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Cosmetic

Laser Technology

Laser technology has revolutionized dermatology by offering non-invasive, precise, and efficient treatments for various skin conditions. Lasers emit concentrated beams of light that target specific skin issues with minimal impact on surrounding tissue. This allows for minimal downtime and impressive results, making laser treatments popular for cosmetic and medical concerns.

Vascular lasers are specialized devices designed to target and eliminate unwanted blood vessels in the skin. They are highly effective in treating a range of vascular conditions, including:

  • Telangiectasias: Small, dilated blood vessels commonly found on the face.
  • Rosacea: A chronic skin condition characterized by facial redness and visible blood vessels.
  • Cherry Angiomas: Small, benign red bumps composed of blood vessels.
  • Port-Wine Stains: Vascular birthmarks caused by an abnormal overgrowth of blood vessels.

Vascular lasers emit a specific wavelength of light absorbed by the blood within blood vessels. The laser energy heats and destroys the targeted vessels, which are then naturally metabolized by the body during healing. This process reduces redness and diminishes the appearance of vascular lesions.

  • Non-Invasive: No incisions or injections are required.
  • Precision: Targets only the affected vessels without harming surrounding skin.
  • Minimal Downtime: Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately.
  • Effective Results: Noticeable improvement after just a few sessions.

You may feel a mild snapping sensation during the procedure as the laser pulses. Treatment times vary depending on the size and number of areas being addressed. Increased redness and mild swelling are common but often dissipate within hours to days. Bruising may occur, but more significant side effects are uncommon.

Unwanted hair can be a source of frustration for many. Laser hair removal offers a long-lasting solution by reducing hair growth in targeted areas, leaving your skin smoother. The laser emits a concentrated beam of light absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles. The absorbed light converts to heat, scarring the follicles and inhibiting future hair growth. This treatment is effective anywhere on the body as long as the hairs have pigment. If the hairs are white or very light, there is not enough pigment to absorb the laser energy, and the treatment will not be effective.

  • Long-Term Reduction: Significantly reduces hair growth after a series of treatments.
  • Precision: Selectively targets dark, coarse hairs.
  • Convenience: Reduces the need for shaving, waxing, or plucking.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort, often described as a light rubber band that snaps against the skin. Treatment duration depends on the size of the area; treating the underarms takes a few minutes. Mild redness, warmth, and bumpiness may occur post-treatment but generally resolve quickly.

Fractional skin resurfacing is an advanced laser treatment that rejuvenates the skin by addressing a variety of concerns, such as:

  • Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Smooth out signs of aging.
  • Acne Scars and Surgical Scars: Reduces the appearance of scars.
  • Hyperpigmentation: Evens out skin tone by targeting dark spots and sun damage.
  • Skin Texture: Improves overall skin smoothness and radiance.
  • Actinic keratoses: Treats precancerous skin changes that result from chronic sun damage.

This treatment uses laser technology to create microscopic columns of controlled damage in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process. Rather than targeting the entire area, only a fraction of the skin is affected, hence the term “fractional.” The laser targets the epidermis (outer skin layer) and dermis (deeper skin layer), promoting collagen production and the regeneration of healthy skin cells.

  • Customized Treatment: Adjusted to your specific skin concerns and comfort level.
  • Less Downtime: Less invasive than traditional resurfacing methods, with quicker recovery.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Continued improvement over several months as new collagen forms.
  • Medical: In addition to cosmetic benefits, fractional resurfacing can decrease the burden of chronic sun damage that contributes to the growth of skin cancers.

A topical anesthetic ointment will be applied about 60 minutes before the procedure to make it more comfortable. You will feel warmth and a prickling/stinging sensation during the procedure. Some downtime should be expected, with post-treatment redness and swelling lasting a few days, followed by peeling. During this recovery time, gentle skincare with strict sun protection is essential to healing.

At a Glance

Philip Eliades, MD, FAAD

  • Board-Certified Dermatologist
  • Served as Chief Resident at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  • Author of numerous peer-reviewed research articles in leading Dermatology journals
  • Learn more
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