Best Skin Resurfacing Treatment
Laser skin resurfacing is an effective way to help minimize the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other blemishes in addition to tightening the skin and achieving a balanced tone. The below article will review key information and frequently asked questions regarding laser skin resurfacing treatments.
1. When to have laser skin resurfacing performed?
Autumn is considered to be laser season. This is due to the fact that laser-treated skin is extremely sensitive when it is exposed to the sun for up to a year. Many cosmetic surgeons suggest that patients undergo laser resurfacing treatments during the fall or winter months as daytime hours are reduced and most patients spend less time outside in the sun.
No matter when you have the laser procedure performed, it is important to wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day and reapply often. In addition to maintain optimal results, the sunscreen also provides you with protection against skin cancer and helps to prevent additional effects of skin aging.
2. Laser resurfacing treatments and pain:
It is common for patients and doctors to compare the sensation which is felt during laser treatments to the snapping of a rubber band against the skin. The feeling of laser resurfacing, however, depends on factors such as the laser, the depth and specific area being treated, and the patient’s ability to tolerate pain.
During deeper laser treatments, local anesthetic injections or intravenous sedation may be needed to ensure the patient is comfortable.
Once the procedure is complete, patients should expect some amount of tenderness in the area which was treated. The provider will recommend safe and effective methods for controlling any discomfort following the laser resurfacing.
3. Darker skin and laser resurfacing:
One popular misconception is that laser resurfacing can only be performed on people with lighter skin. While some types of lasers pose a higher risk for cell damage or discoloration in people with darker skin, there are other resurfacing options which are both safe and effective. For African Americans with lighter-toned skin, or Hispanic and Asian patients, Erbium laser resurfacing may be a good solution and involve less risk for discoloration. Patients with a darker brown or black skin may need to consider alternative skin resurfacing options including radio-frequency treatments or microneedling.
In order to ensure a safe and effective outcome, is important to consult with a provider who has the proper training and knowledge in laser resurfacing procedures in addition to experience in working with patients who have darker skin.
4. Laser skin resurfacing treatment provider:
When performed by a well-trained and skilled professional, laser resurfacing is an effective method which can dramatically improve the appearance of your skin. Lasers can be ineffective or even dangerous when the treatment is performed by an unqualified or improperly trained provider. It is important to do you research and select a laser resurfacing provider based their experience, training, and qualifications.
5. Medications, health conditions and laser treatment
It is critical to be honest and transparent with your provider regarding your medical history and any medications or supplements you take. For example, if you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters, laser treatments can induce these types of outbreaks. Acne medications that contain isotretinoin, such as Accutane, can result in poor healing or even scarring from laser resurfacing. Popular over-the-counter products including aspirin can increase your risk for bleeding after the procedure.
Chronic conditions such as diabetes can impact the safety and outcome of laser resurfacing. Patients should stop smoking at least two weeks before and after their laser treatments in order to avoid negative complications and to achieve the optimal outcome.
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