In your quest for youthful, radiant skin, you often explore various treatments and procedures. Laser treatments for the face have gained immense popularity in recent years, promising impressive results without the need for invasive surgery. In this blog, our experts will explain the types of laser treatments for the face and their effectiveness.
5 Types of Laser Treatments for the Face
Laser treatments come in various forms, each designed to address specific skin concerns. Here, we will explore five of the most sought-after types:
1. Fractional Laser Resurfacing
How does it work?
Fractional laser resurfacing works by using a laser that emits thousands of microscopic laser beams, targeting a fraction of the skin’s surface at a time. This process creates tiny columns of thermal injury in the skin, which stimulate the body’s natural healing response. As the skin repairs itself, it produces new collagen and elastin fibres, leading to improved skin texture and reduced imperfections. Essentially, this treatment encourages the skin to heal and regenerate, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Fractional laser resurfacing targets various skin concerns like wrinkles and fine lines, acne scars, surgical scars, age spots and sun damage, uneven skin tone and stretch marks.
Does it hurt?
Fractional laser resurfacing may cause mild discomfort, often described as a snapping or prickling sensation. A topical anaesthetic is typically applied to minimize this discomfort.
2. CO2 Laser Treatment
How does it work?
How does it work? CO2 laser treatments are ablative, meaning they vaporise the outer layers of the skin. This controlled damage triggers a deep healing process within the skin. As the skin heals, it produces fresh, healthy tissue to replace the removed layers. CO2 lasers are known for their effectiveness in addressing deep wrinkles, scars, and other skin imperfections by promoting significant collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
CO2 laser treatment is used to address more severe skin issues like deep wrinkles and lines, acne scars, skin laxity, sun damage and age spots, and uneven pigmentation.
Does it hurt?
CO2 laser therapy for the face can be more painful, but patients are often provided with local anaesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort.
3. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light Therapy)
How does it work?
IPL therapy uses high-intensity light pulses, which target specific chromophores, such as melanin or haemoglobin, in the skin. These targeted chromophores absorb the light energy, leading to the breakup of pigmentation, reduction in redness, and elimination of unwanted blood vessels. The skin’s natural healing process then removes the treated imperfections, revealing a more even and youthful complexion.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy targets a range of skin concerns, primarily focusing on skin discolouration like sunspots and freckles, redness and flushing (rosacea), vascular issues, such as broken capillaries, hair removal and signs of photoaging (fine lines and skin texture).
Does it hurt?
IPL laser therapy for the face is relatively painless, with a sensation likened to a rubber band snapping against the skin.
4.Laser Hair Removal
How does it work?
Laser hair removal relies on the principle of selective photothermolysis. The laser emits a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle. This energy is converted into heat, which damages the follicle’s ability to grow hair. Over multiple sessions depending on the laser hair removal machine, the hair follicles become progressively weaker and less capable of producing hair. Laser hair removal therapy is effective in reducing or eliminating unwanted facial hair, offering long-term results.
Laser hair removal is effective in addressing concerns like unwanted facial hair, excessive body hair, ingrown hairs, razor bumps and skin irritation.
Does it hurt?
While not typically painful, laser hair removal can cause a warm, tingling sensation. Most patients find it tolerable.
5. Q-Switch Laser
How does it work?
A Q-switch laser operates by using a specialised optical device which generates extremely brief, high-energy pulses of laser light. This device blocks the release of energy until it reaches a critical level, resulting in a rapid and powerful burst of laser energy.
Q-switch lasers can be used for different purposes like tattoo removal, pigmented lesion removal and skin rejuvenation.
Does it hurt?
In general, most people report feeling a snapping or stinging sensation during the procedure, but the discomfort is typically brief and tolerable.
Laser Hair Removal at Bodycraft Clinic
At Bodycraft Clinic, we use the advanced Soprano Ice™ cooling technology and the Diode Laser Technology approved by the US FDA, which is a highly effective and virtually painless laser hair removal treatment. It operates by using laser pulses to target and destroy hair follicles, thereby reducing hair growth in undesired areas. Additionally, this service aids in minimising ingrown hairs. For optimal results, we suggest undergoing six to eight sessions. It’s important to note that laser hair reduction is not merely a temporary solution; it offers a lasting reduction in hair growth.
Takeaway
Laser treatments for the face can provide impressive results in improving skin quality, reducing signs of ageing, and even eliminating unwanted facial hair. While some discomfort may be involved, the long-term benefits often outweigh the temporary sensations. It’s essential to consult with a licensed and experienced practitioner to determine the most suitable laser therapy for your face.
FAQs Around Types of Laser Treatment for the Face
1. Is laser treatment safe for the face?
Laser treatments for the face are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals. However, there may be some temporary side effects like redness or swelling. Follow post-treatment care instructions for the best results.
2. How much is laser treatment for the face?
The cost of laser treatments varies based on the type of treatment, the number of sessions required, and your location. It’s best to consult with a clinic for a personalized quote.
3. How to prep for laser hair removal on the face?
Before laser hair removal, shave the treatment area, avoid sun exposure, and discontinue the use of self-tanning products. Also, ensure your skin is clean and free from makeup or lotions on the treatment day.
