Laser Skin Treatments

Laser skin treatments offer some of the most effective ways to treat all manner of skin conditions, from uneven pigmentation to acne scarring. We take a look what is involved in a laser treatment, and what the differences are between the various varieties on offer.

Lasers: how they work

Collagen and elastin are the two proteins responsible for keeping your skin looking young, plump and supple. Unfortunately, as the years pass, these proteins begin to break down faster than they can be regenerated, leading to the signs of aging.

In recent years laser therapy has become one of the most effective ways to combat the signs of ageing. There are many types of lasers: Fraxel, CO2 and Erbium lasers are just a few. When lasers were first used for skin care and hair removal, they were more effective for people with dark hair and light skin, but recent technology has made them more effective for people of all skin and hair types.

Lasers work by emitting a laser beam that is then converted to heat and targeted towards the tissue area concerned. CO2 and Erbium lasers target water, and as skin has a high water content, the energy destroys the skin’s surface cells when it hits the targeted tissue, resurfacing the skin. The skin also shrinks and tightens as the collagen underneath is heated as well.

Fraxel lasers wok on a ‘fractional’ basis, targeting only a fraction of skin at a time, allowing the skin to heal more quickly. Fraxel treatments can vary a great deal in degree of intensity, as do the recovery times and number of treatments needed. For instance, for skin that has been severely damaged, a one-off Fraxel treatment can produce great results, but the downtime will be longer and post-treatment care necessary. For milder treatments there is usually no downtime and no need for post-treatment care.

What kind of skin treatments can I get with a laser?

Laser treatments are very effective for all kinds of problematic skin conditions. Acne scarring, uneven pigmentation, UV damage and sunspots, tattoo removal and reducing fine lines and wrinkles are all effectively treatment with lasers.

Also, because lasers are very effective at getting rid of dead layers of skin, they also improve the general health and vitality of your skin. Skin care products are more effective because you are not rubbing creams into dead layers of skin, and the skin can breathe more easily. Circulation is also improved.

If you are considering having laser treatments on your skin, make sure you know if there is any downtime and post-treatment follow up required before proceeding. Each treatment varies, so speak with your laser specialist for more information.