It seems like everyone is talking about laser treatments these days. But with so many different kinds of lasers and treatments available it can be hard to filter out the noise and select the right option for your unique concern. Lasers offer an amazing skin intervention, offering patients dramatic results to many of their most common skin complaints. Below we’ll explain the ins and outs of laser and light treatments.
What are lasers?
Light is measured in nanometers between wavelengths. General light is composed of a variety of wavelengths emitted at once, whereas laser energy is composed of only one true or pure wavelength. This concentrated beam of pure light energy is customizable and adjustable allowing the laser to reach specific depths and target specific pigments in the skin. Medical-grade lasers emit a pure wavelength of laser energy with high accuracy.
There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers (also known as wounding lasers) target and treat the surface layers of skin, removing it in thin layers. The laser beam destroys the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), while also penetrating and heating the deeper layers (dermis). This strongest type of laser causes significant skin wounds, which can take up to three weeks to heal. Ablative lasers are also capable of achieving dramatic skin renewing results. Non-ablative lasers (non-wounding) bypass the epidermis altogether and specifically target the deeper layer of skin (dermis). This laser damages the collagen layer beneath your skin and stimulates the repair and growth of new collagen, all the while leaving the epidermis intact.
What are light devices?
Light devices such as IPL (intense pulse light) emit various wavelengths at once with varying levels of accuracy. IPL targets irregular pigment and blood vessels through short bursts of light. This light is absorbed by the targeted pigment and disrupts its composition, prompting the body to clear and remove it.
What can laser and light devices treat?
When employed appropriately, both devices are effective for treating a variety of skin concerns.
- Wrinkles
- Age or liver spots
- Hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage
- Uneven skin tone & texture
- Scars
- Acne & acne scars
- Visible veins & vessels
- Unwanted hair
What laser and light treatments are offered at Oakville Plastic Surgery?
GentleMax for laser hair removal & vein removal| This dual wavelength laser combines the efficacy of the 755 nm Alexandrite laser with the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser for unmatched speed, performance and patient safety. This customizable technology can be tailored to target specific pigment in the skin; making it uniquely qualified for laser hair removal and laser vein removal.
Fotofacial RF® for colour correction, sun damage, hyperpigmentation & facial flushing (rosacea)| Using radio frequency (RF) and intense pulse light (IPL) energy, this technology targets and treats pigment in the skin. Used to treat facial flushing, hyperpigmentation and some visible veins and vessels, Fotofacials are a safe and non-invasive way to treat the visible signs of sun damage and aging.
Nd:YAG laser| Using targeted 1064 nm laser energy, this technology targets and treats a variety of skin concerns. Safe for all skin types (1-6), the Nd:YAG laser can treat uneven skin tone, pigmented legions, age and sun spots, port wine stains and beard bumps (PFB). This laser is safe, non-invasive and non-ablative, making it a preferred method for treating the visible signs of sun damage and aging.
Laser treatments are an excellent addition to your current skincare program and a perfect compliment to many surgical procedures. Interested in adding a laser treatment to your current routine? Let us guide you through your treatment options and show you some of our before and after patient photos.We invite you to book a complimentary consultation. Contact us today.