Sunday, April 21, 2013

Lasers in Cosmetic Procedures

Lasers have plenty of uses nowadays. We use them for science, construction, manufacturing, eye surgeries, and even fun!
What can get confusing is the term "laser" is applied to all of these uses, even though they aren't necessarily the same thing. For example, it would not be wise to use a metal-vaporizing laser for a game of laser tag.
Lasers have also been engineered to serve cosmetic reasons, providing a non-invasive way to rewind the effects of aging and fix problem areas for the long-term.
There are two primary uses for lasers in cosmetic procedures: hair removal and skin treatment.
Laser Hair Removal
Having hair in unwanted places is not only a hassle, but it can make you self-conscious about the way you look. Laser hair removal offers an easy, long-lasting, and virtually painless way to remove unwanted hair, and keep it off.
How the process works is fairly straightforward. Tiny laser beams are set at different wavelengths and strengths so that they only target dark pigments on the skin (i.e. body hair).
The wavelength of the laser is what determines its usage. Certain wavelengths are high-powered, industrial-strength beams which are able to engrave into heavy metals, whereas others are harmless enough to quickly fix a cavity. It all depends on the wavelength.
In hair removal treatments, the laser safely removes body hair without damaging the surrounding lighter skin.
In general, the procedure is painless. Some slight discomfort-often compared to a rubber band against the skin-may occur, and soreness or tenderness may also accompany the healing process, but these symptoms are very minor and curable.
The best thing about laser hair removal is that the results are long-term. It may take several treatment sessions to completely rid yourself of unwanted hair, but once it is gone, in most cases, the effect will last. And any new hair growth is easily treatable.
Laser Skin Treatments
In contrast to hair removal, skin treatments involving lasers go beyond the upper layer of skin (epidermis) and targets below the second layer (dermis). Laser skin treatments even out skin tone and reduce signs of aging, such as highly-visible veins, wrinkles, and blotchiness.
A popular proven method of laser skin treatment is the Pulsed Light Rejuvenation System (PLSS). This method emits pulses of light into the skin cells, which is absorbed by the pigments responsible for sunspots and visible blood vessels. The PLSS process effectively causes the skin abnormalities to fade within a couple weeks of the treatment.
Another type of laser skin treatment works by penetrating the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin to build healthy new tissue underneath. In no time at all, the healthy tissue will reduce sagging skin and wrinkles by repairing the tightness and elasticity that your skin once had.
Are lasers right for you?
The best way to find out if laser hair removal or skin treatment is right for you is to consult a specialist. They will be able to answer any questions you may have about the procedure-such as the risks and recovery time-as well as assess what you are looking to fix and decide if using laser skin therapy is your best option.
Talk to a laser hair removal and skin treatment expert today to learn how lasers can be put to use to improve your appearance and self-confidence.
You want to look and feel your best. Accent Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics offers cosmetic services to meet the needs of men and women in Florida.