Skincare has been the most discussed topic among people these days, and this has led to new products being launched on a day-to-day basis. We have a variety of products from chemical peels to topical creams in the market that can improve your skin, but have you ever heard about laser treatments? This article tries to answer the most common questions people have with regard to face and skin lightening laser treatments.
How Do Lasers Lighten Skin Discoloration?
The term LASER stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation''. It consists of a concentrated beam of light that is used to heat and diminish very specific targets. The targets in need of lightening are the dark spots on the skin called Chromophores, that contain the skin pigment melanin. For more accurate pigment targeting the pulse length should be shortened to reduce the amount of heat produced, this can have an effect on nearby cells and tissue.
Which Type Of Lasers Are Used For Skin Lightening Treatments?
For lightening dark patches on the skin there are various lasers available, each with different degrees of effectiveness. There is no single unit that can be pinpointed as the most effective one. Mentioned below are the most regularly used light-based devices for treating skin hyperpigmentation:
1. Fractional Non-Ablative Lasers (1550/1540mm)
Apart from being approved for melasma by the authorities, these laser treatments have been known to provide fairly good results. However, there are slight chances of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Due to the high complication rates of increased pigmentation, post-treatment epidermal burns, and recurrence, people with darker skin types should stay away from fractional non-ablative lasers.
2. Low-Fluence Q-Switched Nd-YAG Laser
Although this is the most commonly studied laser for the treatment of melasma, even after not having the approval of the authorities to treat skin hyperpigmentation. When combined with other light-based therapies, or topical treatments, its effectiveness increases. This laser is safe to be used on people with darker skin tones as well.
3. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Although technically this is not a laser, Intense Pulsed Light utilizes high-intensity light to target specific chromophores in the skin, like melanin, in a similar manner. This therapy improves melasma when used in combination with other therapies and is resistant to topical treatment alone. However, IPL is not recommended to people with darker skin types, as one of its most common side effects is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
4. Ablative Lasers (CO2 and ER-YAG)
Certain skin hyperpigmentation types, such as flat seborrheic keratoses and sunspots can benefit from Ablative lasers. However, using this to treat PIH or melasma should be avoided as they have a high risk of exacerbating hyperpigmentation.
5. Other Types of Lasers
The Alexandrite laser has been recorded having varying degrees of effectiveness. The Q-switched ruby laser is a divisive therapy, with studies having contradictory findings. This treatment is not advised for because further research is required to understand its best applications and uses .
What Are The Best Face Laser Treatments Available Today ?
Here are some of the best face laser treatments available today:
Fractional CO2
Laser Genesis
Fraxel Laser
Pulsed dye lasers
Each of these treatments have their own set of unique benefits, choosing which one you’ll be going ahead with should be done only after consulting with an expert dermatologist.
Does Your Skin Get Better After Getting A Face Laser Treatment?
Laser Genesis is a procedure recognized as one of the best treatments to improve the skin as it stimulates the development of collagen, reducing wrinkles and fine lines, and giving the skin a healthy glow and a smoother look. Another advantage of Laser Genesis is that there is no downtime and takes less effort.
Does Face Laser Help in Removing Acne Scars?
Yes, Damaged skin tissue can be removed from deep acne scars which are difficult to hide, effectively using a Fractional CO2 laser. It also fills in the areas of tissue lost due to acne scars by boosting collagen growth.
Does Face Laser Treatment Help In Getting Rid of Broken Blood Vessels?
If getting rid of broken blood vessels is something you have in mind, Pulsed dye lasers can definitely help. Yellow light is used by the laser to gently heat the skin and kill blood vessels, without affecting the rest of the skin. They have zero downtime and do not require pain medicines
Does Face Laser Treatment Remove Major Sun Damage and Wrinkles?
The best in class in the complexion rejuvenation category is definitely the Fraxel Laser, perhaps the most popular among celebrities as well. It is great for crow’s feet care, overall skin rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, and sun damage removal.The results are as desired, despite the downtime of a few days.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
Overall, lasers when used in conjunction with other treatments to reduce, or get rid of hyperpigmentation and melasma can be beneficial. However, using lasers alone yield effects that are generally temporary and unpredictable. However, there are chances of it getting more serious at times.
Conclusion
If you are looking for Laser Skin Treatment in Bangalore, please contact our expert dermatologists at 1 Health Medical Centre, or schedule an appointment with us if you’d like to have a patch test done to check if you have any skin-related issues. For any other issues related to skin lightening laser treatments and laser treatment for face, please call (Phone Number), we are always happy to help.