A laser treatment of the skin: how does it work?

Do you suffer from fine lines, an uneven complexion or a scar caused by acne, for example? These are changes in the upper layers of the skin. A laser treatment works precisely in those layers. In this article you will read what a laser does in the skin, for which indications it can be used and how a treatment and the subsequent recovery proceed.

What a laser does in the skin

A laser emits light with a fixed wavelength. That light is absorbed by the water molecules in the skin and converted into heat. This creates very small, controlled areas of damage in the skin, with healthy tissue in between each time.

The body then repairs those small zones. In doing so, the skin produces new collagen and elastin, the proteins that give the skin firmness and elasticity. That repair does not happen in a day. It takes place over weeks and months, and that is why the effect of a laser treatment becomes visible gradually.

For which complaints

A laser treatment of the skin is mainly considered for:

• fine lines and wrinkles, for example around the mouth or the eyes
• an uneven skin texture or complexion
• scars, caused by acne for example

Deep folds or sagging skin are another matter. There a laser does not work deeply enough, and then your doctor can discuss other options or a combination of treatments with you.

Your doctor also looks at your skin type. Dark skin or recently sun tanned skin increases the risk of pigment spots after a laser treatment. Certain medication, an active skin infection or a cold sore can also be a reason to postpone the treatment. If you are prone to cold sores, it is best to mention that beforehand.

How a treatment proceeds

A laser treatment always starts with an analysis of the skin. Together with the doctor you discuss which zones will be treated and what you can expect.

What you feel during the treatment differs from person to person. That is why a numbing ointment is applied beforehand, and where necessary a local anaesthetic. Your eyes are protected against the laser light.

What recovery requires

Immediately after the treatment the skin is red and somewhat warm, comparable to sunburn. In the days afterwards the skin may swell slightly and then flake. How long that phase lasts differs per skin type and per treated zone.

During that period the skin is sensitive. A few agreements help:

• cleanse the skin gently and use the skincare you are given
• do not scratch or peel the flakes
• avoid the sun and sunbeds, and use a sunscreen with a high protection factor daily
• wait with make-up until your doctor allows it

Because collagen needs time to build up, the effect only becomes visible after a few months. How great that effect is differs from skin to skin and cannot be guaranteed in advance.

Why several sessions

A single session treats a part of the skin each time. That is why a laser treatment is usually repeated three times, with four to six weeks in between. This gives the skin time to recover between two sessions. After that, one session per year can be discussed. Whether that is useful depends on your skin.

Even after a series of treatments the skin continues to age. A laser does not stop that clock. Sun protection and good skincare therefore remain important.

Risks to be aware of

Redness, swelling and flaking are part of the normal course. Less frequently pigment changes occur, where the skin temporarily becomes darker or lighter, especially after sun exposure. Rarely an infection, a flare-up of a cold sore or a scar develops. A thorough consultation beforehand and carefully following the aftercare agreements are therefore part of it.

Laser and other treatments

A laser works on the skin itself. Botulinum toxin works on the muscles that cause certain wrinkles, and a PRP treatment uses the growth factors from your own blood. Sometimes those treatments are combined. Which approach suits your skin is something you discuss with the doctor.

The right moment

Because treated skin is sensitive to the sun, a laser treatment is often planned in autumn or winter. The sun is then less strong and it is easier to protect the skin well in the weeks afterwards. If you are planning a sun holiday, it is best to discuss that with the doctor beforehand.

Your diary also counts. In the first days after a session the skin is red and flakes. If you have an important appointment or a party during that period, it is better to plan the treatment somewhat earlier or later.

Questions you can ask

Which zones are suitable in my case? How many sessions are probably needed? How long will I be red? May I continue to use my usual creams? What do I do if my skin still reacts strongly after a week? A good answer to those questions helps you to start with realistic expectations.

Making an appointment

Whether this treatment suits your situation can only be assessed by a doctor after an examination. Would you like to know more about your situation? Make an appointment for a consultation.

Call us: 050 97 79 30

Gruuthuselaan 7, 8020 Oostkamp

This information is general in nature and does not replace a personal consultation.