23 Feb Wait—Not All Skin Resurfacing Treatments Use a Laser?
Contrary to popular belief, not all skin resurfacing treatments actually use a laser—and that’s not a bad thing! At RefinedMD, we’re committed to providing you with the best treatments via the latest technologies such as intense-pulsed light (IPL), Clear + Brilliant, CO2 laser, HALO, LaseMD, and more. Today, laser resurfacing is more of an umbrella term to refer to a variety of technologies that range from using lasers to radiofrequency. A more correct term is “energy-based treatments,” but it’s tough to change what has been a household term for so many years.
When someone says they’re interested in laser skin resurfacing, they might not have an idea of which device they mean (especially if they’ve never enjoyed an energy-based treatment before). Once you see how many devices are on the market, it’s easy to see how this can be so confusing! Which treatment is right for you? Are you okay with having some downtime, and if so how much? What are your specific skin concerns? What are your expectations? All of these questions will be addressed during a complimentary aesthetic consultation.
What Energy Devices Can Do
Energy-based devices are each designed to do different things. It’s not uncommon to combine different device treatments in a single appointment, or in back-to-back appointments. For instance, maybe you want to remove dark spots on the face but also tighten the skin. A great option for this goal is HALO, which combines ablative and non-ablative approaches for a one-two punch treatment.
Some people want more dramatic results and are fine with having a more intense recovery period. They want to turn back the clock and enjoy significantly tighter, brighter, and more youthful skin. A CO2 fractional laser might be a good choice here. It’s one of the more aggressive approaches, and some people even consider it a means of putting off a facelift!
Customizing Your Approach
When it comes to energy-based devices, your choices are seemingly limitless. However, depending on how much melanin you have, there are some factors to consider. Not all devices work well for those with darker skin tones. On the other hand, for those who are very fair, you might experience more redness and a slightly longer downtime. Understanding your goals and matching you with the best device(s) is the first step in creating a regimen just for you.
Some devices are designed for a singular or very occasional treatment. Others, such as IPL, BBL, or HALO, are often used every few months. For treatments that require little to no downtime, many clients like to keep regular appointments so they can maximize and sustain their results.
Combining Energy Devices with Other Treatments
It’s very rare that “just one” treatment is going to give you optimal results. You will certainly get fantastic results when you’re matched with the right energy-based device, but what if results could be even better? Combining these treatments with a HydraFacial, microneedling, and an at-home skin regimen (for example) is going to give you the most effective end results.
Of course, you also need to protect your skin—especially after an energy-based treatment. You will be given before and after care instructions prior to your treatment, and the three most important rules in the weeks after the treatment are: avoid the sun as much as possible, apply sunscreen liberally whenever you’re exposed to UV rays, and no picking at the skin. Fortunately, not all energy devices cause peeling, so if you think you just won’t be able to resist there’s still a treatment for you!
Energy-based devices can be used to treat any skin condition, and are not necessarily exclusive to the face. The neck, decollatage, and tops of the hands can also be treated with some of these devices. Bid farewell to fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, melasma, poor skin tone and texture, and more when you schedule your appointment today. Get in touch with RefinedMD and book your complimentary consultation online.