If you are seeking an effective procedure that can improve your skin, including acne scars, sagging skin, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and other similar issues, laser skin resurfacing can help.
What is Laser Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing entails using a laser that sends out pulses of high-energy light that is then absorbed by water and substances in the skin. The laser light and heat produced by the laser essentially destroys or vaporizes tiny sections of the layers of the skin. When the treated area heals, new skin replaces the damaged skin that was destroyed by the laser.
Skin resurfacing with the use of lasers is considered to be very precise and won’t damage surrounding tissue and skin. While the laser procedure is most often performed on the face, it can be used on other areas of the body. However, the neck, chest, and hands are not usually treated with lasers, as skin in these areas tend to scar and/or thicken.
There are several different types of laser resurfacing treatments. The carbon dioxide or CO2 laser and the erbium laser are the most common types used.
There are also several newer laser techniques that offer fewer complications, along with quicker recovery times. These procedures include:
- Plasma skin resurfacing — This treatment uses plasma energy to destroy the lower layers of skin. It does not affect the top layer of skin, which will then protect the treated skin as it heals.
- Fractional laser resurfacing — This resurfacing technique treats microscopic areas of skin, leaving the treated area surrounded by untreated skin. This results in improvements in the skin with less bleeding and/or scabbing.
- Superficial erbium:YAG — This is a mild laser treatment that works best for minor wrinkles.
- Infrared laser resurfacing — This method targets the deeper skin layers with heat to tighten the skin.
Most of these different laser-resurfacing procedures are quick and relatively pain free. Usually a numbing cream is applied to the area to alleviate any possible discomfort.
Clients usually will see improvements after a single treatment; however, results that are more dramatic will be experienced after additional treatments.
Possible side effects are minimal. Patients may experience redness or swelling.
Dr. Thomas Wright, medical director at Laser Lipo and Vein Center says, “We see great results with laser skin resurfacing. We consider it one of the most effective ways for patients to achieve the skin improvements they seek.”
If you are interested in knowing more about laser resurfacing, give us a call to set up a no-obligation, complimentary consultation.
