What Patients Should Know When Using Laser Therapy to Treat Wrinkles

Laser therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat a myriad of skin concerns. It is also FDA-cleared procedure. There are many different types of lasers that are most commonly used to remove unwanted skin issues. Ablative lasers remove the top layer of skin and some of the sub-layer, while non-ablative lasers do not remove the outer layer of skin and require very little recovery time. During the laser therapy process,concentrated beams of pulsating light are focused on the problem areas and deep wrinkles, precisely penetrating or removing outer layers of the skin.

Using Laser therapy for deep and fine wrinkles is a highly common and effective method to enhance the youthful appearance of the skin. The laser therapy helps renew the skin through cell turnover and in turn enhances collagen production as well as elastin production. Collagen and elastin are vital proteins found connective tissues that allow the skin to bounce back.This process of laser therapy to remove outer layers of skin and enhance the producing of elastin and collagen results in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, while smoothing out the skin for a youthful complexion.

Often times wrinkles are associated with sun damage, broken blood vessels, unwanted hair, acne scars, and other undesired skin blemishes. Laser Therapy is beneficial in diminishing the appearance of many, if not all, of these skin problems as well. Because of its many effective treatments laser therapy for wrinkles and other skin problems has become one of the most popular treatments.

So how do you know if you are a good candidate for laser therapy for wrinkles or other unwanted blemishes? If you have noticeable fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, mild acne scars, or noticeable unwanted hair, you are very likely a candidate for laser therapy to diminish their appearance. In fact, most people with mature or aging skin will see a dramatic difference in the smoothness and youthfulness of their skin. Laser therapy patients however should avoid the sun for several weeks after treatment as the skin will be sensitive. Sensitivity will vary greatly depending on the type of laser used and intensity of the treatment. In fact, the term 'laser season' for the fall and winter months is used because the low sunlight months are an ideal time to have the procedure done. Most patients, however, experience low amount of down time and are back to their daily lives within a couple days to a week.

As with any medical procedure, always be upfront with you doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking, as well as any medical conditions you have. Some medications and medical issues can affect the healing time and results.

Never undergo any laser therapy without speaking to a licensed dermatologist and certified laser therapy center. All providers must have a license and be approved by one of the 3 laser certification organizations.

Common types of cosmetic lasers include:

Ablative Lasers:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2)
• Erbium

Non-Ablative Lasers

• Pulsed Dye Laser
• Nd: Yag Laser
• Alexandrite Laser
• Light-Based Treatments