Laser resurfacing treatments are an advanced aesthetic procedure designed to improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. These treatments utilise laser technology to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and promote the growth of new, healthier skin. Let’s explore what skin resurfacing laser treatments are, how they work, their benefits, and what to expect during the process.
What is Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatment?
Laser resurfacing treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to target and remove the outer layers of skin, revealing the healthier skin beneath. There are two main types of lasers used in skin resurfacing:
1. Ablative Lasers:
Examples: CO2 lasers, Erbium lasers.
Function: Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of the skin, which is effective for treating deeper wrinkles, scars, and more severe skin damage. This process is known as ablative laser resurfacing. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is a common example of ablative laser resurfacing. They work by vaporising the top layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production during the healing process.
2. Non-Ablative Lasers:
Examples: Nd:YAG lasers, Fraxel lasers. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is another non-laser technique for skin treatment.
Function: Non-ablative lasers work by heating the underlying skin tissue without removing the outer layers. This type of laser is less invasive and requires less downtime, making it suitable for treating fine lines, minor scars, and pigmentation issues.
Benefits of Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments
Improved Skin Texture: Laser treatments smooth out rough skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Even Skin Tone: They help diminish pigmentation issues, including age spots, sun damage, and melasma.
Reduced Scarring: Effective in treating acne scars and other types of scarring by promoting new skin growth.
Increased Collagen Production: Stimulates the production of collagen, which enhances skin elasticity and firmness by encouraging the regeneration of skin cells.
What is the difference between laser skin resurfacing and non-laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing procedures and non-laser resurfacing are two distinct methods for improving skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Laser skin resurfacing utilises concentrated beams of light to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production, which can effectively treat wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation issues. It includes ablative lasers, like CO2 and Erbium lasers, which remove the outer skin layers, and non-ablative lasers, like Fraxel, which target deeper skin layers without damaging the surface.
In contrast, non-laser resurfacing methods include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and microneedling. Chemical peels use acid solutions to exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting new cell growth. Microdermabrasion mechanically exfoliates the skin using fine crystals or a diamond tip. Microneedling involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production. These non-laser techniques are generally less intense, have shorter recovery times, and are often used for milder skin concerns compared to laser treatments.
What is Fractional Skin Resurfacing Treatments
Fractional skin resurfacing is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure designed to improve the skin’s texture and appearance by targeting specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. Laser skin resurfacing is also known as laser peel. Unlike traditional laser resurfacing, which removes the entire top layer of skin, fractional skin resurfacing treats only a fraction of the skin at a time using microthermal treatment zones (MTZs). These microscopic columns penetrate deeply into the skin, promoting collagen production and leaving surrounding tissue intact, which facilitates faster healing and reduces downtime. There are two main types of fractional lasers: ablative lasers, such as CO2 and Erbium lasers, which remove the outer layers of skin, and non-ablative lasers, such as Fraxel, which target deeper skin layers without affecting the surface. This approach allows for significant improvements in skin texture and tone with fewer side effects and quicker recovery times compared to traditional methods.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Before and After
Laser skin resurfacing can significantly improve the appearance and texture of the skin, offering transformative results for those seeking to address various skin concerns. CO2 laser resurfacing, for example, has been used for years to treat wrinkles, scars, warts, and other skin conditions. Before the treatment, patients may have visible wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. The skin may appear aged, dull, and rough to the touch.
After the treatment, most patients experience noticeable improvements. The resurfaced skin typically looks smoother, firmer, and more youthful. Wrinkles and fine lines are reduced, acne scars are minimised, and overall skin texture and tone are enhanced. The production of new collagen and elastin contributes to these improvements, resulting in healthier and more resilient skin. Redness and swelling are common immediately following the procedure, but these side effects generally subside within a week to ten days.
It’s essential to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by the healthcare professional to ensure optimal healing and to protect the newly treated skin from sun exposure and other potential
What to Expect During Recovery
The recovery period varies depending on the type of laser used and the depth of the treatment:
Ablative Laser Recovery: Generally requires a longer recovery period, ranging from one to two weeks. Patients may experience redness, swelling, and peeling. CO2 laser treatments, for example, often have a recovery period of one to two weeks.
Non-Ablative Laser Recovery: Typically involves minimal downtime, with some redness and swelling that subsides within a few days.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Price
The cost of laser skin resurfacing on the Gold Coast can vary depending on the type of laser used, the area being treated, and the specific clinic. Here’s a general overview of the pricing:
1. CO2 Fractional Laser:
– Costs can range from AUD 550 to AUD 1,500 per session. This type of laser is highly effective for deeper skin issues like wrinkles, scars, and severe sun damage.
2. Erbium-YAG Laser:
Prices for treatments using erbium laser resurfacing typically start around AUD 800 per session. It is often used for milder skin conditions and offers quicker recovery times compared to CO2 lasers.
Conclusion
Skin resurfacing laser treatments offer a powerful solution for individuals looking to rejuvenate their skin and address various skin concerns. Whether dealing with wrinkles, scars, or pigmentation issues, laser technology can provide significant improvements, resulting in a smoother, more youthful complexion. If you are considering skin resurfacing, consult with a qualified practitioner to determine the best approach for your skin type and goals.