How Do Lasers Work and What Are They?
Fine lines, wrinkles, acne marks, and uneven texture are common reasons patients look into laser resurfacing. At-home products, like masks, scrubs, glycolic acid, and retinol, can help support skin texture between visits. In-office options such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and microneedling cause minor, controlled skin injuries that may help address these concerns. For some patients, a provider may recommend a laser as another option to consider.
A laser (an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation”) is a tool used in dermatology and facial esthetics that applies light and heat to address skin tone, texture, and coloration. It works by creating a controlled effect on the treated tissue, which triggers the skin’s own response process, one that may change the skin’s appearance over time.
The general concept is similar to how exercise creates small amounts of stress on muscle tissue that the body then responds to over time. Lasers use light and heat energy in a comparable way, applying controlled effects to the skin’s surface that prompt a response from the body.
Some research has looked at changes in collagen levels following laser treatment, though findings and how long changes last vary by individual. Collagen naturally declines with age, which is one factor associated with fine lines and wrinkles. Individual results vary.
Laser resurfacing has become more common in recent years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, laser resurfacing procedures rose by 248 percent from 2000 to 2018, from 170,951 to 600,000.
Recognize That Maintenance Is Up to You
If you invest time and money into an in-office laser treatment, following a consistent at-home skincare routine can help you get the most out of it. Retinoids, vitamin C serum, and sunscreen are commonly recommended for daily use at home.
Staying consistent at home matters as much as the in-office visit. Skipping sun protection, going without your recommended retinoid routine, or picking at treated skin can all work against your results. As with most things, be cautious of any claim that sounds too good to be true.
Maintain a Healthy Sense of Realism When It Comes to Your Expectations
Lasers can produce noticeable changes for some patients, but they are not a guaranteed or one-time fix. Depending on the laser type, settings, and your skin’s condition, results can take time to appear, and repeat sessions may be needed.
Ongoing maintenance is generally part of the process for treatments involving the skin’s outer cell layers, similar to how a gel manicure or a hair color eventually grows out and needs to be redone. These cells continue to turn over, so most patients will want to maintain a home routine between visits. Results can last for a period of time but are generally not permanent, and follow-up sessions may be part of a longer-term plan.
Schedule a consultation with a licensed provider to discuss which laser resurfacing option, if any, may fit your skin and goals. Individual results vary.
