Is Botox just a step too far? But do you want to give your skin and your look an overhaul? Well, celebrities like super models Christie Brinkley, Kate Mossand Linda Evangelista, and Kim Kardashian, Sienna Miller, and Renee Zellweger have all reported to have tried a special treatment that is that is knocking years off their lookas part of their skincare regime. Have you heard of skin resurfacing laser treatments?
It sounds a bit scary, but this treatment is now a hugely popular and safe aesthetic treatment for women and men who want to reduce wrinkles or reduce the appearance of blemishes or acne scars.
What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a special treatment using concentrated, pulsating beams of light that remove the skin layer by layer. There are two types of lasers that can be used – carbon dioxide or erbium. The latest version of C02 laser treatment is called fractionated C02 laser treatment.
Erbium laser is usually used for moderately deep wrinkles and lines on the face, neck, chest and hands. Because this type of laser does not damage the surrounding tissue quite as much, the recovery time can be a little quicker. Erbium is also better for people who have darker skin.
What are the benefits of laser skin resurfacing?
This procedure is not just aesthetic. It can change people’s lives. The laser treatment can decrease the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face, and it can help to improve the skin tone and reduce sagging skin. But, it can also help people to improve the look of blemishes, scars and sun damage.
Who are the best candidates?
Laser skin resurfacing is not for everyone. If you currently have acne or dark skin, then it may not be the best option. And this type of procedure is not recommended for stretch marks. Your doctor will be able to help you to choose the right procedure for your skin and your requirements when you have the initial consultation.
How much does it cost?
Laser skin resurfacing can cost anything between $1,000 and $2,000. It will depend on the clinic you use and the area that is being treated.
How long does it take to recover?
This type of treatment is not a lunchtime procedure that will see you back at work on the same afternoon with no side effects. It can take up to 21 days for the treated area to heal fully. It can be as short as five days. It will depend on the reason for the treatment and the type of laser used. Your skin will be pink and red in the affected area during this time. Once the area has healed, you can wear make up to cover up the discolouration until it has disappeared completely.
Does it hurt?
It may hurt or it may not. Doctors will say that it can feel like a rubber band being snapped against the skin, over and over. It can depend upon the pain tolerance of the patient. It is also dependent up on the treatment the patient is undergoing, so the pain level will depend upon the laser used, the depth of the treatment and the area it is being used in.
What are the side effects and after care?
It is important to tell your doctor if you suffer from cold sores as this procedure can spark an outbreak. Between 12 and 72 hours after the procedure, you may well also experience itching in the affected area.
Your skin might be a little lighter in the treated area for a while after the procedure, so it is important to protect it with sunscreen. It will also be important to keep the area very well moisturised, but you must liaise with your doctor about when you can start using products and which products are recommended. Your skin will be red and pink for two to three weeks after the procedure.
How to choose a clinic for the procedures?
It is important not to choose the clinic that offers the best deal. You need to do your research. Look at their experience, their qualifications, testimonials from other clients and how you get on with them at an initial consultation.
This is an extremely specialised and personal procedure, so you have to feel comfortable and have trust in the person who will be doing it. It is always good to look for someone who is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery or doctors affiliated to the equivalent in your country as you know they will have to be qualified and experienced to a certain level to be certified.
This type of aesthetic treatment is becoming more and more popular. While the COVID pandemic has seen a dip in the market purely because people couldn’t get to appointments due to lockdown restrictions, the market is predicted to return to boom time in the next two years.