The no-nonsense guide to skin laser resurfacing and rejuvenation treatments
When it comes to skin resurfacing treatments (another term for skin laser procedures), there are literally hundreds to choose from. The various names and terms are enough to drive anyone without a science or medical degree crazy. Patients looking for advanced laser resurfacing treatment options can explore our detailed solutions here. For patients dealing with deeper concerns like post-acne marks, advanced acne scar treatment options often include laser resurfacing to improve skin texture and clarity. Let me start with the most important thing first. This guide explains the different types of skin laser resurfacing and rejuvenation technologies available today. Patients looking for clinical laser resurfacing treatments performed in a medical setting can find detailed treatment information on our Laser Facelift (TRL) laser resurfacing page.
How to find the right provider?
You must find a qualified and experienced laser clinician, who specialises in laser resurfacing in particular. A great provider will navigate all the science for you and select the right treatment plan based on your specific wants, present issues, your skin type and your lifestyle. Choosing the right expert is especially important when undergoing personalised acne scar treatment in Cape Town, as results depend heavily on technique and experience. The Laser specialist needs to have many years of experience with laser resurfacing—don’t be afraid to ask how many treatments they have performed and how many years of experience they have.
At what age should you consider a laser skin treatment?
It really depends on the skin type, the issues you want to address, and your lifestyle. There is such a variety of laser types and treatments available on the market. For superficial wrinkles and sun damage, 20s and 30s can be a perfect age to start. For individuals struggling with acne scars, early intervention with the right acne scar treatment can help prevent deeper skin texture issues over time. But now on to the more technical aspects of this. There are literally hundreds of options out there. Generally, these fall into one of two categories: ablative and non-ablative. And that’s mostly what you need to understand before scheduling an appointment. So read on…
Who should NOT consider a skin laser rejuvenation treatment?
This is where an experienced and qualified laser specialist is extremely important. For some individuals, certain types of laser and light therapy are more suitable than others. For others, skin rejuvenation procedures are not recommended at all. To evaluate if you are a good candidate, reach out and book a consultation with an experienced Laser technician who can go through all the details of the procedures that will work best for your specific skin type and concern. Finding the right laser specialist at the beginning of your skin journey will save you a lot of time, hassle and money and will ensure you are well educated and that your skin goals are realistic.
Let’s Get Technical
What is an ablative skin laser?
Ablative skin laser treatments damage the upper layers of skin and typically require some down-time. The recovery time and the pain involved generally correlates with how deep into the epidermis or dermis the laser is working. These procedures are part of advanced Ablative laser resurfacing treatments used to significantly improve skin texture and tone.
The laser precisely burns off or vapourises the top skin layers.
With these treatments you can select the depth into the epidermis that you want to treat. Ablative skin laser treatments are great at quickly improving the appearance of deeper wrinkles, minimizing pores, skin texture, and sun damage. They are also commonly used in professional acne scar removal treatments to resurface pitted or uneven skin caused by moderate to severe acne. Sometimes a series of these is recommended, but often a single treatment can provide vast improvements. Because these laser treatments damage the top layers of your skin, they do require some downtime. The carbon dioxide (CO2) and Erbium (or YAG) lasers are examples of ablative lasers.
When should you get ablative laser rejuvenation treatment?
It all depends on the depth of treatment, however for deeper treatments, it is best to undergo these procedures in the Autumn and Winter months. During this time your skin is least likely to suffer additional damage from sun exposure during its most vulnerable state.
This process is highly effective for improving fine lines, skin tone, and is often included in a broader acne scar treatment plan depending on the patient’s skin condition.
Because this procedure does not damage the outer layers of your skin, the recovery time is minimal or zero. These treatments can be done in your lunch hour and you can return to work immediately. The effects are not as immediate and can take from several weeks up to several months to appear fully.
What the difference between skin lasers, BBL, and IPL technology?
Although many providers jumble laser skin treatments and BBL (BroadBand Light) / IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and other light therapy treatments into one category, they are quite different. BBL and IPL are technically not lasers at all.
Lasers work with one wavelength and target one specific concern, whereas BBL and IPL emit a broad spectrum light which targets multiple skin concerns.
This makes them useful for treating pigmentation, redness, and even mild acne-related concerns.
You can explore this in more detail in our BroadBand Light (BBL) treatment guide.
This process initiates a healing response by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Meanwhile, the damaged skin cells are gradually eliminated over time.
More on BBL vs. IPL
There is research showing regular BBL treatments can improve skin appearance over time. BroadBand Light (BBL)™ is one of the most advanced IPL devices available today.
Because BBL is a more precise technology, there is a lesser chance of negative side-effects and it can provide strong clinical results.
The most important decision you will make when choosing a skin resurfacing / skin rejuvenation method is the choice of your Laser specialist. A skilled, certified, and experienced provider will make all the difference.
If you are considering treatment for deeper skin concerns such as acne scars, exploring professional acne scar treatment in Cape Town can help you achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Learn more about our advanced laser facelift treatment and how it can transform your skin and improve overall skin quality.
Speak to one of our specialists for expert guidance on choosing the most suitable laser or rejuvenation treatment for your skin type and goals.
Written By Skin & Laser Specialist Cherie Cochrane
Cherie specialises in the aesthetic side of Atlantic Dermatology and Laser. With over a decade of experience in skin, laser and aesthetic treatments, a results-driven approach and over 6 years as a business owner, she has created two successful aesthetic businesses.
Cherie has recently moved to Cape Town and is a proven professional with a results-driven approach. Cherie has trained Doctors, Nurses, Therapists and Professionals to become leading experts within their chosen profession and won the prestigious international “Best Results” Laser competition by Sciton, competing against the top 200 clinics from around the world.
After having your first consultation with Cherie, you will leave here educated and with a proper plan to get the best results for your skin