Sure, lasers and various light-emitting devices can help reduce signs of aging and fade signs of sun damage. With so many IPL laser procedures available, knowing the basics of each is essential to making the best decision for your concerns.
a complicated subject
The subject of lasers, intense pulsed light (IPL), or other forms of skin rejuvenation is a complicated one. If you’ve been doing your homework, you’ve probably come across a lot of complex technical information that’s hard to figure out. Deciding which IPL laser or light treatment can be further complicated if marketers make unrealistic claims and promises. Therefore, it is important to find a dermatologist who is clear about the pros and cons, and the improvements you can expect to see.
Two types of procedures
Laser and IPL laser treatments are either ablative or non-ablative. Nonablative treatments target the lower layers of the skin, while ablative treatments target both the surface and lower layers of the skin. Which system you choose depends on the results you are looking for and the risk you are willing to take.
Ablative lasers can:
- make a significant difference in the appearance of wrinkles,
- significantly attenuate skin discolorations,
- erase years of sun damage by replacing damaged skin with healthier skin.
Risks of ablative procedures include:
- swelling, crusting, suppuration,
- bleeding, peeling, redness,
- significant irritation that requires more time to heal, and
- long-term skin discoloration and scarring.
After ablative laser treatment, the skin weeps, bleeds, and crusts form. It takes about two weeks before you look vaguely normal. If you choose an ablative treatment, carefully follow the post-operative care instructions. Inconsistency or incomplete care can cause infection, delay healing, and increase irritation.
Non-ablative resurfacing, such as IPL laser therapy, does not have any of the side effects associated with ablative resurfacing. However, it does not produce the same dramatic results as ablative resurfacing. And multiple treatments are required to get the most noticeable result. The advantage of nonablative resurfacing is its minimal downtime.
Non-ablative lasers can:
- remove some skin discolorations,
- improve and potentially eliminate redness,
- improve minor wrinkles and fine lines, and
- stimulate collagen production after repeated treatments.
Risks of nonablative procedures include:
- swelling and possible bruising,
- a reaction similar to a sunburn,
- Temporary darkening of the treated spots.
There is no better laser
Despite what you probably hear, there is no one best laser or IPL treatment for everyone. Which one is used depends on several factors, including your concerns, as well as the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. There is no single best laser or light-emitting treatment; rather, there are several options and each one has its pros and cons.
Regardless of the device you and your dermatologist choose, make sure you are fully informed about what to expect and what is required of you before and after the procedure. And of course, none of these treatments will deliver great results if you’re not diligent about using a great skin care routine that includes daily sun protection.
