TLDR – Quick Guide

• Lasers use concentrated light energy to target specific skin concerns.
• Different types of lasers treat different issues, including wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, and broken capillaries.
• Non-ablative lasers stimulate collagen with minimal downtime, while ablative lasers remove skin layers for deep resurfacing.
• Most treatments take 30-60 minutes with mild discomfort and minimal downtime.
• Results improve over weeks to months, with multiple sessions often recommended for optimal results.

The Science Behind Laser Skin Treatments

How Do Laser Skin Treatments Work?

Laser stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In simple terms, lasers emit focused beams of light that penetrate the skin to target pigment, damaged cells, or collagen-producing layers. Different laser wavelengths target specific skin concerns:

• Melanin (for sunspots and pigmentation issues)
• Blood vessels (for redness and broken capillaries)
• Water in skin cells (for resurfacing and collagen stimulation)

Types of Laser Skin Treatments

1. Ablative Lasers (Deep Resurfacing)

Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of skin, forcing it to heal and regenerate fresh, younger-looking skin. These are more aggressive but offer dramatic anti-aging results.

• Best for: Deep wrinkles, acne scars, severe sun damage
• Downtime: 7-14 days
• Examples: CO2 laser, Erbium laser

2. Non-Ablative Lasers (Collagen Boosting & Pigment Treatment)

Non-ablative lasers work beneath the skin’s surface without removing layers, making them gentler with little to no downtime. These lasers stimulate collagen production and treat pigmentation, fine lines, and redness.

• Best for: Mild wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne scars
• Downtime: Minimal (1-3 days of redness)
• Examples: Fraxel, Nd:YAG, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

3. Fractional Lasers (Targeted Repair)

Fractional lasers create tiny micro-injuries in the skin, triggering collagen production and cellular renewal while leaving surrounding tissue intact.

• Best for: Fine lines, texture issues, acne scars
• Downtime: 3-7 days
• Examples: Fraxel, Halo

Benefits of Laser Skin Treatments

• Reduces wrinkles & fine lines
• Improves skin tone & texture
• Fades acne scars & pigmentation
• Boosts collagen production
• Minimizes pores & sun damage

What to Expect Before, During & After Laser Treatment

Before Treatment

• Consultation is key. A skincare professional will assess your skin type and recommend the right laser for your concerns.
• Avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before treatment to reduce risks of pigmentation.
• Stop retinoids & exfoliants a few days before your session to prevent irritation.

During Treatment

• The procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes depending on the area treated.
• A numbing cream may be applied for comfort, especially for ablative or fractional lasers.
• You may feel mild warmth or tingling during the session, but discomfort is minimal.

After Treatment

• Redness and mild swelling are common but subside within a few days.
• Peeling and flaking may occur with deeper treatments—this is normal.
• Moisturize and use sunscreen daily to protect healing skin.
• Results appear gradually over a few weeks to months as collagen rebuilds.

Key Takeaways

• Laser skin treatments use light energy to resurface skin, boost collagen, and target pigmentation.
• Ablative lasers provide deeper resurfacing, while non-ablative lasers are gentler with minimal downtime.
• Fractional lasers offer a balance of effectiveness and recovery time.
• Multiple sessions may be required for best results.
• Proper aftercare, including sun protection, is crucial for long-term success.

FAQs

Results can last months to years, depending on the type of laser used and your skincare routine. Maintenance treatments every 6-12 months help prolong benefits.