The laser is an indispensable assistant of a cosmetologist, able to restore the skin’s youth, healthy appearance, eliminate rashes, scars, stretch marks, and other aesthetic problems. It can start the recovery processes in the deep layers of the dermis, the production of the skin’s collagen, and even hyaluronic acid.
It is used to rejuvenate the skin of the face and remove unwanted body hair, moles, scars, and tattoos. Let’s explore in this article if cosmetic laser treatments are really so effective.
What is the Principle of Laser Action?
The principle of laser operation is based on the ability of excited atoms of some materials to produce photons, so-called “enhanced light.” The laser device sends out a monochromatic wave of light that can be absorbed by colored media of a specific color, while the laser “ignores” other media. If the laser detects the desired color, its beam penetrates and heats the tissue.
The laser’s application fields are so diverse that it is easier to say where it is not used. Surgery, telecommunications, archeology, weapons, welding and optics, currency detectors, and cosmetology. And this list is far from complete.
Laser cosmetology is a set of salon procedures for eliminating such aesthetic defects as pigmentation, scars, scars, post-acne, and stretch marks with the help of a laser.
The laser can affect problem areas without harming health, thanks to high accuracy and minimal scattering.
The essence of cosmetic laser procedures is that the doctor, using different lengths of the laser, affects protein, water, hemoglobin, or melanin to improve the skin’s condition through their destruction. The principle of operation is that if the frequency of the desired component coincides with the frequency to which the laser is set, then this leads to the result consciously planned by the cosmetologist:
- Heating the protein will lead to a lifting effect;
- Evaporation of water polishes the skin;
- Destruction of melanin will get rid of pigmentation;
- Hair follicles are destroyed for epilation.
Types of Laser Treatments for Face and Body
Here are some of the most common cosmetic laser treatments:
Laser rejuvenation procedure helps to get rid of wrinkles, laxity, and sagging of the skin, to return a young and fresh appearance.
The laser beam penetrates the deep layers of the dermis and stimulates the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, without damaging the surface layers of the epidermis. Thanks to such a gentle influence, patients do not have a rehabilitation period, and the first results become noticeable already after the first manipulation. This facial laser treatment can be performed even in hard-to-reach and delicate areas, for example, in the earlobe area, lower and upper eyelid.
Pigmentation removal. The procedure can be performed on the face and any other part of the body. Also, laser exposure positively affects the skin’s quality and increases its tone and elasticity.
Laser epilation is a modern and safe way to get rid of unwanted hair. During laser hair removal, laser light affects the hair follicle. It is necessary to carry out only 3-4 procedures so that all follicles are weakened under the influence of the laser and the remaining hair is lightened and thinned. In the future, the need to repeat the procedure becomes less frequent, and often the hair stops growing at all.
Laser acne treatment is a very effective and safe method of treating this problem and eliminating post-acne scars. Due to a course of such procedures, you can eliminate pimples, open and closed comedones, and scars after acne, as well as reduce skin oiliness and narrow pores.
Infrared thermal lifting is a unique aesthetic laser procedure that allows to restore the skin’s tone, elasticity, and even get rid of deep dermal folds. You can reduce the patient’s nasolabial folds, tighten the face oval, remove the second chin, and rejuvenate the neck and décolleté area dermis.
The procedure is comfortable and painless, and there is no rehabilitation period. During the first hours after thermal lifting, a slight redness may persist, which later disappears without a trace.
Laser correction of blood vessels on the body and face is the only effective way to eliminate couperosis and vascular stars. The laser beam heats erythrocytes at the point of impact, destroying and coagulating the vascular wall. The result of this cosmetic laser procedure is noticeable already after the first manipulation; in complex cases, the removal of blood vessels is carried out in several sessions.
The procedure is quick and comfortable and without any downtime.
Carbon peeling is aimed at dermal cleansing and rejuvenation and is indicated for acne, couperosis, age-related changes in the skin, enlarged pores, and oily sheen on the face.
Such cosmetic laser peeling is effective in the face, neck, and décolleté area. It carefully affects the selected zone, starts the collagenogenesis process, normalizes the work of the sebaceous glands, and effectively fights against deformational types of aging.
Benefits Of Cosmetic Laser Treatments
Some of the most important advantages of using a laser in aesthetic practice:
- Laser treatments are highly targeted, allowing for precise treatment of specific areas or concerns without affecting surrounding skin or tissues.
- Procedures with lasers are versatile, as different types of lasers are available to address a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, scars, pigmentation issues, vascular lesions, and more.
- There is no rehabilitation period after laser aesthetic procedures – slight redness after manipulation passes within a few hours.
- The laser treatments can be performed all year round, even in the summer season, without fear of complications and pigmentation.
- All procedures are carried out comfortably for the patient, without pain. If necessary, a powerful topical anesthetic can be used to numb the unpleasant sensations.
- Certain cosmetic laser treatments stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s firmness and elasticity, leading to improved skin texture and a more attractive appearance.
- Laser treatments can be customized based on the individual’s skin type, concerns, and goals. This allows for tailored treatments that optimize results.
- Depending on the type of treatment and the concern being addressed, the results of laser treatments can have extended longevity. For example, laser hair removal can lead to permanent hair reduction, and some resurfacing treatments can provide lasting improvements in skin texture.
As technology advances, lasers become even more sophisticated and effective, allowing for better outcomes with fewer risks. Of great benefit, this treatment can be used without complications with products similar to Stylage.
Laser Skin Treatment’s Side Effects
While cosmetic laser treatments offer numerous benefits, they are not without risks. Potential Side effects include:
- Skin irritation;
- Redness;
- Swelling;
- Changes in pigmentation;
- In rare cases, more severe complications may occur.
Doctors must have a thorough consultation with a patient before the procedure to determine whether a skin laser treatment suits their individual needs and to ensure that they have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes. Cosmetic laser treatment aftercare is also vital to promote healing effects and avoid complications.
Conclusion
Cosmetic laser treatments are a safe and effective way to improve the skin’s appearance. Many different types of laser procedures are available in cosmetology, each with its benefits and drawbacks, and the best laser procedure for a particular patient will depend on their personal needs and conditions.
Doctors considering offering cosmetic laser procedures should carefully evaluate their training and experience in this area. They should also be aware of these procedures’ risks and side effects and the latest advances in laser technology to help their patients achieve their aesthetic goals and improve their self-confidence.
FAQ
Is laser treatment good for the face?
Aesthetic laser treatments for the face can be effective for various cosmetic and medical purposes, but whether they are “good” for the person depends on your patient’s specific needs, skin type, and the practitioner’s expertise in performing the procedure.
A thorough consultation and understanding of the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes are essential before the treatment.
Which is the best laser for skin treatment?
The choice of laser for the procedure depends on the specific skin concern being addressed, your patient’s skin type, and other individual factors.
Different types of lasers are created to target specific skin issues, and the effectiveness of each laser can vary based on the technology used, the expertise of the doctor, and the patient’s unique characteristics.
What is laser used for in beauty treatments?
Here are some common types of cosmetic lasers used for various skin treatments:
- Fractional CO2 laser is often used for skin resurfacing to treat wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. It ablates the outer layers of the skin, promoting collagen production and improving skin texture. However, it can have extended downtime and may not be suitable for all skin types.
- ND:YAG laser is versatile and can be used for various treatments, including hair removal, vascular lesions, and skin tightening. It’s considered safe for a broader range of skin types, including darker skin tones.
- Alexandrite laser was created for hair removal, especially on lighter skin types. It targets the melanin in hair follicles and is known for its relatively fast treatment sessions.
- Pulsed Dye laser targets blood vessels and is commonly used to treat vascular lesions, rosacea, and redness in the skin.
- Q-Switched laser is used for tattoo removal and treatment of pigmented lesions, like freckles and age spots.
- Erbium lasers are used for skin resurfacing, just like CO2 lasers, but they typically have less downtime and are considered safer for patients with darker skin tones.
Whether using CO2 or erbium technology, fractional lasers treat only a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This promotes faster healing and reduces downtime.
References
Tull SS, Raza S. Lasers & light therapies for skin rejuvenation. Mo Med. 2011;108(1):69-72.
Houreld NN. The use of lasers and light sources in skin rejuvenation. Clin Dermatol. 2019;37(4):358-364. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2019.04.008.
Badawi A. Role of lasers in facial rejuvenation. G Ital Dermatol Venereol. 2012;147(3):285-293.
Heidari Beigvand H, Razzaghi M, Rostami-Nejad M, et al. Assessment of Laser Effects on Skin Rejuvenation. J Lasers Med Sci. 2020;11(2):212-219. doi:10.34172/jlms.2020.35.
Injectable aesthetics are popular due to their ability to provide noticeable results with minimal downtime compared to surgical procedures. They are versatile and can be tailored to meet individual aesthetic goals, whether it's enhancing lips, restoring facial volume, or smoothing out wrinkles. However, they should always be administered by qualified professionals to ensure safety and achieve optimal results.
Injectable aesthetics are used to enhance facial features, reduce the signs of aging, and improve overall facial symmetry and appearance.
Key types of injectable aesthetics include:
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Dermal Fillers: These injectables are used to add volume, fill in wrinkles and folds, and enhance facial contours. They often contain substances like hyaluronic acid, collagen, or calcium hydroxylapatite, which help plump up the skin and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
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Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Botulinum toxin injections temporarily relax facial muscles that cause wrinkles and lines to form. It is commonly used to treat forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows, and crow's feet around the eyes.
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Collagen Stimulators: These injectables stimulate the body's own collagen production, helping to improve skin texture and firmness over time. Examples include poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) and calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse).
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Neurotoxin Injections: Besides Botox, other neurotoxins such as Dysport and Xeomin are used similarly to reduce wrinkles and lines.
