Cosmetic surgery is in the media regularly with celebrities constantly answering questions about their appearance and whether they’ve gone under the knife to ‘improve’ their body. The trickle-down effect is worldwide, cosmetic surgery has increased. However, what is often forgotten is cosmetic laser treatment. Since laser treatments began in 1958, the use of lasers for cosmetic reasons has slowly increased in popularity, but avoids the spotlight that dominates surgery.
Laser treatments for cosmetic reasons were not a planned progression. Originally, they were used to treat acne scars to smooth the skin around the scar. It was then noticed that the wrinkles around the scars were less prominent once the lasers had passed through the skin in the process.
Lasers are highly concentrated beams of light that can be targeted at certain different parts of the body and skin depending on the wavelength of the light. When light hits the tissue, heat is generated which then destroys or inactivates the cells. As research continues, more and more information is being discovered about how lasers can be used cosmetically.
Cosmetic laser treatments are most commonly used on the face. Lasers affect the collagen in the skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin breaks down naturally. Laser treatment generates new youthful collagen that eliminates the wrinkles that we so often despise.
There are additional types of laser treatments available today.
– Laser skin rejuvenation
– Laser removal of birthmarks/skin lesions
– Laser hair transplant
Although it may appear to be a science using light beams, the risks associated with the treatment (as with any cosmetic change) must be performed by highly qualified physicians. Although the side effects are generally less harmful than surgery, the number of treatments may need to be increased for the desired result to take effect.
Laser treatments are not yet right for everyone. The changes that a treatment has in one patient can be completely different from those in another person who has had the exact same cosmetic laser treatment. Skin color and hair color are the two most common factors examined when evaluating whether a person is a suitable candidate for laser treatment. People with darker skin and/or red, gray and blonde hair may not see the results they want. Ideal candidates are those with whiter skin and darker hair.
After treatment, doctors will usually recommend follow-up procedures and these should be followed closely to ensure that treatment leads to the best possible results.
Cost is always a concern with any cosmetic treatment. Laser treatments are less expensive than surgical equivalents, but keep in mind what follow-up treatments are needed and whether you’re going to achieve a long-term solution with your treatment.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is necessary to make an informed decision based on the advice of qualified professionals. The information you read here can help you know what to expect, but each individual case is different and you may be missing out on the internet that you should be aware of.
