treatment time depends on area size and type of laser used.

Laser Skin Treatment Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery time varies based on laser aggressiveness. General aftercare tips include:

• Use cold compresses to relieve swelling.
• Keep treated skin moisturized.
• Avoid direct sun exposure until healed.
• Let skin naturally peel - don't pick at flakes.
• Once healing begins, use sunscreen daily.
• Wait 1 month for chemical peels or microdermabrasion.
• See your practitioner if you experience excessive pain, oozing.

How Long Do Laser Skin Treatment Results Last?

Most patients enjoy visible improvements for several years after treatment. However, results are not permanent. Maintaining results involves:

• Consistent sunscreen use
• Healthy lifestyle habits
• Skin-supporting topicals like retinoids
• Repeat treatments as needed

The Takeaway on Laser Skin Treatments

When performed properly, laser skin treatments can rejuvenate aging, sun-damaged skin and treat many other concerns. Take time researching your options to find an appropriate, reputable provider. With reasonable expectations and proper aftercare, laser resurfacing can help you achieve revitalized, youthful skin.

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.