Laser Resurfacing is also referred to as laser-based mechanical photorejuvenation. There are two types of laser resurfacing techniques: Carbon Dioxide and Erbium resurfacing. Each of these options put forth similar advantages.
Treats Signs of Aging
Laser skin resurfacing is among the most effective ways of eradicating the signs of aging. It is extremely useful for treating fine lines and wrinkles that progress aggressively in an aging individual. Laser resurfacing can reduce the intensity of various aging symptoms, like:
- Crow's feet around eyelids
- Deep frowns
- Thick acne scars
- Smoker’s lines
Laser resurfacing uses a non-invasive approach towards rejuvenating the skin. This is done through the controlled application of laser beams. The beams are directed at the inner layers of the skin and they produce internal heat that spreads through the tissues. This has two major effects.
Firstly, the intense heating revitalizes the flow of blood or vascular circulation in the skin. Increased circulation means better hydration of the skin which helps to camouflage fine lines and wrinkles. Secondly, the intense heat breaks through the scar tissue or dead skin cells plugging the skin’s surface. This can be understood as a process of minimally wounding the skin. As a result, the skin is stimulated into a state of healing itself. The healing process invariably includes the formation of new skin proteins, like elastin and collagen.
These are the two most critical proteins for maintaining the youthful appearance of facial skin. The regeneration of more collagen ensures that the skin is tightened within a few days after the laser resurfacing session. Since the skin sustains its rejuvenated process of new tissue formation for a considerable time, the effects of aging are neutralized for an appreciable period after the treatment.
Treats Sunlight-Induced Damage
Sun-induced damage can take a heavy toll on the facial skin. The resulting damages surface in various forms. This includes uneven coloration in the form of discolored patches (hyperpigmentation) and a visibly rough skin. Dry skin is more vulnerable to aging and also blemishes the skin’s texture. Typical symptoms of sun damage include brown spots and a dull skin tone. Laser resurfacing is aimed at neutralizing such issues and improving the overall skin tone.
The deep-seated heating action of laser resurfacing is able to penetrate through the hardened, keratinized skin cells that give the aging spots their typical, dark-colored appearance. Similar, laser resurfacing evens-out the excess concentration of melanin-producing cells found in hyperpigmentation patches.
A few days after the treatment, the patient’s skin develops a typical, pink-colored hue. This is largely indicative of the fact that the older epidermis is being gradually replaced by the new skin cells. The emerging cells have a greater tendency to develop a uniform skin tone and texture.
Safety of Treatment
Many alternatives exist to laser resurfacing in the form of chemical peeling, but in terms of combining effective results with greater safety, laser resurfacing is the better option. Laser resurfacing doesn’t use chemicals that can scar the skin. Laser beams used in this treatment have been in used for many years and their use is restricted to qualified cosmetologists who understand the nuances of laser treatment. There is no fear of scratching the skin beyond repair or inducing unwanted pigmentation due to uncontrolled resurfacing. Since the treatment doesn't include the injection of any foreign agent, there is no fear of an allergic reaction or vascular damage.
Undemanding Aftercare
Laser resurfacing is among the most undemanding of cosmetic treatments. This is underlined by the fact that the post-treatment phase involves only basic precautions, such as the occasional use of ice-packs and protection form sunlight in the form of sunscreen.
