3 Things To Know If You’re Having Laser Skin Resurfacing

Patients who want to enhance the tone and texture of their skin may benefit the most from laser-based treatments like Pearl™ Fractional Laser. New Jersey’s South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center believes that it’s best for patients considering a treatment like this to learn as much as they can about their options to help them decide which type of laser treatment they need.

Everyone wants clear, vibrant skin, but complexion is affected by aging, sun exposure, and other forms of stress or damage that are difficult to avoid. Fortunately, lasers can target a wide variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, scars, and blemishes. Lasers are much more effective than at home treatments for restoring brighter, more youthful skin, and knowing the basic facts about these skin care treatments can help you get the most stunning results while minimizing side effects.

See below for the top five things you should know about if you’re having laser treatments for your skin.

1. There Are Different Categories of Lasers 

Not all lasers work the same way, and there is no one type that’s ideal for all patients and skin concerns. If you’re trying to decide which type is best for you, it’s best to focus on your individual goals—including what you’re hoping to address and what type of results you’re expecting. There are two main categories: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers are the most powerful types, removing the top layer of skin and part of the second layer, triggering the body to create new collagen and other beneficial elements of youthful-looking skin. Wrinkles, sun damage, sunspots, and other blemishes are reduced. Non-ablative lasers are a gentler option designed to deliver energy into the deeper part of the skin without harming the surface for more gradual improvements. Either option can come from fractional lasers, which split up the energy into thousands of tiny columns that treat a fraction of the skin at a given time while leaving small parts of the skin intact to speed up the recovery time.

2. Talk to Your Provider About Any Medications You Are Taking

Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, can affect the safety and results of laser-based procedures. Tell your provider about your medical history, any medications you may be taking, and any medical conditions you have. If you’re prone to getting cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth, know that laser skin resurfacing can trigger breakouts. There are also medications that can increase the risk of bleeding after the procedure, poor healing, and scarring, so talk to your medical providers about any prescriptions you have. Quit smoking several weeks before and after a treatment to reduce the risk of complications and ensure optimal results. 

3. Sun Protection Will Be Critical Before and After Laser Treatments 

Sun exposure is one of the major causes of premature skin aging. It causes wrinkles, sunspots, loss of elasticity, and other forms of damage to the skin. To maintain healthy, clear skin, it’s recommended that you take steps to limit sun exposure throughout the year. Sun protection will be even more essential before and after a laser skin resurfacing treatment, because any cosmetic treatment that involves exfoliating or damaging the top or middle layers of skin will make your skin especially sun sensitive. If you show up to the appointment with any type of sunburn or tan, you won’t be able to have laser skin resurfacing. Additionally, after you have had laser treatments, you should protect your skin while it’s healing, since sun exposure could cause an additional scar. Apply a broad-spectrum, physical sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours whenever you go outside if you’re recovering from a laser treatment. Chemical sunscreens can be irritating to sensitive skin. 

For more information, contact New Jersey’s South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center. Call (856) 810-9888 or fill out a contact form to schedule a consultation.