Different Kinds of Laser Beauty Treatments

As technology continues to emerge, it is no wonder that advances in medical and cosmetic treatment will become the norm. One of these innovations is the use of lasers and light-emitting devices to treat skin issues and fight off signs of aging. Traditional nighttime rejuvenating masks or lotion could play a vital role in maintaining your skin’s health.

(Photo: Zayn Clinic/Flickr)

However, cosmetic products such as scar removal products or anti-aging serums may seem to offer less difference even if they are used on a day to day basis. This is where the different laser beauty treatments come into action. In this article, let us tackle what exactly are laser beauty treatments and how they affect your overall skin health.

How does it work?

Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) was first introduced and used in the 1960s and was eventually refined to meet a wide variety of medical and cosmetic purposes. Major advances in this technology has emerged from treating skin problems to eye surgery. It is also used for both cosmetic and dermatological applications in terms of tattoo removal, hair removal or even stretchmark reduction.

Basically, it works by the emission of concentrated beams of light that target the tissue in a precise manner. The laser is adjusted with its direction, pulse duration, wavelength, frequency and intensity.

Types of laser beauty treatments

There are two main types of laser therapies that have distinct purposes, ablative and non-ablative procedures.

Ablative lasers

This procedure involves injecting an intense light wavelength into the skin, which effectively removes damaged skin. In this way, it stimulates the underlying skin, which boosts the skin’s natural collagen production to fight off wrinkles or any signs of aging. There are two types of ablative lasers including:

• Carbon dioxide laser: This is used for treating skin cancer, deep-set wrinkles, saggy skin or other skin issues. However, due to its side effects including pigmentation (darkening of the skin), burning, pain, itching or redness of the skin, it was replaced with fractional mode lasers.
• Erbium laser: This can be effective on skin pigmentation, sun damage, acne scars, moles and small to moderate wrinkles. The main drawback of this type is that it may cause bruising, swelling or redness that could last for up to two weeks.

(Photo: deanjames938/Flickr)

Non-ablative laser

The difference with this type of laser beauty treatment is that it targets beneath the surface of the skin. This method can also stimulate the production and growth of collagen, which could improve the tone of the skin. Here are some three main types of non-ablative laser-based treatments.

• Nd: YAG laser: This is basically a crystal, which is made up of elements including Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet. The heat emitted by the laser can help certain skin conditions by destroying any damaged cells. However, Nd: YAG laser might offer low success rate and can cause redness, itchin, or swelling of the skin for several days.
• Alexandrite lasers: The light emitted from the Alexandrite laser is converted into heat energy, which targets the skin area precisely. Changes in skin pigmentation and swelling are all common in the first few days after the procedure.
• Pulsed dye laser: This method is used for scar removal in cosmetic and dermatological clinics. It targets the blood vessels in the skin and shrinks them, making the skin less red. Side effects of skin darkening or pigmentation and bruising are all normal and temporary.

(Photo: Sumit Mishra/Flickr)

Light-based treatments

Although light-based treatments are not exactly laser treatments, they can have similarities in terms of results, procedures and purposes. These include photo facial, radiofrequency, intense pulsed light, pulsed dye lasers and ultrasound imaging.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, all of the aforementioned laser beauty treatments and procedures can carry some side effects or risks, which is why it is very important to choose a reputable professional or experienced dermatologist that has proper resources, training and tools to perform these procedures. Having the proper knowledge and conducting comprehensive research on this topic is vital for the effectiveness of this innovative cosmetic procedure.

Article by John Smith, a fashion blogger whod loves sharing his views on latest fashion trends. He also writes for a site http://globeauty.co.za/ offering laser and beauty clinics in Pretoria.