A Simple Guide to Laser Therapy Treatment and What Laser is Best for you?
Laser therapy is complicated and ever changing. We get it. This is why this guide is created to help you effectively navigate your search.
Laser treatments have dominated the world of skincare, and locally in Sacramento, offering effective solutions for skin concerns like uneven skin textures, active acne, wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation. If you’re new to the world of lasers, let us break it down for you. There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative.
Ablative Lasers
Think: Deep Skin Resurfacing
Ablative lasers remove the outermost layer of skin (epidermis layer) to produce smoother, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin. AKA heavy-duty chemical peel with energy light.
Examples of Ablative Lasers:
- CO2 Lasers: Heavy-duty and intensive laser treatment with longer recovery time (3-10 days) targeting severe scars and deep wrinkles. Most return to normal activity after the first week with slight pinkness as collagen starts to remodel.
Examples: Core CO2 by Candela, Fraxel Re-pair, etc
- Erbium Lasers: Effective and gentler laser treatment with less downtime (3-5 days) targeting moderate fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Examples: Aerolase Era Elite, Scition, etc
What Ablative Lasers Are Best For: If you’re looking to treat severe skin concerns or want dramatic results, ablative lasers are a fantastic option.
How to prepare for ablative lasers? Avoid deep facial peels for at least 4 weeks before the procedure and discontinue the use of retinol or Retin-A products 2 weeks prior. Talk to your provider for additional precautions. Be sure to always consult before booking your first ablative treatment.
Non-Ablative Lasers: The Powerful yet Gentle Rejuvenators
Non-ablative lasers work below the surface (dermal layer), stimulating collagen production without removing any layers of skin. This means little to no downtime and a gradual improvement in skin texture and tone. Most non-ablative lasers are more cost-effective, though require a series of treatment.
Examples of Non-Ablative Lasers:
- Fraxel: Known for reducing fine lines, sunspots, and mild scars, Fraxel is a popular choice for those wanting subtle yet noticeable improvements.
- Nd:YAG Lasers (Aerolase Neo Elite): Versatile and effective, these lasers can address active acne, melasma, unwanted facial veins, acne scars, and pigmented lesions. Aerolase Neo Elite is safe for all skin types and colors.
What Non-Ablative Lasers Are Best For: If you’re looking to refresh your skin with minimal recovery time, non-ablative lasers are the way to go. These are perfect for people with busy lifestyles who want a more gradual transformation.
Aerolase: The winner of both Non-Ablative and Ablative Lasers
(In terms of cost, end result, and comfort level)
Among non-ablative lasers, Aerolase is a standout. It’s incredibly gentle yet powerful, making it suitable for almost all skin types, including sensitive skin. Aerolase can effectively treat conditions like acne, melasma, fine lines, and even unwanted pigmentation. The best part? It’s quick, painless, and requires no downtime, so you can get back to your day right away.
When combining the Neo Elite’s deep dermal treatment with the Era Elite’s precise epidermal resurfacing, you get the powerful Reverse treatment. The Reverse treatment offers an advanced, single-session solution to address a range of skin concerns with real, long-lasting results.
How to Choose the Right Laser Treatment
Choosing between ablative and non-ablative lasers depends on your skin goals and ability to manage downtime. Ablative lasers deliver dramatic results but require some recovery time, while non-ablative options offer a gentler approach with gradual, long-lasting improvements.
To help you make the best decision, we offer complimentary consultations with no obligations. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to confidently begin your journey toward healthier, more radiant skin.