Everyone looks better with glowing, healthy skin. No matter what you use to get rid of your unwanted hair, dark spots, or other blemishes, you want your skin to look its best. Laser skin services are fast and effective ways to smooth your complexion using precise beams of light. When it comes to choosing the treatment that will work best for your individual needs, the following are some critical aspects you should know:
1) What are your options?
There are several types of lasers being used in various procedures, including:
v CO2 lasers
v Nd:YAG lasers
v Pulsed-dye lasers,
v Intense pulsed light (IPL) sources or intense pulsed light sources combined with radiofrequency technology
v Fractional resurfacing devices with thulium/carbon dioxide emitters
v Q-switched Nd: YAG lasers
v 1064 nm and 532 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) lasers
Side effects depend on the type of laser used, as well as the setting and pulse duration. For instance, side effects from specific procedures such as tattoo removal can include lightening or darkening of surrounding skin; swelling; redness; crusting; itching; blistering; burning sensations; scarring similar to a surgical scar; and open sores. Other laser treatments might cause temporary or permanent changes to your skin’s texture or pigmentation.
2) What should you tell your doctor?
Tell your health care provider about any medications you take including prescription and nonprescription, vitamins, herbal supplements, and homeopathic remedies. Tell your provider about any adverse reactions you have from prior laser skin treatments, whether it was the result of a professional or self-treatment.
3) How is it done?
Laser skin services are typically performed by a dermatologist or doctor who specializes in laser treatment procedures. The service usually takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete, depending on which part of the body is being treated and how many treatments the patient needs. Some common areas for laser treatments include acne scars; underarm hair removal, tattoo removal, unwanted hair; leg veins spots and freckles, stretch marks, cellulite, age spots. Before a procedure begins, you’ll likely be asked to remove any clothing from the area where the treatment will occur, and you may need to wear a gown to remain covered. You’ll also be asked to remove glasses or contacts and jewelry in the treatment area. As each laser pulse is directed at your skin, you may feel a brief sting or stinging sensation. The technician will likely move the laser over the targeted area repeatedly during the procedure.
What happens after treatment?
After receiving a laser service, you might notice temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, and blisters lasting for several days up to two weeks. Such side effects disappear gradually and don’t require any specific care. If you think you’re having an adverse reaction to a laser solution, talk with your doctor right away. On rare occasions, such as if you’ve undergone aggressive treatments like resurfacing, scarring or textural changes may occur. Your health care provider might recommend additional treatments to help smooth and soften your skin in such a case.
Who shouldn’t receive laser services?
Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18 years old should not receive laser skin services or any other type of cosmetic treatment. People with active herpetic lesions (that is, lesions caused by a herpes virus) should also avoid laser treatments. In addition, people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus erythematosus, porphyria cutanea tarda, and albinism should speak with their doctors before receiving a procedure that uses light beams to remove hair.
Since laser skin procedures use advanced technology that can significantly improve your appearance and self-confidence while having virtually no downtime, it’s critical to explore all available options before deciding which service is suitable for you. Before scheduling a laser treatment, always ask your health care provider about possible side effects, how much it costs, and what kind of results you can expect with each treatment. This way, you’ll avoid any unpleasant surprises and enjoy looking your best.
