Laser treatment for wrinkles has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. But what is it about laser treatment that makes it so effective?
A laser is a device that shines a powerful light through a prism. The term “laser” originated as an acronym for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.”
Lasers vary significantly in their wavelengths, powers, and applications. Lasers are used in drilling and cutting, aligning and guiding, and measurement and scanning. They are also used in curing, lasing, communications, printing, medicine, surgery, and skin treatment.
If you’re considering laser treatment for wrinkles, here’s a tell-all guide on all you need to know about the process.
The Aging Process
As we age, our bodies produce less collagen. Collagen is a protein that acts as connective tissue, supporting the skin and other body parts.
Our skin loses its natural elasticity as we age because there isn’t enough collagen to keep it tight. Our skin also loses fat cells that give it form, making our face look worn and tired. Because of this loss of fatty tissue and collagen, wrinkles begin to form on the front.
In addition to producing less collagen, older skin doesn’t shed dead skin cells as quickly as younger skin. Dead skin cells begin to build upon the skin’s surface, clogging pores and causing acne breakouts and other problems.
The Laser Process
Lasers are intense beams of light, have a single wavelength, and are focused. These characteristics allow them to be used for various purposes, including removing unwanted hair, shrinking tumors, and resurfacing the skin.
In the case of wrinkle reduction, the laser stimulates new collagen formation beneath the wrinkle — lifting it from beneath and smoothing it out. The process is similar to dermabrasion or chemical peeling in that it removes layers of skin but has the added benefit of stimulating collagen growth.
This results in smoother and tighter skin than what can be achieved with other methods alone.
Types of Laser Treatment for Wrinkles
There are two types of laser treatment for wrinkles; ablative and non-ablative. Both are effective, but they have different results.
Ablative
Ablative lasers are typically used in treatments to treat more advanced signs of aging like wrinkles, mottled skin, and sun damage. The ablative process removes the top layer of skin, called the epidermis.
Non-Ablative
Non-ablative lasers can also remove blackheads, refine pores, remove unwanted freckles and sun damage, improve acne scars, and even out pigmentation in the skin.
The Final Word
The laser treatment for wrinkles works on a simple principle: the laser heats the area under your skin, stimulating collagen production. Collagen gives your skin elasticity, and the more you have of it, the younger you look.
A specialist performs the best laser treatment for wrinkles. The doctor will examine you and find out exactly what areas of your face need to be treated. You may need to get more than one type of treatment if you have deep lines or prominent wrinkles around your eyes or forehead.
If you have acne scars, you may need to get several treatments to get rid of them.