Laser resurfacing of facial skin from scars and scars. Photos before and after, price, reviews. Home skin care after the procedure

Laser resurfacing of the face allows you to quickly rejuvenate the skin, even out its tone and eliminate the effects of acne, stretch marks, tattoos and burns in the form of scars and scars.

This procedure has few contraindications and is suitable even for sensitive skin, so it is increasingly used in cosmetology clinics for the treatment of both lungs and serious epidermal defects.

What is laser resurfacing

The procedure for processing the epidermis with a laser is done using a special apparatus. The bottom line is to heat a laser beam of fluid in the epidermis to a boiling point.

This leads to the fact that the cells are destroyed, and the water contained in them evaporates. As a result, the body starts the process of self-healing, due to which new cells appear, rejuvenation and smoothing of the skin surface occurs.

Depending on the depth of the beam and the apparatus used, laser resurfacing is divided into several types:

• peeling;
• deep cleaning;
• fractional cleaning.

What defects does laser resurfacing eliminate

Grinding is used to eliminate defects such as:

• skin pigmentation
• permanent tattoo
• keloid scars
• post-burn scars
• postoperative sutures and scars,
• acne scars and acne scars
• fine wrinkles
• enlarged pores
• unaesthetic moles.

The procedure is performed on the skin of the face, neck, decollete and the area around the eyes. In people who have completed a full course of laser resurfacing, the following results are observed:

1. The depth of facial wrinkles decreases.
2. The skin is smoothed and tightened.
3. The earthy hue of the skin disappears, it becomes lighter.
4. Small acne passes.
5. Age-related pigmentation is eliminated.
6. The pores are narrowed.

Laser resurfacing of face from scars and scars

Laser resurfacing can cope with fresh and shallow scars and scars. But today there are no methods for the complete removal of chronic keloids. Although some procedures will help to significantly change the texture and even out the color of such scars so that they are not so noticeable on the skin.

And this happens due to the fact that when the wound heals, fibrous tissue forms instead of the usual elastic skin. It forms a scar. And the more it formed, the more the scar will bulge. And with an insufficient amount of such tissue, the scar has the shape of a cavity.

To eliminate such a defect, the doctor must choose the right method of laser resurfacing, taking into account the peculiarities of scar formation. After the first procedure, it will already be possible to observe a positive result. And to achieve the maximum effect, it is necessary to undergo a full course of treatment, which includes from 6 to 10 sessions.

Laser resurfacing for face and pigmentation

The appearance of age spots depends on the synthesis of melanin in the cells of the epidermis. The following factors lead to its excessive education:

• diseases of the liver and gall bladder,
• age-related skin changes,
• metabolic disturbance,
• hormonal failure during pregnancy, menopause or taking contraceptives.

Freckles and age spots can be removed easily and quickly with an erbium laser. Its action is accompanied by the destruction of the upper layer of the epithelium, which leads to peeling of the skin, which contains an accumulation of melanin.

Laser resurfacing after acne, acne

With improper treatment of acne and acne, numerous small scars remain that spoil the appearance. Their elimination with cosmetic creams and gels is impossible. Previously, one of the common methods was surgery. But now an alternative to plastic surgery can be considered the use of a laser.

To completely remove the effects of acne, cosmetology clinics use both the fractional grinding method and the classic erbium laser. The choice of method depends on the appearance and depth of the scars.

Sanding after a burn

Regardless of the method of getting a burn (chemically or thermally), a scar always forms at the site of injury. Its color and shape may vary, but it always gives the skin a non-aesthetic appearance. There are several ways to get rid of the effects of a burn.

One of the most effective is the laser removal method. The advantages of this method are as follows:

• lack of side effects;
• complete disposal of the scar;
• contactless treatment;
• elimination of scars of any size.

Laser resurfacing around the eyes from wrinkles, crow’s feet

The laser resurfacing procedure gives a lifting effect, which can be observed even 3-6 months after the session. Therefore, this method is actively used to remove facial wrinkles and crow’s feet and reduce deep wrinkles.

In addition, after laser rejuvenation, the skin of the face acquires a lighter shade and smooth texture, which makes the face even younger . And the absence of painful sensations and the minimum number of negative side effects makes this procedure preferable in contrast to plastic surgery.

Laser resurfacing of skin for stretch marks

With a sharp weight loss or due to hormonal failure, stretch marks may appear, the fight against which with cosmetic preparations does not bring a positive result. But deep-action fractional laser resurfacing instantly solves this problem.

If stretch marks are formed recently, it will be easy to remove them. But to remove old defects, you will need to go through several procedures.

Laser resurfacing for tattoos

Previously, removing this de
fect was a lengthy process, since a tattoo is the same scar, only with paint. But with the advent of laser technology, this procedure has become fast, efficient and safe.

The type of laser resurfacing of a face depends on the type and color of the tattoo. Commonly used lasers for this procedure:

• ruby,
• alexandrite,
• neodymium (divided into infrared, red, green and yellow laser).

Types of lasers used for grinding

There are several types of lasers used to rejuvenate the skin. 
Of these, 3 of the most used lasers can be distinguished:

• carbon dioxide
• erbium,
• low intensity.

Their choice depends on the type, depth and area of deformation of the skin.

Carbon dioxide laser (CO2 laser)

CO2 laser has an aggressive effect on skin tissue. Its deep penetration provides good results in the treatment of scars, scars, acne and stretch marks.

It is mainly used fractionally, and for the best result, the exposure depth of the laser apparatus is regulated.

Erbium laser

Erbium laser has a gentle effect and a small depth of penetration, so it is more suitable for getting rid of skin problems such as pigmentation, freckles and small wrinkles around the eyes. This procedure does not cause severe damage to the skin, and the postoperative recovery period is less.

Low intensity laser

With low-intensity laser treatment, there is no evaporation of fluid in the cells, so this type of polishing has absolutely no side effects, and there is no restoration process of the cells.

The disadvantage of this treatment is that it can be used to eliminate only minor defects of the skin. A positive effect does not occur immediately, but after a while. This method is practically not used today.

Contraindications to performing laser resurfacing of the face

Despite the minimum percentage of complications after the procedure, there are still a number of contraindications to its implementation. One of the contraindications is acne and acne of an inflammatory nature.

Experts do not recommend doing this procedure for people with dark skin due to the existing risk of pigmentation. Also, laser resurfacing of the skin of the face and neck cannot be used for people with the following diseases:

1. Epilepsy.
2. The presence of neoplasms.
3. Diabetes.
4. Chronic diseases during exacerbation.
5. In the presence of a pacemaker.
6. Colds and infectious diseases.

Is it possible to do laser resurfacing for lactating women, pregnant women, during menstruation

Both pregnant and lactating mothers should refrain from laser resurfacing. Also, do not do it during the period of menstruation, since at this time the pain threshold is reduced.

Preparation for the procedure

Before laser resurfacing of the skin of the face or decollete, the specialist conducts a full examination of the patient to determine the degree of defect. This will determine which treatment method will be prescribed for best effectiveness.

So that the procedure does not have negative consequences, it is necessary to take a blood test before using it to identify hidden diseases. Your doctor may also prescribe antiviral drugs.

How is laser resurfacing of the skin of the face done – the technology of the procedure (process)

The procedure for laser removal of scars, scars and other skin defects is carried out without anesthetics. However, anesthesia can be applied at the request of the patient or with a large area of the skin that needs to be sanded. In this case, a special anesthetic cream is applied 30 minutes before the start of the procedure.

If during the session there are painful sensations – they are temporary. After the procedure, they disappear.

A nozzle is selected on the laser device in accordance with the size of the affected area of the skin.

Duration of one procedure

One procedure on average takes from about 20 minutes to 2 hours. It all depends on the extent of the lesion and the number of affected areas. If we add time to anesthesia, and this is about 30-40 minutes, the total session time is 1-3 hours.

After the procedure, you can go home, however, do not forget about the recovery period, which lasts differently for each, depending on the individual ability of the body to regenerate.

How many procedures do you need, at what interval

The number of procedures is determined by the specialist according to the results of the initial examination and after the completion of the first session. The number of sessions is affected by the appearance of the affected area of the skin, the severity of the defect and the individual ability to restore the skin.

As a rule, superficial scars and scars are removed within 1-3 procedures. To remove deeper damage, you will need to go through up to 10 sessions.

The second procedure is carried out after complete regeneration of the skin. Sometimes the interval between sessions can take from 2 weeks to 1-2 months.

Skin treatment after the procedure

An antiseptic cream is applied immediately after the procedure. Such a tool must be used throughout the healing time of the skin. This period lasts approximately 1 week.

Further skin care is discussed with the doctor. Moisturizers, sunscreens and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed.

Possible complications after laser resurfacing

The first 2-3 weeks after a laser resurfacing session on the skin on the treated skin, the following changes can be observed:

• the appearance of a crust,
• slight soreness
• swelling of the face
• blisters
• redness of the skin,
• increased skin sensitivity
• increase in pain threshold
• peeling skin.

These signs, subject to all the recommendations of a specialist, pass independently. But as a result of their non-observance or concealment of information about any disease, uneven skin pigmentation, scar formation and uneven contours can be observed.

How much does laser resurfacing cost – price, cost

The price depends on the prices in the cosmetology clinic and is formed under the influence of the following factors:

• depth and area of grinding;
• type of laser used;
• number of procedures;
• patient’s place of residence;
• location of the clinic itself.

In New York clinics, the price for laser resurfacing is from $ 272. In the, $ 136 are taken for the same procedure . And the full course of face polishing is $ 340 – $ 816.

Laser skin resurfacing with Fraxel

Fraxel is a well-known company that produces fractional laser devices. Fraxel devices are the most effective. The treatment procedure is quick and takes only 20-30 minutes.

The penetration of the laser beam is regulated, but can only affect shallow layers of the epithelium. The rehabilitation period after the procedure is practically absent, which makes it possible for patients to lead a normal lifestyle the next day.

According to numerous positive reviews of patients who have applied this type of laser resurfacing, Fraxel devices are among the best. Many patients and cosmetologists note that smoothing out fine wrinkles, removing stretch marks and shallow scars has become much more effective, and the number of necessary procedures is less.

The price for laser resurfacing services is approximately $ 340. up to $ 1088. depending on the type of procedure.

Face skin resurfacing with fractional CO2 laser

Fractional CO2 laser is actively used to rejuvenate the skin, eliminate deep wrinkles, get rid of significant age spots and general skin lightening with age-related changes in complexion.

Since this type of laser therapy is deep, the rehabilitation period takes longer. The optimal rehabilitation period is from 2 to 5 days, depending on the chosen method of laser resurfacing.

If the treatment was prescribed correctly, then the patient reviews about this method are positive. Basically, good reviews are found in people who have undergone a full course of facial rejuvenation, eliminate pigmentation and facial wrinkles.

The cost of such a procedure is small, amounting to only $ 136 – $ 816.

What is the difference between a Fraxel laser and a CO2 laser – which is better

Fraxel is a non-ablative laser system, and CO2 is carbon dioxide. In other words, the difference between the two devices is in the laser wavelength, which in turn gives a different penetration depth.

Fraxel fractional devices are suitable for young patients who are no more than 50 years old, since their skin does not yet require too deep penetration to remove wrinkles.

Fractional CO2 systems are designed for people with pronounced deep wrinkles, severe skin defects, large scars and scars.

Home skin care after laser resurfacing

At the end of the procedure, you can go home, but for a long time, thorough skin care is necessary. All methods of care are discussed with the doctor and include the use of compresses, ointments and other means that promote quick healing and protect the skin from infections and sunlight.

Cold packs

In the first few days, the face can be swollen and painful. An excellent solution will be the use of cold compresses, which will reduce pain and will help eliminate swelling and redness of the skin.

Moisturizers

Since the skin will actively peel off in the first few weeks, a specialist prescribes moisturizers to ensure that the skin heals evenly and that no pigment spots or scars form.

Sunscreen

Over the next 3-4 months, it is imperative to apply sunscreen daily on the face with a protection level of at least 50 to avoid unwanted skin pigmentation. Protective equipment must be used even in cloudy weather.

Anti-inflammatory drugs for edema

To avoid complications from infection, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory drugs that must be used throughout the healing period of the skin affected by the laser.

Do not apply anti-inflammatory cream on your own without the recommendation of a doctor. All funds must be agreed with a specialist.

What can not be done during the first week after laser resurfacing

During the first week after the procedure, experts do not recommend washing your face so as not to infect the infection. Also, do not apply cosmetics and do any other cosmetic procedures on the laser-affected areas of the skin until they are completely healed.

Compliance with all rules eliminates the complications that may arise from this procedure if bacteria or sunlight get on the skin.

When (after what time) you can do makeup

The regeneration time of the skin of each individual and is approximately 7-10 days. After this period, the skin will remain reddish for some time, but makeup is already allowed. And active classes are allowed to be carried out only after 3-4 weeks, after complete healing of the skin. You can go to work in 2 weeks,

Laser resurfacing of face skin: before and after photos

This modern cosmetic procedure for cleaning the dermis of the face is gaining popularity every year among all segments of the population of different age categories and affluence, as it is highly effective and does not harm the body.

But since this method also has a number of contraindications, the decision to undergo treatment should be made on the basis of the doctor’s recommendations.

Laser resurfacing videos

Laser resurfacing of the face before, during and after:

The author shares her experience on face polishing: