WHAT IS LASER RESURFACING?
Laser resurfacing is also known as laser peeling, laser skin rejuvenation, and lasabrasion. It is a method used to reduce wrinkles, scars, and blemishes on the face and upper body. Generally, laser resurfacing is done on the skin of the face, hands, neck, and chest, as these are the areas that tend to age more quickly due to exposure to the sun.
There are two main categories of laser resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. Depending on the kind of laser used, the results of your procedure will be slightly different.
WHAT DOES LASER RESURFACING DO?
Did you know that “laser” is actually an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission or radiation”? In other words, laser resurfacing uses concentrated beams of light that are adjusted to suit your skin’s color and texture. There are a variety of applications for lasers in skincare, but it all more or less works the same way.
Lasers are hot, and when that heat penetrates the surface of the skin, it induces a reaction after removing cells from the targeted region. Your skin begins to produce collagen and elastin to heal the micro-injuries created by the heat.
Ablative lasers cause more dramatic results, but they require more downtime. Non-ablative measures are far more gentle, breaking down irregularities in the skin, such as fine lines or wrinkles.
In some cases, CO2 laser resurfacing and IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments are also utilized.
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BENEFITS OF LASER RESURFACING
There are many benefits to laser skin resurfacing, including:
- Reducing the appearance of redness, brown spots, and uneven pigmentation
- Eliminating fine lines and wrinkles
- Improving the appearance of scars, including surgical and acne scars
- Promoting collagen production
- Reducing enlarged pores
- Diminishing prominent blood vessels, including spider veins
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING LASER RESURFACING
Every laser resurfacing done at DrSkin is a unique experience that is designed by our technicians to suit your aesthetic goals. We precisely target whatever you are trying to treat. In some cases, you may be required to use a topical or oral medication prior to your procedure to ensure the best results. Other medications will need to be paused.
On the day of your laser resurfacing treatment, you will get checked in and prepped by caring members of the DrSkin team. You will receive protective goggles to protect your eyes from the laser. Once comfortable, the technician will come in with a handheld device that is used to target various layers of skin.
Depending on the laser or method used, different layers of skin may be targeted throughout the procedure. A combination of lasers may also be used to effectively deal with wrinkles, age spots, and other blemishes. Once the procedure is done, an emollient will be applied to your skin, and you will be given precise aftercare instructions to follow.
IS THERE ANY DOWNTIME?
The amount of recovery time needed depends on a couple of things. Non-ablative methods tend to have a much shorter recovery period. Immediately following the treatment, you will be able to return to your daily life without any issues. There may be some swelling and redness, but that disappears quickly.
On the other hand, the downtime for ablative laser resurfacing is much longer. The side effects (exudation, swelling, sloughing, and redness) of the treatment last longer, and you will need to apply ice packs to the skin regularly. It takes about two weeks to heal from ablative laser resurfacing.
For any laser resurfacing, be sure to use moisturizer and sunscreen after your treatment to prevent sun damage.
WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS FROM LASER RESURFACING?
Although you will notice a difference in your skin right away, results will take some time to develop. If you receive resurfacing with a non-ablative laser, the results will be noticeable more sooner than ablative results, but non-ablative methods are less dramatic. Keep in mind that light therapies are changing your skin from the inside out, at the cellular level, meaning that your skin will improve over time. The best results will be seen several months post-treatment and last for a long while.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR LASER RESURFACING?
Light therapy is extremely versatile. Modern laser resurfacing treatments are available for all skin colors and types. However, those with darker skin tones are at an increased risk for scarring. Speak with your DrSkin technician about any scarring you may have, as we can customize the laser settings or provide you with other treatment options that are just as effective.
Some conditions do make you ineligible for laser resurfacing, including pregnancy and active skin or viral infections.
SAY BYE-BYE TO GORGEOUS SKIN FROM THE INSIDE OUT FAT FOR GOOD
Ready for smoother, healthier skin? Laser resurfacing is a highly effective treatment that induces natural healing. You are going to love the way your skin looks and feels. The highly qualified and caring team at DrSkin is here to help. We will discuss the possibilities of laser resurfacing with you and craft a thorough care plan for an incredible experience. Book your consultation today to learn more.
