Knowledge

Laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure using a laser to rejuvenate the texture and appearance of the skin. It also addresses different kinds of skin concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, dark spots, etc.

Before undergoing any laser procedures, it is important to know which lasers are available to treat those skin problems.

Lasers used in laser resurfacing procedures are classified into two groups: Ablative and Non-ablative. What is the difference between these two categories?

It is vital to stress and illustrates the difference because of the effect that they may have on the skin.

Ablative lasers are a type of lasers that makes injuries to the skin and removes the outer layer of the skin. They induce collagen production by heating the second skin layer, the dermis.

When the dermis is heated up, it starts to generate collagen, and this improves the skin. Such lasers as CO2 or Erbium Fraxel (fractionated) laser are examples of Ablative lasers.

Unlike ablatives, non-ablative lasers improve the skin, fine lines, dark spots without any wounds. They do not remove the outer skin layer either.

In comparison with ablative, non-ablative lasers are less invasive, and do not require a long downtime after the procedure.

For example, IPL or Spectra Peel are good examples of non-ablative lasers. Both IPL and Spectra peel improves acne scarring, dark spots, and pigmentation.

Only the professionally specialized dermatologist or plastic surgeon can recommend which laser best suits your skin to do laser resurfacing depending on skin type and current skin condition.

Therefore, if you want to remove a fine line, wrinkles, acne scarring, pigmentation, or dark spots with laser resurfacing, make sure the laser does not harm your skin by making things worse.