Laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that seeks to rejuvenate your skin using laser energy. If you want the treatment, it is best to have Dr. John Freeman perform the procedure. You can expect your laser skin resurfacing treatment to address issues like uneven skin tone, texture problems, and wrinkles.
The laser energy uses heat to cause controlled micro damage to your dermis and force your body to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Recovery varies from one person to the other and depends on your specialist’s technology.
What does the procedure involve?
During the treatment, your specialist will use a handheld device to direct laser energy to specific parts of your skin. The process feels like skin tugging, but it will not be painful because your doctor will use a numbing agent to help you tolerate the treatment. After the treatment, your specialist will give instructions to help you recover.
Depending on your skin problems, your doctor will determine how many treatments you need for the best outcome. That said, sometimes one treatment is enough.
Types of laser treatments
There are two primary types of laser skin resurfacing treatments; ablative and non-ablative. The treatments vary depending on the technology used to deliver results. Your dermatologist will offer you treatment depending on your symptoms and the desired outcome.
Ablative treatments
Ablative laser skin resurfacing removes the skin’s outer layer and targets the dermis to deal with scarring, age spots, and sun damage. The treatment aims to encourage cell regeneration and improve skin tone and texture. It can also address severe cases like deep wrinkles or sagging.
The procedure requires more downtime than non-ablative treatments, so you should get a week off from work to encourage recovery. After the treatment, your specialist will apply a thick ointment to protect your skin as it renews itself. An example of an ablative treatment is CO2 laser skin resurfacing.
Non-ablative treatments
Non-ablative treatments leave the outer layer of skin intact and target the dermis to provide gentler and non-invasive laser energy compared to ablative treatments. The treatment heats the dermis with laser energy to stimulate collagen production. The procedure can address mild skin concerns like blemishes, uneven texture, and fine lines to produce a smoother appearance.
Non-ablative treatments require minimum to zero downtime because your outer layer of skin remains intact. A good example of a non-ablative treatment is Fraxel CO2 laser skin resurfacing, which targets specific treatment areas without affecting the surrounding tissues.
Recovery and results
Your dermatologist will instruct you to take care of your skin after treatment to get the best results. Useful instructions include:
- Avoiding rubbing or scratching the treated area
- Avoiding direct sun exposure
- Applying the right sunscreen with an SPF factor of more than 30
If you have skin concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, or uneven skin tone, visit Dr. John Freeman for laser skin resurfacing treatment. Dr. Freeman will offer you a personalized treatment after thoroughly evaluating your skin. Call or book your appointment online today to improve your appearance.