Lasers are a great way to treat common skin conditions and resurface new skin cells. Our versatile laser peels can treat an array of concerns you may have, and winter is the perfect time to give it a try.
Here’s how they work, what they treat, why you should book one this month, and how to prepare for your procedure.
How Laser Peels Work
Laser Peels are an alternative to chemical peels or dermabrasion and rely on laser light to improve the appearance of your skin or various minor facial flaws.
A laser treatment works by emitting a wavelength of high-energy light, which creates heat and destroys diseased cells when focused on a certain skin condition. The Erbium YAG lasers used at our practice are optimal for skin ablation primarily due to the wavelength this technology generates.
Erbium YAG lasers have a very efficient beam to target water and relatively limited hemoglobin absorption. The Erbium YAG laser energy targets the water in your skin cells, vaporizing the cells to remove micro-layers of skin at a time. The device is also fractionated, creating micro-channels in the skin that trigger the body to generate new cells and produce more collagen. These processes lead to smoother and more youthful skin, with a visible reduction in lines, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.*
Because water is such a critical component in the epidermal and dermal tissue, the 2,940 nm wavelength produced by Erbium YAG lasers is capable of rapidly vaporizing water residing in the skin. This unique wavelength delivers an almost instant skin ablation while limiting heat damage in the surrounding area.
The varied treatment depths of Erbium YAG lasers are mostly credited to the significantly greater absorption of water found in the epidermal and dermal tissue. The result? Improved skin tone, texture, and coloration.*
What Laser Peels Treat
One of the best things about laser peels is their versatility. Laser peels can reduce wrinkles and scars, even out skin coloring and texture, remove lesions, and leave the skin tighter and firmer than it was pre-treatment.
It’s important to note, however, that lasers do not treat active acne, and if you have a darker skin tone, it may not be the right treatment for you due to the way lasers respond to pigmentation. Because there are so many options and different types of lasers, we can work with you to determine the best one for your particular needs.
There’s not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to laser treatments, and the type and number of treatments needed will differ from person to person.
The depth of the effect is very controllable and is one of the key discussion points when consulting with our patients. Our team will work with you to understand how much downtime you can afford. During your consultation, our team will also give you a clear idea of the expected results.
Why You Should Book a Laser Peel
While you’ll reap the benefits of a laser treatment no matter when you go, wintertime is the perfect season to commit, with less daylight and more time spent indoors. Following your treatment, you may be irritated for up to a few days, and avoiding the sun is imperative.
When You Come In for Your Laser Peel
Prepare for your peel ahead of your treatment date by writing down any and all questions you may have. Prior to your procedure, we’ll sit down with you and talk through each and every one of them to ensure your maximum comfort. Additionally, avoid tanning or heavy sun exposure for a month ahead of your appointment, and don’t book other invasive treatments like dermabrasions or chemical peels.
The results of your Erbium YAG laser treatment will become apparent once the skin is fully healed. This may take anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks, depending on the intensity of your treatment. Recovery also varies based on the intensity of your treatment. Lighter treatments only take a few days of healing, while more intense procedures could require ten days to 2 weeks.*
Find out if a laser peel is the right choice for you and your skin. We’re here to help you feel like the most confident version of you: 256-355-5585.
*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.
