With a multitude of beauty treatments that involve the use of lasers, it’s safe to say that the technology is likely to stay and won’t disappear any time soon. First used in the early sixties for eye surgeries, scientists discovered chromophores that would be in the path of laser beams would absorb it and cause reactions that result in skin tightening and hair removal, to name a few.
While initially used by dermatologists to remove tattoos, they've learned to manipulate these laser-activated chromophores to generate new light wavelengths. As a result, they now have more applications than ever before, which we'll look into below.
Tightens the Skin
One of the most common uses of laser technology in the beauty industry is tightening the skin to give it a more youthful appearance. Through a non ablative laser treatment, it’s possible to stimulate the process of neocollagenesis, wherein the body produces new collagen. As you may know, collagen is the protein that’s primarily responsible for the suppleness and elasticity of the skin.
The skin tightens with the production of new collagen. Moreover, because ablation or tissue evaporation isn’t involved in the process, the treatment’s downtime is significantly minimized. And it’s because of this that many prefer this form of treatment over its ablative counterpart.
Hair Removal
The use of laser treatment for hair removal was one of its first applications, and most dermatologists’ offices and salons now offer this service. While the technology has existed for quite some time, it’s improved to such a degree that the laser wavelengths are able to penetrate much deeper into the skin and eliminate undesired hair follicles.
However, keep in mind that the ideal device to use will depend on your hair color. For example, YAG lasers are generally better for light-colored hair since it targets the hair shaft’s pigment. On the other hand, Alexandrite lasers are ideal for dark-colored hair because they can discriminate colors much better.
Photofacial
Those with broken capillaries, age spots, freckles, and other lesions that can’t be covered with makeup alone can also use lasers. Through the process of photo facials, they can be treated in a safe and non-invasive manner. With it, laser technicians are able to fade unwanted red and brown pigmentation and reveal spotless and beautiful skin via intense pulsed light or IPL.
The treatment also works quickly. Furthermore, it has minimal downtime and is virtually pain-free, making it better than potions and lotions.
Laser Resurfacing
As mentioned, laser treatments can help promote collagen production, which can tighten the skin and promote a youthful look. However, with laser resurfacing, you can also address acne scars, fine lines, and facial veins.
Conclusion
It isn’t hard to see why lasers have become the preferred cosmetic treatment for many. After all, not only do they have the capacity to address many different skin issues, but they can do so much quicker and with greater precision compared to other methods. Moreover, they’re generally safer and cause minimal to no pain, depending on the type of treatment.
