Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments

Comparing Laser & Radiofrequency Skin Resurfacing Treatments (Part 1)

The various skin resurfacing procedures differ significantly. Each modality’s results and their long effects can be very different. So how does a patient know which radiofrequency or laser skin treatment is right for their specific needs?

In this article the skin resurfacing experts at AMAE Med Spa in the Troy, MI provide a reference guide for comparing types of skin resurfacing techniques to assist you in determining the ideal applications for your skin type, skin problems or issues and desired results.

Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments create microscopic wounds in the targeted tissue. The fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing systems transmit infrared light through a tube filled with carbon dioxide. The elimination of aging and damaged skin cells from the treated area’s outer layer occurs as a result of tissue vaporization caused by the light’s absorption by the skin.

The laser’s thermal damage also causes existing collagen to contract, firming the skin and increasing the synthesis of new collagen along with an increase in healthy cell renewal.

While highly effective, even though it’s non-surgical, this treatment method is more intrusive than many others for skin resurfacing treatments, So, it can lead to more dramatic skin resurfacing outcomes. However, because it is more intrusive, anesthetic is required and there will be approximately a week of downtime, as the skin will be red and heated to the touch.

Contraindications: Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing cannot be used if there are open infections in the region that has to be treated. Patients who have taken isotretinoin during the last six months should also postpone treatment. Darker skin tones should also avoid CO2 laser resurfacing.

Fractional Erbium Laser Resurfacing Treatments

Erbium, or YAG, lasers transmit heat energy well below the skin’s surface using infrared light. In the dermis (the middle layer of skin), fractional erbium laser resurfacing causes minute microthermal patches (injuries) that damage and destroy aging skin cells – while stimulating the growth of new collagen and healthy cell renewal.

In order to cure and mend damaged skin and enhance skin’s texture, tone, and elasticity, this treatment method essentially performs a kind of controlled tissue vaporization. Compared to microneedling, fractional erbium laser treatments are more suited for older individuals since they target deeper-lying tissue for an enhanced boost in collagen formation. However, this Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment also entails a sizable amount of recovery time, and the redness lasts for many days.

However, due to a significant risk of discoloration, erbium fractional laser treatments are also not recommended for darker skin tones. Since lasers heat the skin, there may be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, coupled with a lengthier recovery period and more need for aftercare.

Microneedling Skin Resurfacing Treatments

During microneedling, thousands of microscopic punctures are made in the skin by small needles and little pressure or pulses. These extremely fine ‘wounds’ then signal the skin to begin the healing process, boosting the creation of collagen and encouraging healthy skin cell turnover.

Depending on the depth of the needle used, microneedling frequently results in a rapid recovery period of a few days to a week. Minor scabbing may occur, which might not be the ideal course of therapy for people with busy schedules since skin may seem somewhat sunburned.

Typically, numerous sessions are necessary to acquire the optimum results with microneedling, which is better suited for less generalized, tailored outcomes.

The advantage of microneedling is that all skin types may normally get the treatment because it doesn’t include the use of heat. The three main exceptions are active acne breakouts, active inflammation, and any active skin infections.

When microneedling is combined with Radiofrequency energy – as in advanced Morpheus8 – microneedling can be a highly effective skin resurfacing treatment. And it is a great alternative to laser skin resurfacing for patients with darker skin tones. Read more about radiofrequency microneedling skin resurfacing in Part 2 below.

CLICK HERE FOR PART 2

Best Skin Resurfacing Treatments | Troy, MI Area

There are many available skin resurfacing treatments on the market. Each has direct benefits, and not every procedure is right for every patient. So, it is important to consult with trained and experienced skin care experts – like the specialists at AMAE in the Troy, MI area who can evaluate your skin and recommend the best treatment or combination of therapies. We offer several of the most advanced, state-of-the-art skin resurfacing treatments that are highly effective at treating lines, wrinkles, laxity, scars and other skin imperfections at our Troy, MI area Med Spa.

Each skin resurfacing treatment begins with a professional skin consultation. Treatments are selected and optimized to meet the specific needs of each client with the most innovative and comprehensive products and technologies.

Schedule a skin resurfacing consultation and treatment at AMAE – and then relax in our Troy, MI area Med Spa, while we make you look and feel more confident and attractive!

Skin Resurfacing Treatments | Troy, MI Area: 248.335.7200