What is a cosmetic laser treatment?
Cosmetic surgery is in the media regularly with celebrities constantly answering questions about their appearance and whether they have gone under the knife to ‘improve’ their body. The drip effect is worldwide, cosmetic surgery has increased. However, what is often forgotten is cosmetic laser treatment. Since laser treatments began in 1958, the use of lasers for cosmetic reasons has slowly increased in popularity, but it avoids the spotlight that dominates surgery.
Laser treatments for cosmetic reasons were not a planned progression. Originally, they were used to treat acne scars to smooth the skin around the scar. It was then noted that the wrinkles around the scars were less prominent once the lasers had passed through the skin in the process.
Lasers are highly concentrated beams of light that can be targeted at certain different parts of the body and skin depending on the wavelength of the light. When the light hits the tissue, heat is generated which then destroys or deactivates the cells. As research continues, more and more information is being discovered about how lasers can be used cosmetically.
Cosmetic laser treatments are most commonly used on the face. Lasers affect the collagen in the skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin naturally breaks down. Laser treatment generates new youthful collagen that eliminates the wrinkles that we so often despise.
There are additional types of laser treatments available today.
– Laser skin rejuvenation
– Laser removal of birthmarks/skin lesions
– Laser hair transplant
Although it appears to be a science using light beams, the risks associated with the treatment (as with any cosmetic change) must be performed by highly qualified physicians. Although the side effects are generally less harmful than surgery, the number of treatments may need to be increased for the desired result to take effect.
Laser treatments are not yet suitable for everyone. The changes that a treatment has in one patient can be completely different from those of another person who has had the exact same cosmetic laser treatment. Skin color and hair color are the two most common factors examined when evaluating whether a person is a suitable candidate for laser treatment. People with darker skin and/or red, gray and blonde hair may not see the results they want. Ideal candidates are those with fairer skin and darker hair.
After treatment, follow-up procedures will usually be recommended by doctors and should be followed closely to ensure that the treatment leads to the best possible results.
Costs are always a concern with any cosmetic treatment. Laser treatments are less expensive than surgical equivalents, but consider any follow-up treatments needed and whether you will achieve a long-term solution with your treatment.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is necessary to make an informed decision based on the advice of qualified professionals. The information you read here can help you know what to expect, but each individual case is different and you may be missing information on the Internet that you should know.