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Which Laser Treatment Is Right for Me?

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Looking for ways to address common skin concerns such as acne, sun spots, facial scars, wrinkled skin, or uneven pigmentation? 

Laser resurfacing treatments offer an effective way to correct a growing list of skin concerns by replacing or rejuvenating the older, damaged skin with a new layer of healthy collagen-rich skin, leaving you with a more even and improved texture.

Woman undergoing a laser treatment on her cheek.

There are different options for laser skin resurfacing designed to meet a range of skin types and needs. 

With the wide variety of laser technology available to you, you may wonder where to begin. 

This is why it’s important to work with a qualified plastic surgeon or skincare professional who can help you navigate the right treatment plan.

Should I Choose a CO2 Laser?

Candidates for a CO2 laser generally have scars, deep wrinkles, uneven texture, warts, and other deeper/stubborn skin flaws. 

CO2 lasers are generally ablative, meaning they superficially wound the skin to encourage the production of new skin cells. 

Patients should expect a longer downtime of up to one week and redness that persists up to two weeks.

Ablative Lasers

Ablative laser treatments work at both epidermal and dermal layers of the skin to treat a number of age-related blemishes and sun-damaged skin. These lasers damage the upper layer of the skin—the epidermis—and causes it to flake off after treatment.

Should I Choose the Fraxel® Erbium Laser?

Candidates for a Fraxel® Erbium Laser seek to promote collagen remodeling by refining fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, skin laxity, age spots, and sun damage. It’s great for reversing the negative effects of skin aging for complete rejuvenation.

The Fraxel® laser technique uses microscopic light beams to generate micro-injuries on the skin to encourage the exfoliation of dead, tired skin cells and trigger the skin’s healing process. It requires a much shorter recovery period than a CO2 laser.

Non-ablative Lasers

Non-ablative lasers heat the dermis (just like a fractional laser does); however, it does not damage or remove the top layers of the skin (epidermis). Therefore, you are not expected to peel after a non-ablative laser. 

These treatments are less invasive than ablative lasers but cannot always treat the skin to the same depths as an ablative laser. 

How to Determine the Right Treatment Plan for You?

The best way to determine which treatment will work best for your specific skin condition is to consult with a qualified cosmetic professional. 

During your consultation, Dr. Calabria and his team will assess your potential treatment areas and discuss your desired results before recommending a treatment plan that will guarantee the most satisfaction. 

Some of these treatments will require more than a single session, depending on the size of the area being treated and the severity of the condition.

Interested in Learning More?

Contact us today at 760-836-0077 or fill our online form to learn more about various laser skin rejuvenation treatments to help you make your skin goals a reality.