Laser resurfacing is a non-invasive, highly versatile skin treatment that can benefit a variety of patients. But, can it benefit you?
Here’s what experts want you to know about the best laser resurfacing treatment in Tysons Corner, Virginia, including whether it’s right for you!
What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure that involves the use of lasers to improve the overall appearance of your skin as well as specific skin concerns. The way it does this ultimately depends on the type of laser used.
Ablative lasers are more aggressive, removing the outer layer of your skin and heating the underlying layer of your skin to stimulate collagen production. Improvement is visible once the outer layer regrows and heals. The lasers used for this are either CO2 or erbium, or even a combination of the two.
Non-ablative lasers tend to be gentler on the skin and have a shorter healing time, but the results may not be as dramatic as an ablative laser in some cases. Non-ablative lasers also stimulate collagen production, but don’t damage layers of skin. IPL, Er:YAG, and pulsed-dye lasers are common non-ablative laser / light sources.
No matter which type of laser your provider uses, results from this skin resurfacing treatment are pretty powerful.
What Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Treat?
Hands down, it is its versatility. The laser is capable of addressing multiple concerns for better skin, including but not limited to: age spots, crow’s feet, fine lines, moles, pre-cancerous growths, sagging skin, scars, uneven skin tone or texture, warts, and wrinkles. Basically, this treatment can do it all – and then some!
Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Safe?
Laser skin resurfacing is generally safe, but it can produce side effects just like any other treatment. Ablative laser treatments, due to their aggressiveness, are more prone to side effects than non-ablative treatments. Regardless, complications from laser resurfacing are rare.
The most common side effects are redness, itchiness, swelling, and tenderness. This is particularly common immediately after an ablative treatment, and the post-treatment feeling is often described as similar to a sunburn. Swelling and inflammation are more likely for non-ablative treatments. This should all subside on its own.
To avoid severe or rare side effects and complications, choose a board-certified provider who is experienced with laser skin resurfacing. It’s also recommended that you receive best laser resurfacing treatment in Tysons Corner, Virginia in fall or winter due to increased sensitivity to UV rays.
Am I a Good Candidate for Resurfacing Lasers? How Do I Know if I Qualify?
Although laser resurfacing has tons of benefits, it’s not necessarily for everyone. To be considered an ideal candidate, you should be generally healthy and a non-smoker. Most resurfacing lasers are not recommended for patients with active acne.
Also, those with darker skin tones should undergo laser resurfacing with caution. While you can still be considered a good candidate for this procedure, you may be at a higher risk for hyperpigmentation and other complications compared to those with lighter skin.
The only way to know for sure whether you’re eligible for this treatment is to book a consultation with a skilled provider. They’ll review your health history, current condition of your skin, and other important information to determine whether lasers are the best option for you.
How Soon Will I See Results, and How Long Do the Effects of Laser Skin Resurfacing Last?
When you’ll see results, how quickly you’ll heal, and the type of side effects you’ll experience depends on whether your treatment was performed with an ablative or non-ablative laser.
Healing after a non-ablative laser takes three to ten days on average, whereas an ablative laser can take up to three weeks. However, the way your skin reacts is pretty similar. You can expect redness, scabs, and slight peeling from either.
You may notice improvement after your skin finishes healing. This improvement can continue for up to a year as new skin cells turn up. Non-ablative laser treatments typically take more than one session for optimal results, however an ablative treatment only requires one.
During recovery, how you treat your skin affects your results greatly, so adjust your skincare routine according to your provider’s recommendations if necessary.
For as long as your provider recommends, you should clean the treatment area two to five times a day with a vinegar or saline-based cleansing solution. A daily moisturizer approved by your provider can also be used to assist with healing.
Protecting your skin is crucial. You may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight for as long as a year post-treatment. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you’re outside even if it’s cloudy.
After all of your and your doctor’s hard work, you’ll be pleased to know that laser skin resurfacing results last for several years once you’ve completed treatment. So, it’s definitely worth the investment of time, money, and effort.
Still, laser resurfacing is not a permanent treatment, so you may need to have a repeat procedure to touch up your results after multiple years have passed.
Choose Younger Image for the Best Laser Resurfacing Treatment in Tysons Corner, Virginia!
For skin renewal and rejuvenation unlike any other, Younger Image is here to help! Contact us at 703-775-2614 to book a consultation and learn if you’re an ideal candidate for laser skin resurfacing!