The possibility of brighter, clearer skin is now much more easily attainable than ever before. Various laser skin resurfacing technicians are available in most major North American cities. Do not hesitate to contact your local medical spa today.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Defined
Laser skin resurfacing is a skin procedure performed by a medical technician, physician, or dermatologist, to improve skin appearance and texture. In particular, laser skin resurfacing removes layers of skin with precision. After healing, new skin cells reveal a tighter, younger-looking face.
The technician will use one of two types of lasers, namely ablative and non-ablative.
- Ablative Lasers – Ablative lasers can be subdivided into two categories, namely carbon dioxide (CO2) or Erbium. Carbon dioxide works best to get rid of unwanted deep wrinkles, scars, and warts, while Erbium works on superficial facial concerns, finer lines, and wrinkles. Both of these types of lasers remove the top layer of skin.
- Non-Ablative Lasers – In contrast, non-ablative lasers do not remove the top layer of skin. Non-ablative lasers can be divided into three main categories, namely fractional lasers, pulsed-dye lasers, and pulsed light.
Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing
There are various benefits to laser skin resurfacing. These include scars, acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, crow’s feet, uneven skin tone, enlarged oil glands, warts, and sagging skin.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure
The laser skin resurfacing procedure is quire straightforward.
Firstly, it will be an outpatient procedure, meaning that one does not have to stay overnight.
Next, a local anesthetic will be applied to small areas to create a numbing sensation. In rare cases, general anesthesia may be required. Treating small parts of the face will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, while the whole face can take up to 2 hours.
The areas will be bandaged after the procedure, and clients will need to begin cleansing the face 4 to 5 times per day after a 24 hour period.
Steroids may be prescribed to help with pain and swelling.
Recovery Time
Itching and stinging is common for 12 to 72 hours following the laser skin resurfacing procedure. Clients should expect to recover within 3 to 10 days on average. However, from more extensive treatments, such as ablative laser skin resurfacing, recovery time can take upward of 3 weeks. Ice packs will speed healing and aid in recovery time.
Clients are urged to avoid makeup for 10 to 21 days following the procedure. Clients are also urged to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and limit their time in the sun for a few months after the procedure. In particular, avoid the sun between 10 am and 2 pm. Remember to keep skin well moisturized.
Laser skin resurfacing is recommended for individuals with lighter skin tones, which at least risk of hyperpigmentation. Those with severe acne conditions may not be suitable candidates as well.
Possible side effects include redness, bumps, rash, and hyperpigmentation. Risks and complications may be reduced by following aftercare instructions, such as quitting smoking two weeks prior to the procedure. In addition, it is recommended to avoid several medications or supplements 10 days before the procedure, including, but not limited to, vitamin E, ibuprofen, and aspirin. At times, antibiotics or antiviral may be prescribed beforehand for vulnerable patients.
Deciding on Laser Skin Resurfacing
Deciding to obtain laser skin resurfacing is not a decision to be taken lightly. However, following a few simple steps can greatly simplify the process.
Firstly, inquire about fees for the procedure.
Secondly, choose the correct procedure for your skin condition. For example, ablative laser skin resurfacing is best for severe skin conditions, such as deep scars and deep wrinkles. In contrast, non-ablative laser skin resurfacing is best for finer lines and wrinkles. It is also gentler with fewer risks. For this reason, it may have to be repeated several times for the desired effect.
Thirdly, know what to expect from the procedure. It can take anywhere from 35 minutes up to 2 hours.
Costs of Laser Skin Resurfacing
The cost of laser skin surfacing varies, often depending on a variety of factors. For example, the geographical location of the medical spa, reputation of the technician, and type of service required are all options that must be factored into the cost. In addition, consider how many treatments will be required, in addition to the part of the body being treated.
In general, ablative laser skin resurfacing costs approximately from $1,936 to $2,330 USD per session, while non-ablative laser skin resurfacing costs approximately$1,031 to $1,201USD per session.
Costs can be further broken down into facility costs, anesthesia fees, and prescription medications.
This procedure is not covered by most insurance companies, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, there are exceptions, including for clients with scars and precancerous growths. Ask your current insurance broker about available options.
Choosing the Right Skin Surfacing Technician
Asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations is a great way to find a laser skin resurfacing technician.
In addition, it is possible to search Google reviews and business websites with client testimonials for the perfect laser skin resurfacing technician. Many now have social media accounts with portfolios as well, so consider following Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts.
Finally, consider asking the laser skin resurfacing technician a series of questions to determine if they inspire confidence and if they possess the required qualifications.
For example, consider asking about their level of experience with laser skin resurfacing, as well as their experience with your specific skin tone and skin conditions. Next, ask to see a portfolio, with before and after photos of clients. Ask what to expect during recovery time, and the procedure itself. Finally, ask how many sessions will be needed for optimal results.
In addition, ask to see certifications and training. For example, dermatologists will be certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery or the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Choosing the perfect laser skin resurfacing technician is now easier than ever. Contact your local medial spa for more information.
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