The Laser Way to a Fresher Face
Short bursts of heat and light can remove damaged layers and encourage new skin growth.
Dermatologists have come up with a number of ways to remove tired and damaged layers of skin to encourage new growth beneath them. The result: a fresher and brighter looking face, neck, or even hands. While techniques such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels sound harsh, they’ve turned out to be both effective and popular. A new weapon in dermatologists’ arsenals is laser light, which is applied to the affected areas in short bursts to achieve the same goals of eliminate dead skin cells and stimulating growth in the layers beneath them.
This technique, sometimes referred to as ablation, removes just 10 to 30 microns of the epidermis through vaporization. At the same time, the heat generated creates a coagulation process that heals the layers beneath and also starts new collagen growth, which is key to restoring skin elasticity and erasing fine wrinkles.
Laser manufacturer Cutera’s latest implement, called Pearl, has been earning plaudits since it achieved FDA approval in March 2007. It is designed to treat fine lines on the face and neck, uneven skin texture, and light and dark spots caused by sun damage.
According to Cutera, the full facial treatment that Pearl delivers means fewer visits to the office. Typically only one to two treatments of 15 minutes are needed, and the collagen growth effect can continue for up to six weeks. Unlike first-generation laser treatments, Pearl is gentle enough to prevent the kind of post-visit redness that might make you want to stay out of sight for more than a week. A sunburned look is typical, but after a few days, the top layer of skin peels off to expose the newer and healthier skin beneath.
Because so many options for skin rejuvenation are available these days, it makes sense to consult with a dermatologist to find out which technique will suit you best, and while you’re there, get recommendations on qualified practitioners. Be sure to work only with professionals and avoid storefront day spas that sometimes rent laser equipment and put it in the hands of workers who may not be fully trained in its proper use.
Read More on This Topic:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Skin Rejuvenation
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/patients_consumers/procedures/SkinResurfacing.cfm
Pearl by Cutera
http://www.cutera.com/pearl/patients/
