Introduction:
Laser treatments are of two types such as ablative and non-ablative laser treatments. In ablative laser treatment, the superficial layer of the skin is removed using a laser. But non-ablative laser treatment involves applying a laser on the skin, which produces heat without causing injury to the skin and deals with removing wrinkles, age spots, and scars. The heat produced in the process causes increased collagen production that treats the skin conditions. This treatment procedure is found to have less recovery period and fewer complications.
How does the Non-ablative Laser Treatment Work?
In non-ablative skin laser treatment, heat is applied fractionally to the skin with the help of microthermal treatment zones. The application of laser allows the elimination of the dead cells on the superficial layer, and the heat is transferred to the deep layer of the skin called the dermis, where it promotes collagen production and thus tightens the skin. Since this procedure involves only the affected area, the other normal areas of the skin are left unaffected. This fractional approach leads to less healing time and recovery. Thus complications are also minimized.
What Are the Uses of Non-ablative Laser Skin Treatment?
Non-ablative laser treatment can be performed to treat,
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Wrinkles and fine lines.
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Age spots.
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Sun-damaged skin.
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Uneven skin tone.
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Acne scars.
Who Is Not an Ideal Candidate for the Treatment?
You are not ideal for the treatment if you,
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Have chronic health conditions.
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Have taken acne medications.
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Have a weak immune system.
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Had radiation therapy for the face.
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Have dark skin tones as they are prone to hypopigmentation.
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Have a history of previous laser skin treatment.
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Had a history of a recent outbreak of the herpes virus.
How Are You Prepared Before the Treatment?
Before starting with the procedure, the physician will,
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Ask for Medical History: The previous medical history is important to know your eligibility for the treatment. The physician will ask about the medications and, if so, having any medical issues. Then he or she will ask about the recent cosmetic surgeries you have done and any ingredients in cosmetics you are allergic to. These details ensure you do not face serious complications during and after the procedure.
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Do a Physical Examination: The area of the skin to be treated is physically examined. The skin's tone, thickness, and texture are known beforehand by the physician for a better treatment procedure.
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Discuss Your Expectations: This is the session where you can discuss your expectations of the procedure. The doctor will also tell you about the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. You can discuss the recovery period and how long it will take to heal. You can further discuss if laser skin treatment is necessary for your skin condition or if any other alternatives would do, etc.
What Are the Precautions to Be Followed Before the Procedure?
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Medications: If you have a history of herpes infection, taking antivirals before the procedure is good. The doctor can also prescribe medications based on your medical condition. Avoid taking aspirin before the procedure.
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Sun Damage: Avoid chronic sun exposure for about two months, as it can cause irregular pigmentation in the skin.
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Avoid Smoking: It is good not to smoke before and after the procedure to avoid complications.
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Stay Away From Irritants: Avoid the use of deodorants and perfumes, which may have potential irritants.
What Are the Possible Risks of the Treatment?
Usually, the risks after non-ablative laser treatments are lesser than those after ablative laser treatments. Some of the risks are,
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Redness and Irritation: After the treatment, there may be slight redness, irritation, swelling, and pain. It may last for several months and then resolve.
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Acne: On applying creams during the procedure, the acne may worsen.
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Infections: The treatment can lead to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The herpes virus, which stays dormant in the skin, usually can get activated and lead to a flare-up of the virus.
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Change in Skin Color: It can sometimes lead to a change in skin color, either becoming too dark or too light after the procedure.
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Scarring: There is also a slight risk of scarring.
What Can You Expect After the Procedure?
The recovery time after the procedure is minimal. Most of them can continue with their routine after the procedure. Some can experience redness in the area treated which can be masked by using their makeup products.
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The treated area is advised to be kept moisturized.
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Do not sleep on the treated area to avoid swelling. Use a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling.
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Avoid direct sun exposure after the treatment. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen when you step out.
How Does the Recovery Take Place?
A mild sunburn sensation and discomfort will be felt for at least an hour. Then the skin turns red, lasting for five to seven days. Then the new epidermal layer of skin develops within 24 hours.
The process of recovery and repair of the skin involves the following steps.
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Bronzing: Depending on the level of treatment, you can experience a bronze appearance that lasts for three to fourteen days.
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Flaking: The dead cells on the superficial layer of the skin get exfoliated. The new epidermal cells start replacing those dead cells. This process is called flaking, which feels like a mild sunburn. The use of moisturizer would help mask flaking. Also, use broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent sun damage. Thus during this recovery process, the body repairs the dermal layer of the skin affected by the laser, which then produces beneficial effects on the skin later.
How Are the Results After the Procedure?
Results after non-ablative laser treatment are gradual. You will be able to notice more improvements in skin tone and texture earlier than wrinkles.
Conclusion:
If you are interested in getting your skin treated using laser, book an appointment with the best dermatologist to know your skin type and then decide the treatment options. The specialist will throw some ideas to correct your flaws. Tell the specialist about your medical conditions and your previous experience in cosmetic treatment to make them choose the best skin treatment for you. And if you are all set for the procedure, ensure you have realistic expectations.
