There’s something satisfying about the idea of zapping away one’s imperfections using a laser. But just what are some of the different ways in which you can use a laser to improve your looks? This post delves into a few of the different beauty treatments available that use lasers and what you can expect from them.
Hair removal
When it comes to hair removal options, laser hair removal can offer some of the longest lasting results. This treatment involves using a focused beam of light to not just remove your hair, but also destroy the follicle. Hair typically does not grow back for months, however you can remove hair for years or even remove hair permanently by undergoing a series of sessions. This makes it a lot more appealing to some people than waxing or shaving, which are only ever temporary.
The cost of laser hair removal and the time it takes to complete the procedure will vary depending on how much hair you want to remove. Getting rid of a single rogue hair could be very quick and very cheap. Full body laser hair removal procedures are possible, but can take hours and are more expensive. Many people describe laser hair removal as being a lot less painful than waxing, although there may still be some discomfort. At-home IPL devices may be a cheaper and less uncomfortable alternative, but may not have as efficient results.
Skin facial
A laser skin facial is a procedure that involves removing outer layers of skin from the face. This can be used to get rid of dead skin and fine line wrinkles. After undergoing this procedure, you should have noticeably more youthful-looking skin. This procedure can have long-lasting results.
Sessions typically last 15 to 30 minutes. Immediately after, your face may be sensitive and red, however this redness and pain should subside. Many clinics that offer laser skin resurfacing also offer more traditional exfoliation procedures such as this Elan Skin & Laser facial, which may be preferable if you want to undergo a more gentle and affordable procedure. That said, laser skin resurfacing is still less invasive and more affordable than options like surgery and many fillers.
Hyperpigmentation treatment
Lasers can be used to reduce various forms of hyperpigmentation. This includes freckles, sun spots and even some birthmarks. The procedure involves using a focused beam of light on the area that is pigmented to stimulate collagen production deep in the skin and heat up faulty blood vessels.
This form of treatment may require several sessions depending on the severity of the hyperpigmentation and area of skin affected. For example, reducing a birthmark may require more sessions than reducing mild freckles. Effects can be long-lasting, making this a much more preferable solution to covering up the area with makeup. It could also be more effective than other treatments like screams and microdermabrasion.
Acne treatment
Lasers can also be used to treat acne and remove acne scarring. The same laser resurfacing methods used to remove wrinkles and hyperpigmentation can help to remove pitting and redness caused by acne. This can result in smoother and less inflamed skin. Meanwhile existing pimples and pustules can also be removed and reduced.
The length of a session needed and the cost will depend on how large the area of skin is that you want to treat and how severe the acne/scarring is. In many cases, several sessions will be needed to make an impact. It’s worth noting that there are other professional acne treatments and acne scarring treatments you can explore such as microdermabrasion and chemical skin peels. A dermatologist may be able to recommend specialist treatments for severe acne such as prescription drugs, which may be needed alongside laser treatment.
Teeth whitening
You can also use lasers to whiten your teeth. During this procedure, a bleaching chemical is painted onto your teeth. A light or laser is then used to activate the bleaching chemical. The whitening effect can last anywhere from a few months to a few years.
Laser teeth whitening is usually performed by a dentist. Not all dental clinics offer this treatment, so you may have to look around. The whole procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and although it is painless, you may experience some sensitivity in the 24 hours after. The high cost of laser teeth whitening can put off some people. At-home whitening kits exist and can be a more affordable option (as well as whitening toothpastes and whitening strips). This Healthline article explains more about laser teeth whitening.
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