Laser skin resurfacing has become a popular and excellent treatment to minimize age spots, wrinkles, and acne scars, balance skin tone, and tighten the skin. However, it can be challenging to research the treatment and know what to expect because of the different treatments and varying results.
Reserve Dermatology and Aesthetics, Glenview, IL, breaks down some essential tips to ensure you are informed without being overwhelmed:
Plan and Prepare
Experts consider fall the best laser season because of the reduced exposure to the sun. Laser-treated skin is usually hypersensitive to the sun, and that sensitivity can last up to a year after the procedure depending on the type.
Even with the minimum sun exposure in fall and winter, you should always have broad-spectrum sunscreen over SPF 30, reapplying as needed throughout the day. That helps prevent premature aging, protect your skin against cancer, and maintain the best long-term results.
It Might Be Painful
Doctors and many patients compare the feeling of the procedure with snapping a rubber band against the skin. However, the sensation depends on the target area, laser type, depth, and pain tolerance.
Deeper ablative treatments involve removing some outer skin layers, and you might require a numbing agent. The pain is not debilitating and will not delay recovery. You should ask about pain relief options before your appointment day.
Skin Resurfacing Works on Darker Skin
Some resurfacing treatment options are known to cause discoloration or hyperpigmentation. While this remains true, Reserve Dermatology and Aesthetics have a variety of effective and safe options for diverse skin colors.
Your Specialist Determines Your Results
Going to a highly-trained, experienced, and skilled professional ensures a safe and effective procedure with the best results. Therefore, when researching, compare different specialists’ training, qualifications, certifications, and experience. Choosing one with an American Board of Dermatology certification is best– which is why we recommend Dr. Damstetter to the people of Glenview, IL.
Some Conditions Or Medications Might Affect The Procedure And Results
Laser skin resurfacing might result in breakouts if you get fever blisters or cold sores, and smoking slows down your healing and recovery. During your consultation, be honest with your surgeon about any medications you had or currently have because they might affect your procedure’s success. Other things that might affect the results include acne medications with isotretinoin, aspirin, and diabetes.
There Are Different Lasers For Different Skin Types And Issues
- Alma Hybrid Laser– These are ablative lasers designed to treat scarring and uneven skin texture. This laser treatment is not ideal for pregnant mothers, or those prone to keloid scarring.
- Light and Bright Lasers– Combines the power of IPL with non-ablative lasers to treat pigmentations and textures by stimulating collagen.
- AviClear– An FDA-approved treatment is a great option for patients with severe acne scarring. AviClear is one of the safest resurfacing techniques for all skin types.
- Intense Pulse Light (IPL)– While these are not technically lasers, they treat the same conditions like hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne, and sun damage. IPL is designed to diminish pigment and therefore works best with lighter skin tones.
Plan Follow-Up Treatments
While some patients get the desired results after one appointment, most patients need a series of treatments to lengthen and maintain their results.
You Might Require Recovery Time Depending On The Treatment
Non-ablative lasers usually don’t require downtime. However, you might need two to three weeks to heal after ablative lasers because your skin will be red, raw, and scab over during healing. It would help the healing process to avoid things like swimming and working out during that downtime.
Deciding on a Specialist
With extensive experience and knowledge, Dr. Damstetter and her outstanding team at Reserve Dermatology and Aesthetics, Glenview, IL, will help you reach informed decisions about which procedure to have for the best results. Fill out the online contact form and book your appointment today.
