Laser Acne Treatment
Acne is an infection of the sebaceous glands, the oil glands of the skin which are connected to hair follicles. The role of these glands are to release oil which lubricates and waterproofs our skin. When the follicles and pores where these glands are found become plugged with contaminants, oil, or dead skin cells, the oil which is secreted by the sebaceous gland backs up. This can cause inflammation and sometimes a bacterial infection. Most commonly Staphylococcus Aureus is the bacteria which causes acne infections. Acne becomes a serious problem when repeated infections produce cysts and nodules that result in acne scars. Unfortunately, acne scars can be disfiguring and many people choose to seek laser acne treatment.
If you are considering this kind of treatment, you will be happy to learn that laser acne treatment is the most innovative treatment available. Until recently, the only options to medically treat damaged skin were chemical peels and microdermabrasion, and 1st generation laser treatments that were ineffective. Advancements in medical science has changed all of that, and laser acne treatment has gained popularity of late.
There are some wonderful advantages to laser acne treatment. Laser therapy, unlike alternative approaches such as chemical peels don’t cause discomfort, bleeding and bruising. And unlike the alternative methods, laser treatment is quick, each session ranges from a few minutes to an hour or so depending on the severity of the scarring, The procedure may be performed in two or more sessions, but one procedure is usually enough. As well, the 3rd generation combination laser therapy is very effective, without the side effects of older laser types. Users are experiencing amazing results, with a great reduction of acne scares, including discoloration, and large pores.
So how does laser acne treatment work, what can you expect during and after your procedure, and how long will it take your skin to recover?
Laser acne treatment is similar to all skin treatments that use skin removal therapy; By the removal of a layer of skin so that the new skin can flourish, replace old scarring and fill in the crevices.
When you go for laser therapy, the doctor will employ the laser exactly were it is needed over the area of skin that is scarred and requires treatment. Depending on the depth of the scar, the laser may be moved over the area repeatedly. The laser penetrates and removes the number of outer skin layers necessary to remove the scar down to healthy skin. At the same time heat produced by the laser tightens the skin, which will help smooth out the scars. Once the new layer of skin is exposed, healing can begin to rebuild new skin that is scar free.
Your doctor may perform laser skin resurfacing in the office, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital. Depending on the severity of your scarring, your doctor will select the right laser for your particular scar removal procedure. Typically you would remain awake and receive local anesthesia, along with sedation; However, you might receive general anesthesia for treatment of deeper layers of the skin.
There is a chance that you will experience some mild swelling and discomfort after laser resurfacing. This is normal, and can be controlled with ice packs and medications prescribed by your doctor. Additionally. there may be a red, crusted appearance for 10 or more days. It is most important that you do not pick at or touch your skin at this time
After laser skin resurfacing, you won’t see the final results for about 18 months. During this time, the skin and its collagen rebuild and smooth out the scars. Often your doctor will recommend that the laser treatment be combined with one or more other treatments used for acne scare. This combination produces consistently better results.
If you feel you are a candidate for laser acne treatment, here are some important considerations for you.
- Ask about credentials, make sure the it is a Doctor performing the procedure, and that they are certified to perform laser therapy.
- Ask to see pictures of patients who have had previous procedures.
- Make sure you understand what type of laser treatment the doctor is going to be using.
- Be clear about potential results and potential side effects.
Laser treatment is seen as a last resort for acne scarring, but it is the most effective method. Treatment means a turn around in the appearance, and emotional well being of the person. It can be expensive, but it is well worth the resulting benefits.