Cosmetic Laser Treatments

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Did you know that despite our struggling economy, the number of laser skin care treatments has risen 270% in the last decade? It seems like we are willing to pay higher costs for services that have a strong track record for improving wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, loose skin, and vascular problems. Let's look at some of the most effective laser treatments available from your local physicians and medical spas.

All laser treatments are measured based on the depth of penetration into the skin, which is dependent on the wavelength of the laser. The goal is to quickly send the pulse of the laser into the skin, allow it to hit its target, and then cool before damage is done to the surrounding tissue.

These are some of the most commonly used devices.

  1. IPL lasers and Nonablative (or "cold") lasers work within the wavelengths of 400 to 1064 nm and do not require any downtime. You can achieve benefits for dark pigmentation, skin tightening, and reduction of visible blood vessels with very minimal recovery time. These treatments are usually advertised as helping with skin rejuvenation because they stimulate collagen production.
  2. Ablative and fractional lasers provide more substantial benefit for anti-aging treatments and they can require significant time to heal. The water in the skin is rapidly boiled, which vaporizes skin cells. As new skin develops, it appears more youthful, firm, and less wrinkled. This service is essentially a controlled wound to the skin. Fractional lasers are very popular because they offer less risk and faster recovery.
  3. Ablative erbium YAG lasers are rapidly replacing the previously used carbon dioxide laser. Its intensity can be adjusted based on your needs and it does not burn the skin. It is more precise than its predecessor and the healing takes 3-7 days. The treatment is excellent for all areas of anti-aging and scar removal.

While you are receiving these treatments, you will want to regularly exfoliate the skin, consistently wear SPF every day, apply pigment lighteners, and use products with Vitamin K to strengthen the capillaries.

Here are some must-haves....

  1. Eminence Pear and Poppy Seed Microderm Polisher will buff away those dark areas between services as your pigmentation is being shed. Plus, it can be used long term even after you have finished with the laser treatments!
  2. ColorScience Sunforgettable SPF 30 in Almost Clear will protect sensitive skin from harmful UV exposure. Tanned or burned skin can't be safely treated with any laser. The built in brush allows for easy application and it can travel anywhere without making a mess.
  3. PRIORI Even Tones will provide pigment busting benefits with or without a laser treatment. It is safe to be used during a series of services and will minimize potential side effects.