Laser Treatments

Laser Treatment Overview

Laser treatments are advanced cosmetic procedures that use focused light energy to address a variety of skin and hair concerns. For skin, lasers can treat issues like sun damage, pigmentation, acne scars, wrinkles and uneven texture by stimulating collagen production or resurfacing the skin. These treatments can improve skin tone, reduce fine lines and promote a smoother, more youthful appearance. For hair removal, lasers target the melanin in hair follicles, effectively reducing unwanted hair growth over time. Laser hair removal is popular for long-lasting results on areas like the legs, underarms, face and bikini line. Both skin and hair treatments are non-invasive, with minimal downtime, making lasers a versatile and effective solution for many cosmetic needs.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Overview

If you want to improve the surface and appearance of your skin, laser skin resurfacing may be right for you. Also known as skin rejuvenation, laser skin resurfacing can reduce fine lines as well as surface irregularities such as scarring, uneven pigmentation and sun damage. A variety of lasers and intense pulse light devices help to achieve a wide range of benefits, including improving the texture of your skin and restoring a youthful, healthy appearance.

How is laser skin resurfacing performed?

When you undergo laser skin resurfacing, you will be placed under local anesthesia (unless there are special circumstances). The skin/area will be cleaned thoroughly, and an antibiotic will be applied to kill any bacteria. The laser then passes over the dedicated area of skin, emitting brief, high-intensity beams of light to remove the outer layers. You may hear a “zapping” sound or smell burning during the treatment.

Once the skin rejuvenation procedure is complete, the treated area will be covered with a protective ointment or bandage. The entire process can last anywhere from five minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the extent of the area to be treated.

Am I a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing?

Of the many men and women who visit us, the best candidates for laser skin resurfacing are non-smokers who are interested in treating facial wrinkles, age spots, sun damage or slight scarring. Another important factor is skin type and color. Those with very dark or sensitive skin may not be suitable candidates. In addition, if a patient is prone to cold sores or has active acne, laser skin resurfacing may not be the best procedure of choice.

What can I expect after laser skin resurfacing?

Patients typically experience some swelling, bruising and itching following their skin rejuvenation procedure. This can be reduced with cold packs and over-the-counter pain medication. Patients may need to wear a bandage, which must be kept dry. This will need to be changed a few days after the procedure.

Patients will also receive instructions on how to cleanse the facial area, and will be directed to apply ointment to the treated area daily. Scabs may form, but it is important not to pick at them, since this could result in scarring. In addition, it is best to stay out of the sun for at least six to 12 months following laser skin resurfacing to ensure optimal results.

Laser Hair Removal

If you are tired of shaving, waxing and plucking unsightly hair, consider laser hair removal, which uses an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) system to eliminate unwanted hair for up to 17 weeks at a time. This procedure is non-invasive and is a relatively painless procedure. Laser hair removal is safe for most skin types and hair colors, using bursts of light energy to remove hair and hinder further growth.

We perform laser hair removal using an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) system, which directs bursts of light at the hair follicles, effectively destroying them and inhibiting re-growth. The procedure can take anywhere from ten minutes to one hour, depending on the treatment area.

How is laser hair removal performed?

A topical anesthetic will be applied to sensitive areas, and you will be given special eyewear to protect your eyes from the light. One of our trained medical professionals will then use a small hand piece to touch your skin with flashes of IPL. While results are long lasting, you may need up to eight laser hair removal treatments to ensure the best outcome.

Am I a good candidate for laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a safe and effective procedure for almost anyone interested in ridding their body of unwanted hair. However, the best candidates for laser hair removal tend to be people with dark, coarse hair and light skin. Patients with darker skin may still benefit from the treatment, but to a lesser extent.

The following is a list of criteria you should consider before undergoing laser hair removal:

Blonde, grey or red hair is more difficult to treat.
Tanned patients must let their tan fade before treatment.
Skin disorders, such as psoriasis, cystic acne and dermatitis may preclude you from laser hair removal.
Anyone taking Retin-A^®, Accutane^® or other select medications are not suitable candidates.
Pregnant women should not undergo laser hair removal.
Anyone with a pacemaker or metal screws in the treatment area should not receive laser hair removal.

What can I expect after laser hair removal?

Following laser hair removal, you may experience swelling, soreness and redness of the treatment area. You should gently cleanse the area with a mild soap and apply any lotions or ointments that have been prescribed. You will be advised to stay out of the sun or wear a strong sun block if you’re going to be exposed to sunlight.

Laser hair removal requires minimal down time, and you are able to resume normal activities immediately. We advise, however, for patients to not continue waxing or using depilatory creams after the treatment.