What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
At Nirvana Med Spa in Little Rock, AR, laser skin resurfacing is a nonsurgical cosmetic treatment that uses pulsating beams of light to remove damaged skin cell layers. Alma Harmony XL Pro skin resurfacing is great for treating facial wrinkles and lines and for improving skin problems, such as acne scars and pigmentation. Sometimes referred to as a laser peel, fractional skin resurfacing is a great procedure for people who want clearer, softer, and youthful-looking skin. Based on the condition of your skin, we will create a customized treatment plan that meets your cosmetic goals. With most laser skin resurfacing procedures, you will require some recovery time. If you have any questions or concerns, our physicians will provide detailed information about the treatment during your consultation.
what are the Types of Laser skin resurfacing?
Nirvana Med Spa offers three types of laser skin resurfacing procedures that we choose based on the condition of your skin. We use some lasers for milder cases of skin damage while others are more aggressive:
- Ablative Laser Treatments
Ablative lasers eliminate thin layers of skin, similar to a deep chemical peel. With a high level of control, an ablative laser allows the technician to reduce skin damage. Ablative lasers are best for firming the skin and treating acne scars and wrinkles. - Non-Ablative Laser Treatments
Non-ablative lasers don't remove any skin — the light simply creates micro-damage to the skin cells, which prompts the body's natural healing response. Non-ablative procedures are ideal for addressing fine lines and wrinkles on patients who are willing to wait a few months for strong results. - Fractional Laser Treatments
Fractional lasers are both non-ablative and ablative, which create micro-damage in the lower skin layers. The skin's automatic healing leads to firmer, healthier skin. Fractional lasers may also help treat fine lines, deep wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage, and uneven pigmentation.
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What are the benefits of laser skin resurfacing?
Over-the-counter skin care products can only do so much to improve the appearance of your skin. Laser skin resurfacing is a quick and easy way to achieve a beautiful and youthful complexion again. This advanced treatment can enhance the texture and tone of your skin, reduce wrinkles and lines, and diminish acne scars and other unwanted blemishes. Our cutting-edge clinic offers ablative, non-ablative, and fractional laser skin resurfacing options to suit the specific needs of each patient.
am i a candidate for laser skin resurfacing?
When deciding which laser peel is right for your needs, you will have several things to consider. Laser skin resurfacing works well for men and women who are unhappy with their skin's appearance. If you have sun damage, age spots, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, or redness concerns, laser skin resurfacing can help improve your complexion. Also, laser skin resurfacing is ideal for individuals with rough skin, scaly patches, or other complexion problems. If you have very dark skin or active acne outbreaks, we do not recommend a laser peel. Also, you will require some recovery time after a laser peel. Some patients, based on their skin condition, may need about 2 – 3 weeks to recover.
how is laser skin resurfacing performed?
Before performing a more intense laser peel treatment, we may prescribe a retinoid cream to use for a few weeks. The retinoid helps prepare the skin for optimal results. Additionally, for increased comfort throughout your procedure, we may prescribe a pain reliever to minimize pain. If your complexion only needs mild improvement, we can apply local anesthesia to numb the treatment areas. For the full complexion or more intense laser treatments, we may also administer sedation to help you remain relaxed. Throughout the procedure, you will lie in a comfortable treatment chair while the device passes over the skin. The laser targets specific treatment areas so the skin nearby remains safe. You will feel the heat from the laser followed by a cold blast of air from the system's built-in cooling device. The laser energy eliminates damaged and dead skin cells and stimulates collagen production.
how long is recovery after laser skin resurfacing?
Following light peels, a healing ointment is applied to the skin and you can return home for your recovery. Initially, the skin will look red, and you will experience irritation and swelling. These symptoms subside in a few days; however, the skin peeling process lasts for about 3 – 5 days. If you undergo a deeper laser peel, your recovery period will last longer. After an intense peel, we will most likely cover the treatment areas with dressings. Symptoms, such as irritation, burning, and swelling, will intensify. To help reduce these side effects, we may prescribe medication. The recovery time associated with a more intense laser treatment can last 2 – 3 weeks. For any type of peel, patients should reduce excess sun exposure and use sun protection throughout the day. No matter the level of your peel, the treated skin will naturally flake, crust, and peel away. To ensure your skin heals properly and to avoid any scarring, you should wear sun protection and avoid picking at your peeling skin. Once the peeling has finished, your skin will feel softer and look clearer, younger, and rejuvenated.
Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQ
How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
Laser skin resurfacing costs will vary based on the treatment type you get. During your initial consultation, Dr. Hashmi will ask about your concerns and goals before reviewing the different types of resurfacing treatments. Then, she can help you decide on your resurfacing method and discuss costs. Nirvana Med Spa often offers treatment specials and packages, so be sure to ask in your appointment.
What's the best type of resurfacing for me?
Dr. Hashmi at Nirvana Med Spa will help you decide which laser resurfacing option is best for your concerns and goals in your consultation. The best treatment for you will depend on the condition of your skin, your skin problems, and the skin depth you want your treatment to reach. How long you are willing to give your recovery may also be an important consideration when choosing your treatment type. If you are in doubt, it's best to select a milder treatment to see how you like your outcomes and adjust as needed for your second treatment.
How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?
Dr. Hashmi at Nirvana Med Spa in Little Rock, AR or someone on her staff will talk to you about how you can help your skin heal after a laser resurfacing treatment. The number one rule is do not peel or pick flaking skin. Doing this could cause long-term damage, including scars. You need to skip all hair removal methods on the treated skin, which means no shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams. We will suggest a cream to help soothe treated areas.
Should I get laser skin resurfacing, a chemical peel, or dermabrasion?
After listening to your concerns, Dr. Hashmi will help you decide if laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion, or a chemical will achieve your goals. While all three rejuvenate the surface of the skin, each has pros and cons. In your initial consultation at Nirvana Med Spa in Little Rock, AR, Dr. Hashmi will discuss each option and make a suggestion for your treatment plan.
How often should I get laser resurfacing treatments?
Depending on the laser resurfacing type you and Dr. Hashmi select for your treatment, you may need to wait several weeks or even a few months between appointments. Deep laser treatments will provide results that last a long time; however, they will need a lengthy recovery period. You should talk to Dr. Hashmi about how often you are willing to return for appointments at Nirvana Med Spa so she can take this into account when suggesting a treatment plan in your initial consultation.
What if I have darker skin?
Some lasers indeed pose a higher risk for discoloration or damage in darker skin. Certain patients need to consider other skin resurfacing options, such as radiofrequency (RF) microneedling. Nirvana Med Spa is proud to frequently work with people who have African American, Hispanic, or Asian skin tones. We can make suggestions about safe and effective options for you. We have extensive training and knowledge in all kinds of laser procedures.
get A Softer, Clearer Complexion
If you want a more youthful appearance, your treatment with Alma Harmony XL Pro laser skin resurfacing provides amazing results. If you are considering laser treatment or want additional information about other nonsurgical procedures at Nirvana Med Spa in Little Rock, AR, we invite you to contact our office to schedule your appointment with one of our caring team members.