Laser light therapy is the treatment procedure of applying near infrared and red light on the wounds and damaged tissues, to improve the healing process. The light used in this treatment releases an energy which penetrates the body through the red blood cells. This energy facilitates the immune response of the body and thus quickens the healing process. This therapy can be used for medical as well as cosmetic purposes. In cosmetic dermatology, this therapy can help to eliminate the sores, acne, Rosacea, Herpes Simplex and other scars.
Although it is a non-invasive procedure, post-therapy, certain maintenance and care has to be taken to reduce the side effects and increase the efficiency of the therapy.
Recovery Time
Generally, the treatment gives out photochemical energy of light into the body; hence, no damage is done to the treated skin layers. The recovery time is less or none when compared to the other form of laser treatments. Repeated sessions of low-level laser light therapy can be performed within weeks as the recovery time is negligible.
Caring for Minor Consequences
Although it is a non-invasive treatment, patients may experience a slight burning or tingling sensation in the treated areas. The areas may look swollen and reddish for several days after the treatment. It may be aggravated with people having a sensitive skin or skin responding to the cold laser light. Applying cold or ice packs in these inflamed areas can help to reduce the pain and inflammation. Taking care of personal hygiene and cleanliness is important to keep the infections at bay. Avoiding direct exposure to sun light is also very essential to facilitate the quick rejuvenation of skin.
Tackling Skin Peeling
After the first 5 or 7 days, the treated old skin may start to peel. This is a natural tendency post treatment and not a contraindication. Infection may occur if the peeling skin is plucked or pulled out manually. Hence, the peeling skin should be left to peel off on its own. Anti-viral medications might have to be taken if large areas or full facial treatment is done in order to keep infections to a bare minimum.
Maintenance
Post-laser light therapy, certain lifestyle changes have to be adapted to maintain the results obtained through the laser light therapy. Drinking plenty of water, applying sunscreen before going out in sun, getting adequate sleep, reducing stress, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, avoiding oily and deep fried food items, quitting the habits of drinking or smoking and so on can help to maintain an overall healthy body. When the body is healthy, even aging signs appear less conspicuous. You may perform monthly maintenance therapies like microdermabrasion, exfoliation or laser light therapy to maintain or augment the results.
Word of Caution
As you start taking the laser light therapy, you have to complete all sessions of the therapy to obtain desirable results. Suspending the treatment incompletely may lead to uneven tones or pigmentation of the treated skin. Hence, consult your cosmetologist before you decide on anything in this regard.
