Laser skin resurfacing is a type of cosmetic procedure. This technique is used to correct the skin problems such as scars, discoloration, wrinkles, and pigmentation. This article provides some information about this treatment technique.
Every person, especially women, wishes to have supple, clean, and blemish-free skin. However, due to the continuous exposure to harmful sunrays and pollution, one’s delicate facial skin may get affected by various problems such as wrinkles, pigmentation, scars, or discoloration. At times, such skin problems could develop a low self-esteem in some individuals. Therefore, one would want a proper treatment for these skin problems. There are several treatment options for facial rejuvenation procedures such as chemical peels, botox injections, face-lifts, and dermabrasion. Laser skin resurfacing is the latest technique to correct these minor skin problems and thus, makes one’s skin look younger and healthier.
Any healthy person who wants to get relief from skin problems can opt for this treatment technique. This procedure is also suitable for those with birthmarks and minor or medium acne scars. Furthermore, it also aids in the removal of unwanted hair and tattoos. Depending on the type of resurfacing, a person may be required to attend several treatment sessions. People having lighter skin and who avoid sun exposure after undergoing this procedure, tend to obtain best results. Whereas, those with a darker skin tone may also benefit, however, they might experience pigment changes resulting from the treatment and their skin may not heal as well. Hence, this treatment is generally not recommended for people having darker skin.
Types of Lasers
Several types of lasers are available for this treatment. Depending upon the skin type, the most suitable one would be selected for the treatment. N-Lite is a wonderful treatment that is believed to cause no damage to skin. Also, it does not require anesthesia and it has less recovery time. However, it is considered to be least effective in the elimination of lines, wrinkles, and spots.
Erbium is another type of laser, which is effective for discoloration and mild to moderate wrinkles. It causes the complete elimination of fine lines and shows a significant improvement in dynamic wrinkles. CO2 laser is the most invasive procedure that is believed to provide best results for lines, wrinkles, and discoloration by removing more skin layers. One can opt for any type of laser that would suit each one’s requirement and budget.
Skin Rejuvenation
Laser skin resurfacing is conducted under local anesthesia in order to rejuvenate facial skin, remove shallow scars and fine lines, stimulate growth of new collagen, and reduce wrinkles. These skin lasers offer younger-looking skin by burning away the outer layer of skin. It also acts on deeper layers of skin to stimulate growth of new collagen. This treatment can be used for areas all over the face or any specific area on the face. Aging is the main factor for the development of wrinkles and lines. Other factors that contribute to the same are diet, exposure to sun for longer time, and smoking.
Before one undergoes this treatment, it is necessary to look for a skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Once the surgeon is opted for, he/she would select the type of laser considering different factors like skin type, severity of skin problems, and the area to be corrected. At the time of the procedure, special goggles would be provided for the protection of one’s eyes.
During this procedure, laser light touches only a fraction of the individual’s skin. First, the facial skin is washed and then, a numbing gel would be applied to the skin. Next, the surgeon would apply a water-soluble tint over the numbing gel. This would help the surgeon to identify the contour lines that are present on the face. Then, the skin to be rejuvenated is hit with numerous small laser spots. These tiny spots remove acne scars, sunspots, wrinkles, melasma, sun damaged skin, and hyperpigmentation. Also, this technique helps to get rid of uneven skin tone. However, these changes require gradual and meticulous treatment.
As the application of laser warms the facial skin, a special cooling device would be used to prevent the skin from becoming too hot. This technique can make the skin feel smoother, softer, and appear more youthful. It is a result of the fractionated nature of this treatment, that there is a retention of some healthy skin cells which aid in healing of the cells hit by the laser.
If a small part of facial skin such as wrinkles, that are present around the areas of the eyes or mouth are to be treated, then it would take about half an hour. If the entire face is to be treated, then it may require about one and half to two hours. Older people usually require entire face resurfacing which is rarely observed in the younger ones. Since laser skin treatment is conducted under local anesthesia, one would be able to return home within a short time after the treatment. Cosmetic surgeons usually recommend 3-5 resurfacing treatments in one or two week’s period.
Aftercare
Following the treatment, the body would enhance the supply of blood into facial skin so that the damaged skin gets healed earlier. The individual on treatment may have pinkish facial skin for about 5-7 days. In case of treatment for wrinkles around the eyes, the individual may experience temporary swelling of eyelids. Also, varying amounts of flaking of the facial skin may be experienced by one for a few days, after this treatment. However, applying a moisturizer can hide the flaking.
Besides a moisturizer, those who have undergone this procedure, need to apply sunscreen twice a day in order to protect their skin. If one experiences discomfort or swelling, then one can apply ice packs and take medications that are prescribed by the surgeon. If a bandage is applied after the procedure, it should be replaced after one or two days. After a week, when the bandage is removed, one should apply a thin layer of ointment. It is necessary to take extreme care of one’s healing facial skin.
Possible Complications and Risks
This procedure is believed to be quite safe and comfortable. Also, it is considered to give rise to very few complications. Some possible complications are skin burning, discoloration, or scarring. However, in some rare cases, dormant viruses or infections may get triggered. Although the effects of aging can be corrected using this technique, the aging process cannot be prevented or stopped. Moreover, the problems of discoloration, wrinkles, and other imperfections may reappear after few years.
In today’s highly competitive world, one needs to approach the present scenario with full confidence and an impressive personality. Thus, one can opt for this treatment technique which might prove beneficial to achieve the desired results. However, it is always better to consult the concerned doctor to rule out the possibility of complications that could occur due to the treatment.
