Lasers have come a long way in the past 20 years, and they are able to treat a myriad of skin problems and conditions. The signs of aging (like fine lines and wrinkles), unwanted hair, spider veins or brown spots can be a thing of the past with the use of the newer lasers available today. There are hundreds of different lasers and although many of them can help several skin imperfections, each is best at treating one specific type of problem. It is important to find the laser that fits your individual goals. We must take into account your skin type and color, the area being treated and the problem we’re addressing in order to properly determine which laser will be most effective.
Most laser treatments have zero downtime while others produce temporary bruising or redness. And still others require a week of downtime. It is always best to give yourself at least 2 weeks prior to any big event when doing any laser treatment. Please ask us for more information or if you have any questions and we’ll gladly help determine which laser treatment is right for you.
*Laser Center services available only at our Burbank and Northridge clinics
Which Laser Treatment is Right for Me?
Laser technologies have improved so much over time that we have devices that can accomplish a variety of rewarding results! To find out which laser treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations. Your provider will sit with you and hear your concerns and goals. They will examine your skin with the utmost care and attention to detail to fully observe what you have brought up to correct. With this approach, they can decide which treatment or treatments would achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time.
What Kind of Conditions can Lasers Treat?
Aesthetic lasers can treat a wide variety of skin conditions. Examples include:
- Unwanted hair
- Acne and acne scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and age spots
- Vascular discoloration
- Actinic keratosis
- Broken capillaries and diffuse redness
- Vitiligo
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Laser Treatment?
Historically, lasers have been known to be most efficient on skin that is on the lighter side. As advances have occurred within laser technology, newer devices have gained the ability to treat a wider range of skin tones. If you have very dark skin, you may not be a candidate for any or every laser treatment but you may still be a good candidate for one that utilizes gentler energy. To be a good candidate for any laser treatment, you mustn't have taken Accutane in the last six months. Laser treatments are not approved for women who are pregnant or nursing. During your consultation, your provider will ask about your medical history, medications, and other aspects of your health that may influence your response to laser treatment. Generally, laser treatments are considered safe and effective for most people who would like to achieve healthier, more vibrant, more youthful skin.
What is Recovery Like After Laser Treatment?
Your recovery from laser treatment will depend on the type of technology that is used and the strength of the energy deposited into your skin. Most laser treatments cause some degree of redness. You might look mildly sunburned or have significant redness and drying that requires special care to maintain the moisture barrier while your skin heals. Your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions that will help you take the best care of your skin after your laser treatment. Careful adherence to these instructions will facilitate optimal tissue regeneration. If you have questions about your recovery, please do not hesitate to contact your local office for assistance.
Is There Anything I Should Avoid While Undergoing Laser Treatments?
Laser treatments can make your skin more photosensitive than usual. While going through your treatment program, your provider may advise you to avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily before going out, and reapply sunscreen frequently when outdoors for more than a few hours. For the duration of your course of treatment, it would be ideal to seek shade and avoid direct sun exposure. Wear a wide-brimmed had if you've had your face treated, and wear clothing that covers the area that has received laser treatment. Your provider may also encourage you to use specific types of products and avoid others. For example, your skin may be easily irritated by acidic ingredients like retinol or vitamin C. Our goal in setting limitations for activities or product use is to ensure optimal recovery and tissue regeneration so you can enjoy fabulous results!
Are There Any Side Effects After Laser Treatment?
The most common side effects of laser treatment include mild to moderate redness and swelling, drying, and flaking. Your skin may itch or feel sensitive like you have a sunburn. You can mitigate these side effects by following the care instructions given to you by your provider. If you have questions about an unexpected side effect from your laser treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us!