There are hundreds of technologies currently available to address the visible signs of skin aging. One such technology is the Laser, which stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation,” but how does it work?
This content was reviewed by Dr. Nazanin Saedi
Both ablative and non-ablative lasers use highly concentrated light beams of improve the skin texture. Simultaneously, the laser energy heats the underlying skin called the dermis, and together this resurfacing procedure will improve the skin’s overall tone and texture by reducing wrinkles, dark spots, blemishes, and even some acne scars.
The Main Benefits of Laser Resurfacing Treatment:
Ablative lasers remove outer layers of skin, called the epidermis, and encourage new skin to regenerate in its place. How deep the laser penetrates depends on the wavelength of the light. Fractionated ablative lasers are being used more and more because they break up the laser energy into thousands of tiny beams to treat only a small fraction of the skin in the treatment area, which reduces downtime by not completely removing the outer layers of the skin. The improvements from ablative laser resurfacing are long-lasting and dramatic, but they can appear gradually over time as healing and new collagen regeneration take place. It can take many months before you see optimal results from the fractional laser treatment. There is typically some downtime with these procedures that can range from 3-10 days depending on your skin condition and the type of procedure performed.
Both ablative and non-ablative lasers use highly concentrated light beams to improve the skin texture. The heat generated by the non-ablative laser promotes collagen production which causes the skin to contract and tighten for a younger and healthier appearance. Non-ablative lasers can also be fractionated, so they deliver heat into the skin through thousands of tiny, deep columns known as microthermal treatment zones with normal untreated skin in the surrounding areas. The fractional approach allows the skin to heal much faster versus treating the entire surface of the skin. This approach reduces the recovery time and reduces the number of complications that can occur. Oftentimes multiple sessions are required for optimal results and there is typically no downtime with non-ablative laser procedures. The skin may appear pink and have a sand-paper type texture for a few days following treatment.
Fortunately, if you are wondering how to better prepare your skin to enhance treatment results, there are skincare products that can help. To prep the treatment area, we recommend applying Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology® for the 2 weeks leading up to the procedure and for the 2 weeks following the procedure.
Designed to support the regeneration of healthy elastin and collagen, calm skin redness, and support optimal results of the treatment, Regenerating Skin Nectar is formulated using potent antioxidants and peptides to protect the skin barrier and reduce the appearance of redness as the skin heals after laser skin rejuvenation.
For some more invasive laser treatments, it is helpful to further seal in moisture by applying an intensive hydration product to the skin, such as our Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm. Our Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm is formulated with Physalis Angulata Extract, Chamomile Extract, and Shea Butter Triterpenes to support cell renewal and nourish the skin's protective barrier post-procedure. After receiving a laser treatment, texture and tone may appear uneven for a few days.
Contact your healthcare professional to find out which type of laser skin resurfacing treatment is right for your skin type.
Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology® is clinically proven to enhance treatment results:
Recommended Products for Laser Treatments
" I love using ALASTIN Skin Nectar both prior to laser procedures and after laser treatments to enhance the appearance of skin at least two weeks following the treatments. The Skin Nectar prepares the skin when used prior to treatment, and helps to minimize redness when used after treatment. I personally use the product and believe in the real science behind it."
Dr. Nazanin Saedi
Jefferson Laser Surgery and Cosmetic Center
"ALASTIN Regenerating Skin Nectar is one of the best-selling products in my office. It not only works to enhance the appearance of skin when used 2 weeks following procedures (such as non-ablative laser treatments) but patients fall in love with it once they feel it and want to continue using it. I recommend it also for rejuvenation, along with its sister product ALASTIN Restorative Skin Complex."
Dr. Lorrie Klein
OC Dermatology
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