The area around your mouth is one of the first places to show signs of aging. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity can develop due to repetitive facial movements, sun exposure, and the natural aging process. Perioral laser resurfacing is an advanced cosmetic procedure designed to target these specific concerns, helping you achieve smoother, more youthful skin around the mouth. In this blog, we’ll explore what perioral laser resurfacing is, how it works, and what you can expect from the procedure.
What is Perioral Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Perioral laser resurfacing is a targeted skin rejuvenation treatment that focuses on the area around the mouth, also known as the perioral region. Fractional laser treatment offers results similar to fully ablative procedures but with shorter recovery times and reduced side effects. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is a specific type of laser resurfacing used for this area. This area is prone to developing fine lines and wrinkles, often referred to as “smoker’s lines” or “lipstick lines,” which can give the face an aged appearance. Laser resurfacing works by using concentrated beams of light to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and promote the growth of new, healthy skin.
What are Perioral Lines/ smoker’s lines?
Perioral or “smoker’s lines” form due to a combination of factors, primarily aging, repetitive muscle movements, and environmental influences. As we age, the skin loses collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. This leads to thinning of the skin around the mouth, making it more prone to wrinkles. Repetitive muscle movements, such as pursing the lips, speaking, or smoking, can further deepen these lines over time. Smoking, in particular, accelerates the formation of these lines by reducing blood flow to the skin and damaging collagen, contributing to premature aging. Sun exposure and genetic factors can also exacerbate the development of perioral lines.
How Does Perioral Laser Resurfacing Work?
The procedure uses a laser device to deliver precise energy to the skin’s surface. There are two main types of lasers used for perioral resurfacing:
Ablative Lasers: These lasers, such as CO2 or Erbium lasers, remove the outer layers of the skin (epidermis) and heat the underlying skin (dermis). Ablative lasers vaporize tissue and are more aggressive, leading to significant skin improvements. This process stimulates collagen production, which helps to smooth out wrinkles and improve skin texture. Ablative lasers are more intense and generally provide more dramatic results but come with a longer recovery time. Ablative laser resurfacing often results in immediate physical reactions such as swelling and color changes, and requires careful post-treatment care.
Non-Ablative Lasers: Non-ablative lasers, such as fractional lasers, penetrate the skin without removing the outer layer. They target deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, leading to gradual improvements in skin tone and texture. Fractional lasers are less invasive, with shorter recovery times, but may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
Ablative laser treatment, particularly with CO2 lasers, is known for its efficacy in treating skin conditions, including skin cancers. However, it tends to be pricier compared to other laser options due to its more intensive nature. It is crucial to have such treatments performed by qualified professionals to minimise risks and improve outcomes.
Laser Resurfacing Technologies
Laser resurfacing technologies have revolutionised the field of cosmetic dermatology, offering a range of treatments for various skin concerns. These technologies can be broadly classified into two categories: ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) lasers, vaporise the top layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting skin rejuvenation. This process is particularly effective for treating deep wrinkles, scars, and other significant skin imperfections. On the other hand, non-ablative lasers, like fractional lasers, heat the underlying skin tissue without removing the top layers. This method stimulates collagen production more gently, leading to gradual improvements in skin tone and texture with minimal downtime. Fractional lasers, which can be either ablative or non-ablative, use a fractional approach to treat the skin, leaving healthy skin tissue intact to aid in the healing process. This innovative technique allows for faster recovery while still delivering impressive results in skin rejuvenation.
Benefits of Perioral Laser Resurfacing for Skin Rejuvenation
Perioral laser resurfacing offers several benefits for those looking to rejuvenate the skin around their mouth:
Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: The primary benefit of this procedure is the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Additionally, it can help reduce acne scarring.
Improved Skin Texture: Laser resurfacing can help even out skin texture by reducing roughness and irregularities in the skin surface. This procedure can also address signs of skin aging.
Enhanced Collagen Production: By stimulating the body’s natural collagen production, laser resurfacing helps to firm the skin and restore elasticity, contributing to a more youthful appearance. This benefit is crucial for facial rejuvenation.
Targeted Treatment: The procedure focuses specifically on the perioral area, making it an ideal option for those who are concerned about aging signs in this particular region without affecting the rest of the face.
Minimal Downtime: Depending on the type of laser used, the procedure can offer significant results with minimal downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities relatively quickly.
What to Expect During the Ablative Laser Treatment Procedure
Perioral laser resurfacing is typically performed in a doctor’s office. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
Consultation: Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with your doctor to discuss your goals, assess your skin type, and determine the most appropriate laser treatment for you.
Preparation: On the day of the procedure, the treatment area will be cleansed, and a topical anaesthetic may be applied to minimise discomfort. In some cases, a local anaesthetic or sedative may be used, especially if an ablative laser is being used.
Laser Treatment: The laser device is passed over the perioral area, delivering controlled pulses of energy to the skin. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of the treatment.
Cooling and Post-Treatment Care: After the procedure, cooling devices or cold compresses may be applied to soothe the skin. You will be given specific post-treatment care instructions, including how to care for your skin and what to avoid during the healing process. The treated skin may exhibit symptoms such as swelling and discoloration, so it is important to apply ointments and protect the area to promote healing and prevent infection.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery time for perioral laser resurfacing varies depending on the type of laser used:
Ablative Laser Recovery: After treatment with an ablative laser, the skin will be red, swollen, and may feel like a severe sunburn. It is normal for the skin to peel and flake as it heals. Recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks, during which time you should avoid sun exposure, apply prescribed ointments, and follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions carefully. This procedure can also help improve eyelid skin laxity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and loose skin around the eyes.
Non-Ablative Laser Recovery: Non-ablative laser treatments have a shorter recovery period, with redness and swelling subsiding within a few days. The skin may feel dry and tight, but there is usually no peeling or flaking. You can typically return to normal activities within a day or two.
In both cases, it’s crucial to protect the treated area from the sun and avoid using harsh skincare products until your skin has fully healed.
Results and Longevity of Carbon Dioxide Laser Resurfacing
The results of perioral laser resurfacing are not immediate. As your skin heals and new collagen is produced, you will begin to see improvements in the texture and appearance of the skin around your mouth. Final results can be seen within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the treatment. Additionally, the procedure can provide long-term improvements for facial atrophic acne scars.
The longevity of the results depends on several factors, including your skin type, lifestyle, and the type of laser used. Maintaining a good skincare routine, including regular use of sunscreen, can help prolong the benefits of the treatment.
Risks and Side Effects of Skin Laser Resurfacing
Skin laser resurfacing for smoker’s lines, while effective, carries certain risks and potential side effects. These include:
Redness and Swelling: After the procedure, the treated area may become red and swollen, lasting from a few days to several weeks.
Infection: There’s a small risk of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, especially if post-procedure care is not followed properly.
Scarring: Though rare, improper healing or an aggressive treatment can lead to permanent scarring, particularly if the skin is sensitive.
Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation: The procedure may result in darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation) of the skin, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
Prolonged Healing: Depending on the depth of the laser resurfacing, recovery time can vary. Deeper treatments may take several weeks or months to fully heal.
Changes in Skin Texture: In some cases, the skin might develop an uneven texture post-procedure.
Cold Sores Reactivation: If you are prone to herpes simplex virus (cold sores), the procedure can trigger an outbreak around the lips.
Prolonged Redness or Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience prolonged redness or skin sensitivity, particularly to sunlight
Is Perioral Laser Resurfacing Right for You?
Perioral laser resurfacing is an excellent option for those who want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, improve skin texture, and achieve a more youthful appearance without undergoing invasive surgery. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and recovery involved. Dermal fillers can also be used as an alternative or complementary treatment for perioral rhytides, addressing age-related volume loss and stimulating collagen production.
Ideal candidates for perioral laser resurfacing are individuals with fair to medium skin tones who are in good overall health. Those with darker skin tones may be at higher risk for hyperpigmentation or scarring and should consult with a dermatologist to discuss alternative treatments.
Conclusion
Perioral laser resurfacing is a highly effective treatment for rejuvenating the skin around the mouth, reducing signs of aging, and enhancing your overall appearance. With proper care and maintenance, the results of this procedure can be long-lasting, helping you feel more confident and refreshed.
If you’re considering perioral laser resurfacing, it’s essential to consult with an experienced doctor to determine the best approach for your skin type and goals. At Parkwood Skin Clinic, we offer personalised consultations and advanced laser treatments to help you achieve the youthful, radiant skin you desire. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how perioral laser resurfacing can benefit you.