Are you considering laser treatment for a skin condition? You may be wondering what to expect from the process. From smoothing out wrinkles to reducing pigmentation and removing unwanted hair, laser skin treatment can reward you with youthful skin without leaving permanent scars and marks.
While laser technology has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, there are still significant differences between the various types of lasers used in dermatology.
In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the most common laser treatments used in dermatology and explore their unique capabilities. Knowing everything about lasers and their actions is essential for planning and preparing for your next aesthetic skin treatment.
There are two popular types of skin lasers used in almost all cosmetic procedures. And different types of laser treatments classify under these two types. We know these types as ablative and non-ablative lasers.
These lasers are typically used in aggressive treatments for more severe skin issues, such as deep wrinkles, scars, or discoloration. These lasers involve removing the outer layer of skin to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall appearance of the skin. While ablative lasers may require a longer recovery time, they can provide more dramatic results.
These lasers are less invasive, and there is no removal of any skin tissue. Non-ablative lasers deliver energy to the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate the growth of collagen, which can help improve the texture and tone of the skin.
The treatments done using such lasers typically require little to no downtime and may be a better option for individuals who want to improve the appearance of their skin without undergoing a more invasive procedure.
Depending on the severity of your skin issues and goals, a professional dermatologist in Mission Viejo can recommend the right laser treatment for you. Contact Skincredible Dermatology, and book your appointment for an initial consultation.
Each skin laser technology has unique advantages and is used for a different purpose. Below we’ve explained the common technologies of skin lasers and what they are used for.
Broadband light BBL is an advanced laser technology that uses IPL or Intense Pulsed Light under a topical anesthetic to treat pigmentation issues like age spots, freckles, and sun damage.
BBL treatment for pigmentation uses a range of wavelengths of light to target the melanin in the same microscopic treatment zone, which absorbs the energy and is then eliminated by the body's natural processes. BBL also enhances skin color and tones, giving you healthy skin and a youthful look.
BBL laser treatment is effective for:
Another application of BBL laser is for painless hair removal. The laser targets the hair follicles with high-intensity light, causing them to stop growing without affecting the skin and surrounding areas. The best thing about BBL laser treatment for hair removal is long-lasting results and zero downtime.
BBL laser treatment can remove hair from:
HALO Laser is an innovative technology that’s taken skin resurfacing to another level. This hybrid fractional laser combines two different wavelengths of light to treat a wide range of skin concerns, including wrinkles, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and scarring.
The laser creates microscopic channels in the skin, stimulates the body's natural healing response, and promotes collagen production for natural-looking results.
HALO Laser treatment primarily corrects:
» More: Why HALO™ Laser Is a Viable Option for Healthy Aging
The choice of laser skin resurfacing treatment depends on a plethora of factors, and a dermatologist can recommend a suitable method after assessing your skin condition.
However, there are three popular laser treatments used widely to resurface skin without any damage or scarring.
This is the lightest laser resurfacing treatment that can eliminate fine lines and wrinkles in their initial stage. Since this is a light treatment, there is no intense downtime, and you can see visible results with the first session.
Wrinkles that surpass the initial stage require a strong laser for effective treatment. If your skin aging signs, such as wrinkles, qualify as medium to heavy, HALO treatment can resurface the skin for even tone and texture. You may also need an additional HALO treatment for deeper wrinkles.
For heavy wrinkles and bigger skin pores that need intense treatment, and care, ProFrac laser offers advanced skin resurfacing. The laser beam triggers your body’s natural response to repair the cells for increased collagen production. The recovery time can be longer than other laser resurfacing treatments because of severe skin conditions.
Laser skin treatments can provide a range of benefits, including improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and age spots. However, the process can vary depending on the type of laser treatment you choose.
Are you looking for a laser skin treatment to give your skin a younger feel again? Whether you’re the option for BBL to reduce pigmentation or HALO Laser for treating wrinkles, it’s important to know what happens before, during, and after the procedure.
The first stage of any laser skin treatment is consultation with a trained and licensed dermatologist in Mission Viejo. The doctor will evaluate your skin type and condition while understanding your skin goals and setting the right expectations from the treatment.
You’ll also get information about the total cost of the procedure and payment plans (if available).
The during phase primarily depends on the laser treatment you’re undergoing. However, there are some common similarities of every procedure, such as you’ll be provided with protective gear, and the provider will apply a topical numbing cream to your skin to minimize discomfort during the treatment.
Depending on the treatment and the severity of skin issues, a laser beam will be directed at the target area of your skin, emitting intense light energy.
The treatment usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the target area.
The after period of the treatment is the regenerative phase, and your provider may recommend using cold compresses or a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin and minimize discomfort.
Avoiding sun exposure and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF is important to keep your skin protected from severe damage.
Some patients also experience mild redness and swelling in the treated area, and the after-effects typically resolve within a few days after complete skin rejuvenation treatment.
In the days and weeks following the treatment, you should see an improvement in the skin texture and appearance, with a reduction in wrinkles, fine lines, and other imperfections. Depending on the extent of your skin condition, you may need multiple laser skin treatments to achieve optimal results.
Everyone has unique skin, and the same goes for skin goals! With numerous laser skin treatments available today, it can be difficult to choose what’s perfect for your needs. Here are some factors you must consider to get the right treatment done.
Do you want to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines? do you want to remove red and brown spots? The type of laser treatment will depend on your ultimate goals.
Book an appointment with a certified dermatologist in Mission Viejo who’s renowned for providing laser skin treatments for varying skin types. The dermatologist will evaluate your skin and goals to recommend the best treatments.
Every laser treatment is different, and their after-effects can also vary. For example, ProFrac resurfacing may have more downtime than LaseMD because both address different concerns and severity of issues. Additionally, some procedures may require you to undergo multiple treatments for visible results.
Try to learn about the downtime, potential side effects, and costs before choosing a laser treatment.
Want to get rid of those unwanted hairs or wrinkles that appear as you smile? Laser treatment for the face can help you get closer to revealing your most radiant and beautiful skin. No matter which procedure you choose, you’re on your way to rejuvenating your skin to restore youthfulness.
At Skincredible Dermatology, we are a team of expert dermatologists that use the best laser techniques and devices to help you achieve your skin goals safely.
Don't let uneven pigmentation hold you back from feeling confident in your skin. Contact Skincredible Dermatology today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our BBL treatment for redness or pigmentation and HALO skin resurfacing treatments can help you achieve smoother, more even-toned skin.
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