There comes a point in all our lives where all the skin care products in the world can’t slow the natural aging process. At Dundee Dermatology in West Dundee, IL we are eager to help you halt aging in its tracks with our laser skin resurfacing treatments.
What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing are a class of energy-based treatments that use advanced technology to exfoliate skin and penetrate the sub-dermal layers of skin to induce the body’s natural regenerative abilities. Skin resurfacing treatments done with lasers are incredibly diverse as they are able to treat a wide range of skin concerns. Overall, skin resurfacing treatments with lasers are anti-aging treatments that are appropriate for most patients.
How It Works
Laser resurfacing treatments are performed by a skilled technician who applies the treatment device to your skin. Laser treatments emit a small amount of heat and often have a faint tingling sensation. Depending on the type of treatment you have and the design of the system, laser treatments can help accomplish your desired appearance goals in as little as one or two treatments. There are two main types of laser resurfacing treatments: ablative and non-ablative.
Ablative Lasers
Ablative lasers are a collection of skin resurfacing systems that essentially give the skin micro-injuries that prompt the skin’s own healing abilities. Ablative lasers are considered minimally-invasive and are most effective at removing the outer layers of skin, much like deep exfoliation. Ablative lasers are able to reverse many superficial skin concerns, such as dark spots or sun damage, as well as smooth skin texture.
Non Ablative Lasers
Non-ablative lasers are a type of skin resurfacing systems that do not injure the skin. Instead, these are systems that are usually made with light or ultrasound technology that stimulates the sub-dermal layers of skin. Non-ablative lasers are a non-invasive treatment that are best for addressing the root cause of skin concerns. Non-ablative lasers are particularly useful for stimulating collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines or deep wrinkles.
What It Does
When patients hear about laser resurfacing for the skin, their initial assumption is that lasers only address issues on the skin surface. However, laser treatments are much more diverse than this as they can address both superficial and sub-dermal layers at once. And while the skin concerns that can be treated depend on the laser system being used, most laser skin treatments address concerns such as:
- Blemishes and dark spots
- Acne scars and acne
- Fine lines and expression lines
- Wrinkles and deep wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Uneven pigmentation
- Uneven skin texture
Our Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments
At Dundee Dermatology, we specialize in two types of laser treatments for resurfacing skin. During your consultation appointment, we will help you determine which of our laser systems are best suited to your individual needs.
Fraxel
Fraxel is a non-invasive laser skin treatment that uses light energy to penetrate the sub-dermal layers of skin to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. These two proteins in the skin provide structural support. Fraxel can smooth the texture and tone of skin, reverse fine lines and wrinkles, and even eliminate some surface skin concerns, such as sun damage or sun freckles.
Lumenis Fractional CO2
The Lumenis Fractional CO2 laser is a minimally invasive ablative laser skin treatment that resurfaces both the outer and inner layers of skin. Lumenis removes the outermost surface layers of skin to eliminate blemishes, acne scarring, and sun damage. Lumenis also penetrates the sub-dermal layers of skin to smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Remove Wrinkles?
Yes. Laser skin treatments for resurfacing skin will remove wrinkles. Depending on the type of laser system being used and how well your body responds to treatment, laser treatments can reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, smooth out moderate wrinkles, and eliminate mild wrinkles. Laser skin treatments are particularly useful for minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and around the mouth.
Is Laser Resurfacing Painful?
Laser skin treatments are not painful. It is standard practice to use a topical numbing cream for laser skin treatments to ensure your comfort for the duration of the treatment. Most patients report only a little sensation on the skin, such as tingling or warmth. These sensations are temporary and last only as long as the treatment is being applied.
What Is Recovery Like?
Recovery for laser skin treatments is usually very short. Most treatments have little to no downtime. Recovery from laser treatments will include regular moisturizing, application of sunscreen, and avoiding excessive heat or direct sun exposure.
Is There a Best Time for Laser Treatments?
Many dermatologists recommend scheduling initial laser treatments during the fall and winter months, as it limits the amount of sun exposure you will have post-treatment.
Is Laser Resurfacing Safe for All Skin?
Some laser systems are not recommended for people with darker complexions because of the risk of creating hyperpigmentation, or lighter patches of skin. However, there are many non-ablative laser treatments that can be used on medium-to-dark complexions. We will help you determine whether laser treatments are right for your complexion.
Who Are Ideal Candidates?
There are many ideal candidates for laser skin treatments. Any woman or man who is not satisfied with the overall appearance or texture of their skin should consider laser skin treatments. You may be a good candidate for these treatments if you want to:
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Correct blemishes
- Smooth scarring
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Remove Wrinkles With Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments!
When you’re as tired of trying new ways to prevent wrinkles, it’s time for a better solution. If you think that laser skin resurfacing might be right for you, contact Dundee Dermatology in West Dundee, IL to schedule your initial consultation!