So you’re thinking about getting a laser skin rejuvenation treatment to finally get the clear, glowing complexion you’ve always wanted, but you have some questions. Before diving right into your laser skin rejuvenation appointment, read over some of these laser treatment FAQs so you know just what to expect.
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Fall Is Laser Season
Yep, there’s an “in” and an “out” time to get laser treatments, and it just so happens to be that autumn is one of the best times of year to schedule your first appointment. While you can certainly get laser treatments any time you want, there are a few notable advantages to starting in the fall.
First, your skin will be more sensitive to the sun during laser treatments, so you’ll have to put the brakes on sunbathing. If you wait until the fall, though, this shouldn’t be much of a problem at all. Moving into winter skincare, keeping a tanned look usually isn’t on your mind. Then, come next summer, your treatments will be finished and you can enjoy clear, healthy-looking skin in time for vacay.
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You Might Feel a Prickling Sensation
Some people say that laser treatments feel a little like getting snapped with a rubber band, while others report a tingling or prickling sensation. Or, you might not feel a thing. It really depends on the type of laser used and whether or not a local anesthetic is applied beforehand.
Generally, ablative lasers, which remove the outer layer of your skin, can cause some discomfort and are often paired with an injectable local anesthetic or sedation for this reason. However, non-ablative lasers are usually pretty painless, and a topical numbing cream should be enough to keep you comfortable.
The type of laser you need will depend on your skin type and concerns.
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Not All Lasers Are Right for All Skin Tones
Lasers have come a long way in recent years, so there are now options that are available for just about every skin tone. However, not every laser will be the best fit for you, since people with darker skin tones are at a higher risk for experiencing hyperpigmentation and scarring.
The best way to figure out which laser is the right choice for you is to sit down with a board-certified dermatologist who can assess your skin tone and needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
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You Might Need More Than One Session
In some cases, a one-and-done laser treatment could give you the result you’re looking for. In many others, though, expect to schedule a few different appointments spaced several weeks apart to see the best laser results. But the good news is that laser skin rejuvenation doesn’t require downtime, so you should be able to get right back to your normal routine immediately after each appointment.
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Stick with a Pro If You Want Great Results
The market is flooded with DIY devices that claim to give you in-office results from the comfort of your own home. But the truth is that these at-home devices are not nearly as effective as the lasers in your dermatologist’s office, yet they can still cause some serious damage to your skin if you don’t know what you’re doing.
If you want to see great results with minimal side effects and risk of complications, stick with an experienced professional. Your skin will thank you in the long run.
Lynn M. Klein, M.D. is a renowned board-certified dermatologist, laser surgeon, and cosmetic dermatologist. She has been helping patients to maintain their healthiest skin for over 20 years. Dr. Klein uses minimally invasive procedures to achieve maximum skin care results and long term benefits, which are the hallmarks of her successful Bala Cynwyd dermatology practice.
