DelMar Cosmetic Medical Center

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Procedures

Laser Peel

What is a Laser Peel?

Using a wand-like laser hand piece, undesired wrinkles are softened or removed. Also called laser resurfacing, it is an important advance in skin rejuvenation and can diminish the signs of aging, treat skin damage, and correct acne scars. There are three types of ablative lasers used for resurfacing:

  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
  • Erbium:YAG (Er:YAG)
  • Long-pulsed Erbium:YAG.
What are the advantages of having a Laser Peel?
  • Improve fine lines and wrinkles of the face, especially on the upper lip, cheeks, and forehead
  • Improves skin texture and elasticity
  • Smooth and tighten eyelid skin
  • Improves folds and creases by tightening loose skin
  • Improve crow's feet around the eyes
  • Soften pucker marks and frown lines
  • Remove brown spots and splotchy skin color
  • Improve and flatten scars
  • Repair smoker's lines
Who is a good candidate for a Laser Peel?
  • Anyone wishing to reduce or delay the signs of aging.
  • If you wish to postpone more aggressive surgical treatments.
  • If you wish to prolong the results of previous treatments.
  • If you have pigmentation and scars.
What does a Laser Peel treatment involve and how long does it take to recover?

Ablative lasers remove the top layers of the skin (epidermis) and heat the layer under the epidermis (the papillary dermis). This causes collagen (a substance that gives skin structure) regeneration. As the wound caused by the laser heals, smoother and more even skin is seen.

  • C02
    In contrast to the previous version of CO2 lasers, the newest generation of pulsed CO2 lasers delivers short bursts of extremely high-energy laser light. This revolutionary technology actually vaporizes the undesired skin tissue one layer at a time, revealing fresh skin underneath. Often referred to as a pulsed CO2 laser, the laser's highly focused beam enables the dermatologic surgeon to gently remove the skin's surface with a lower risk of scarring and other complications in properly selected patients. Healing generally occurs over a two-month period.
  • Erbium:YAG (Er:YAG)
    The high-powered Er:YAG laser produces energy in a wavelength that gently penetrates the skin, is absorbed by water (a major component of tissue cells), and scatters the heat effects of the laser light. This allows the precise removal of thin layers of skin tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding skin.
    • The Er:YAG laser is commonly used for skin resurfacing in patients who have superficial to moderate facial wrinkles, mild surface scars, or skin discoloration. The gentle touch of the Er:YAG laser means it is uniquely effective in rejuvenating sun-damaged skin in areas such as the delicate skin around the eyes and mouth, where other lasers may cause scarring. Other body areas, such as the neck and hands, also may be considered for treatment with the Er:YAG laser. Skin rejuvenation with the Er:YAG laser may offer the advantages of reduced redness, decreased side effects, and rapid healing - about 5-7 days.
  • Long-pulsed Erbium:
    A new generation of long-pulsed laser delivers results that fit in between those of the CO2 and the Er:YAG. The long-pulsed erbium:YAG laser provides more wrinkle relief and offers a reduced risk of scarring compared to both. However, with less heat to the skin, results may not be as striking.
How long does a Laser Peel treatment take?

Depending upon how many areas treated, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

How many Laser Peel treatments are required?

Only on treatment for a particular area is needed initially. Some people will require re-treatments over the years as the results are long-lasting, but not permanent.

How long does it take to recover from a Laser Peel?

Following a Laser Peel, the treated areas usually are kept moist with ointment and/or surgical bandages for the first few days. The skin is typically red or pink and may be covered with a fine crust. The treated sites must be protected from sunlight after the procedure. Once healing is completed, sunscreen should be worn every day. Depending on the type of laser used and the individual's ability to heal, a pink surface color may remain for several days to several months. Typically the areas heal in 10-21 days. After seven to fourteen days, makeup can be worn.

When can I expect to see results from my Laser Peel?

The final result of laser resurfacing can take up to six months to fully appear.

When can I go back to work/resume my normal activities after having a Laser Peel?

Depending upon the type of laser used, the individual's ability to heal and the areas treated, after seven to fourteen days, when makeup can be worn, you should feel comfortable returning to work. Your skin will still be pink, however makeup should cover it sufficiently.

How long will the results from having a Laser Peel last?

The results are long-lasting, but not permanent. Some people will require re-treatments over the years. Protection from the sun and implementing a good skin-care regime can help in maintaining the results.

What are my alternatives to having a Laser Peel?

Alternatives as well as additional procedures that would enhance the result are:

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