Laser skin resurfacing works by precisely removing skin layer-by-layer, giving way to more youthful looking skin beneath it. Laser resurfacing can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other blemishes as well as smooth and tighten skin and balance skin tone.
What are the Different Types of Laser Treatments?
There are several different types of laser skin treatments out there, since no one laser can treat all skin conditions. The two types we use most often here at Cape and Islands Plastic Surgery are CO2 lasers (Tetra CoolPeel) and fractional lasers (Fraxel Skin Resurfacing).
Tetra CoolPeel is a relatively new CO2 laser service that only targets the superficial layer of skin. By targeting the outermost layer of skin, patients do not have to worry about risk or downtime compared to previous CO2 lasers. Tetra CoolPeel works by removing the damaged skin tissue from the face. This causes collagen production which leaves the skin looking tighter, smoother, and healthier.
Fractional Lasers break up the laser energy into thousands of tiny beams to treat only a fraction of the skin in the area, which also reduces downtime. Fractional lasers can be ablative or non-ablative, and are used to treat a number of age-related blemishes. Here at CIPS, we use The Fraxel DUAL Wavelength System, which is a non-invasive laser therapy providing a wide array of treatment options to address many forms of aging, customized to each patient’s needs and concerns, and typically requires minimal recovery time.
When and How Often Should I get Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Did you know that autumn is considered “laser season”? That’s because laser-treated skin is hypersensitive to sun exposure for up to a year following some procedures, so undergoing laser resurfacing during fall or winter months, when daytime hours are shorter and you are spending more time indoors is ideal.
Regardless of what time of year you have your laser procedure, you’ll want to wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily and reapply as needed. This not only helps to keep your results looking their best, it also provides protection against skin cancer and helps prevent additional premature aging.
How many sessions you’ll need depends mostly on your skin condition and what you’re hoping to achieve. Since it can take up to a month for your skin to heal, patients who require multiple sessions typically limit their treatments to once every four weeks. We can help customize a treatment plan that’s right for you based on your individual goals.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
The two types of laser skin resurfacing mentioned above typically do not require a lot of downtime or recovery time. Most patients do not describe as painful however there may redness and a burning sensation similar to a sunburn directly following the procedure. A numbing cream is applied prior to Tetra CoolPeel treatment to help lessen the burn.
To decide which laser skin resurfacing is right for you – give us a call today to schedule your free consultation!
