Dermatology procedures have advanced by leaps and bounds with the introduction of laser technologies. Through concentrated beams of light, surgeons can remove damaged or irregular skin in precise layers. With highly targeted wavelengths, these lasers can remove layers of the skin at the same time as they stimulate deeper layers, encouraging new skin to grow smoother and firmer than before. While the use of lasers is slightly different when used in stretch mark laser treatment, the basic principles still apply. When you look at different options for laser treatment and procedures, it can be helpful to first narrow down your search to the specific area of the body you wish to improve.

Face

Facial laser resurfacing saw an increase in use by about 9% between 2008 and 2009 in the United States. There is a use for laser resurfacing for acne scars, minor facial flaws such as sun damage and aging spots, and even freckles. It is important to know that there are two types of lasers that get used for laser resurfacing. One is an ablative laser, and one is a nonablative. An ablative laser removes skin layers, and nonablative lasers only stimulate underlying layers to grow collagen and tighten skin. Sometimes both lasers are used for resurfacing treatments, but it depends on the desired effect, skin tone, and the flaws that you are trying to treat.

If an ablative laser is used, your skin will have a healing process that could take up to two weeks if a CO2 laser was used, or up to a week if an Erbium laser was used. During that healing period, it is recommended that you adhere to all instructions from the surgeon pertaining to when and how to wash your face, and when and how to keep it moisturized. Elevating your head at night, and using ice to relieve swelling and discomfort may also speed recovery.

Body

When lasers are used on the rest of the body it is typically in the form of stretch mark laser treatment. Stretch marks are typically obtained due to puberty, pregnancy, or rapid weight loss or weight gain, and once you had them it was believed that you would have them for the rest of your life. However, stretch mark laser treatment can reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and help the skin to heal over a period of time. Each treatment might take about half an hour, during which people tend to experience only minimal discomfort. However, several sessions may be needed to achieve the desired effect. Potential side effects include the following.

• Temporary redness, itching, or swelling.
• Prolonged redness, hyper or hypo-pigmentation, scarring, blistering, or bruising.

Because everyone’s skin is different, and reacts differently to laser treatments, a licensed surgeon will be able to tell you what results you can expect to see, and which side effects you might be at risk for. More than 500,000 laser treatments are performed each year in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Whether you wish to rejuvenate the skin on your face, or on your body, laser treatments are quickly becoming one of the easiest cosmetic procedures to obtain. More information like this.