By Cosmetic treatments for skin issues have evolved massively in the last decade. There was a time when laser treatments were reserved for the elite, but things have changed. If you have cicatrices on your face, because of acne or similar skin issues, you can consider laser treatments. In most cases, deeper acne scars are treated through ablative laser skin resurfacing, which either relies on CO2 or erbium laser. Is laser skin resurfacing effective? In this post, we are answering some of the basic questions in detail.
How does laser skin resurfacing work?
Most laser skin resurfacing treatments work in a similar way, although the laser light and patented technologies may vary. The laser light works on the top layer of the skin, called the epidermis, and the depth of the treatment is dependent on whether ablative, or non-ablative laser, is used for the procedure. If you have minor acne scars, your aesthetician may first recommend in-clinic chemical peeling, but if the scars are deep and old, you may need laser treatments.
What about risks and side effects?
As with any cosmetic procedure, there are a few risks with laser skin resurfacing, at least with most lasers. Note that these risks are minimized considerably when an experienced dermatologist or aesthetician is working with the device. This is the precise reason why you should select a known and trusted clinic for such treatments. In general, you may notice some redness following laser skin resurfacing, and your skin can feel more sensitive. It is not rare to have minimal pain at the site of treatment. If you have rarer side effects, like high fever, call your doctor.
Things to note
Following laser skin resurfacing, you need to be extra cautious with your skincare regimen. Note that most people need at least a few sessions of the treatment to see a considerable difference in the skin condition, and there will be a gap of around five to six weeks between sessions. Also, you are required to use skincare products that are recommended, and not merely any drugstore product. Avoid sun exposure and smoking two weeks before the treatment, and ensure that you follow the guidelines, dos and don’ts after each session. The session shouldn’t take more than one hour, depending on the targeted area.
There is no denying that laser skin resurfacing is effective for acne scars and fine lines, but talk to a good dermatologist or visit a known clinic to understand more.
