About Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing at The Derm Lounge Med Spa in Dallas, TX is a noninvasive aesthetic treatment that employs pulsating beams of energy to remove damaged skin cells layer by layer. The procedure is used to reduce deep facial wrinkles and lines and for diminishing skin irregularities such as pigmentation, acne scars, and other flaws. Sometimes referred to as a laser peel, laser skin resurfacing is considered an effective treatment for anyone who wants clearer, softer, and younger-looking skin. Based on the condition of the patient's skin, the treatment can be customized for optimal results. There is little recovery time associated with laser skin resurfacing treatments but this will be discussed further during the initial consultation with The Derm Lounge Med Spa.
Types of Laser Treatments
There are 3 types of laser skin resurfacing treatments that are selected depending on your skin goals. Some are performed for milder cases of skin damage, while others are more aggressive:
- Ablative Laser Treatments
Ablative lasers remove thin skin layers, similar to dermabrasion or a deep chemical peel, with a high level of control that permits the laser technician to minimize damage to the skin. Ablative lasers are ideal for skin tightening as well as removing acne scars and wrinkles. - Non-Ablative Laser Treatments
Non-ablative laser treatments don't remove the skin — the laser light simply creates micro-injuries to the skin cells to promote natural healing. Non-ablative treatments are best for removing wrinkles and fine lines on those who are willing to wait a few months to see strong results. - NanoFractional Laser Treatments
Fractional laser treatments are a combination of non-ablative and ablative that create tiny holes deep within the dermal layers. The body's natural healing process leads to tighter, firmer, and healthier skin. Fractional laser treatments can also be performed to treat fine lines, deep wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and uneven pigmentation.
Reviews
Ideal Candidates
There are many factors to consider when choosing which laser peel is best for you. Laser skin resurfacing is geared toward patients who are unsatisfied with their overall complexion. If you see sun-damaged skin, age spots, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation or redness issues, this procedure may help correct these imperfections. Also, it is wonderful if you have rough texture, scaly patches, or other skin surface problems. A laser peel isn't suggested for those with darker skin tones or active acne outbreaks. In addition, it's important to understand that there is a recovery period needed after laser therapy. Certain patients, based on their skin's condition, may require as much as 2 – 3 weeks to recover.
Procedure Techniques
If you are scheduled for a more intense or deeper laser peel, you may be given a topical retinoid for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser treatment. The retionoid helps prep the skin for maximum results. Medication may be given before the procedure to help reduce any pain so you can relax throughout your appointment. If your complexion only needs mild improvement, a local anesthesia may be applied to numb the target areas of the face. For the whole complexion or deeper laser procedures, a type of sedation may be necessary. Throughout the procedure, you can relax in our spa-like treatment chair while the laser handpiece passes over the skin, targeting exactly the designated areas for improvement. You may sense heat lessened by cool air from the system's built-in cooling device.
What to Expect
A Growth Factor is recommended to treat skin starting 1 day after your treatment, A heavy moisturizer is recommended for post peels or a post peel ointment. The treated skin may appear pink and there may be some swelling and irritation. These symptoms subside in a few days and the skin peeling will last over a 3 – 5 day period. For those who are undergoing a deeper laser peel, your downtime will take longer. The treatment sections may be protected with dressings and the burning, irritation, and/or swelling sensation may be reduced with over-the-counter pain medication. The downtime for a more intense peel may be several weeks. Every patient needs to limit their UV exposure following their laser treatment and use sun protection regularly. Regardless of the intensity of the peel, the treated skin will naturally crust, flake, and peel off. It's important to not hurry the recovery process to avoid both scarring and to shield your face from sun exposure. After the peeling is finished, the treated skin should feel smoother while also appearing rejuvenated, clearer, and younger.
Related Procedures
A Softer, Clearer Complexion
A laser skin resurfacing treatment offers outstanding results for those who are looking to obtain a more youthful appearance. If you are considering a laser peel and want to hear more information about their benefits, and about other nonsurgical options The Derm Lounge Med Spa has to offer, we encourage you to contact our office today.