Laser resurfacing is an effective treatment option for a number of skin problems, including the effects of sun damage, according to the Mayo Clinic. Laser therapy can help even out your skin's tone and texture. The laser can be used on your entire face or zero in on a specific area.
Sun Damage
Overexposure to the sun can result in a number of skin problems, according to BBC Health. Sun-damaged skin can lead to uneven pigmentation (color), premature wrinkling and a general thinning of the skin. Too much sun may also cause skin cancer.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser treatment for sun damaged skin is typically performed under local anesthetic although a general anesthetic may be used in some cases. The laser travels across the face and eliminates or destroys the very outer layers of the skin (epidermis). Sometimes the deeper layers of the skin (dermis) may be eradicated. Laser resurfacing may feel similar to the feeling of a rubber band being lightly snapped against your skin.
Types
The Mayo Clinic says different types of lasers produce intense beams of focused, bright light that vary in intensity and pulse duration. For example, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) penetrates to deeper layers leaving the surface of the skin mostly intact. IPL may require a series of treatments to correct sun-related damage to the skin, including wrinkling and discoloration. Your doctor or dermatologist can determine the type of laser that will best repair your sun-damaged skin.
Side Effects
Laser therapy temporarily leaves skin raw, red and swollen. BBC Health says your face will mostly likely be wrapped in dressings and creams tp promote healing. You can expect your skin to maintain a pinkish tone for several weeks following your treatment according to Your Plastic Surgery Guide.com.
Scarring is rare, although the Mayo Clinic says some people may develop raised, bumpy red scars (keloids). Keloid scars are most likely to develop in people who have recently undergone vitamin A skin therapy or radiotherapy to area that was treated with the laser.
Risks
YourPlasticSurgeryGuide.com says there is a chance that the heat of the laser skin resurfacing will result in burning scarring and infection. Although rare, laser treatment can set off inactive viruses such as herpes. Laser therapy doesn't always turn out as expected. BBC Health says laser resurfacing can occasionally lead to long-term lightening or darkening of your skin.
