Laser Skin Tightening

Seekers of youthful looks can now rejoice in this new innovation of a non-surgical procedure. Laser skin tightening uses infrared light to heat up and contract or tighten the collagen. At the same time there is an increase of new skin cells replacing damaged ones. This process results in visible changes immediately, skipping over a recovery period.

Examples of laser skin tightening treatments are the Titan, Polaris, Candela or GentleYAG systems. All of these systems use laser technology to heat up the bottom skin layers where collagen is found while cooling the external skin masking any signs of external injuries.

Similar to the laser hair removal, laser skin tightening applies laser light - an intense throbbing beam of light - to the areas of the skin to be treated. The light goes through all the dermal layers.

The waves of light heat up the skin's water content producing a uniformed heating effect in the areas to be treated, making the damaged, disorganized collagen fibers tighten as fibroblasts produce new collagen.

At the same time, there is a cooling system that prevents the surface of the skin from heating up. This process, called collagen remodeling, brings about a firmer, younger-looking smooth skin.

Who would benefit from laser skin tightening?

The skin becomes loosened and sagging because of several reasons, like aging, pregnancies, abrupt or drastic weight loss.

Those with obviously sagging skin and fearful about the facelift procedure of surgery can choose laser treatment with its minimal invasion. Lines and sagging are improved in less time.

For those with really excessive floppy or baggy skin, plastic surgery can be combined with laser treatment for best results. Laser treatment is best for those who want clear results on their skin minus the bother of cosmetic surgery.

Preparation

3 to 4 weeks before the treatment, you would be instructed to apply sun block and keep away from direct sunlight. You should also stop the tretinoin treatment, if you're taking one, at least one week before the procedure.

The doctor would also prescribe prophylactic antiviral medicines like Valtrex, for those predisposed to oral herpes, for a daily application before and for a week after the laser skin tightening treatment.

The treatment

Laser skin tightening procedures last from 30 to 60 minutes, or longer involving large areas like the face and neck or the abdomen.

A covering will be put on your eyes for protection and a cooling gel on your skin. You would be feeling some warmth but as a whole, the process is comfortable enough not to need any anesthesia.

Pulses of infra-red light will be directed to target areas of your face or body. The laser emits energy which the water in your skin absorbs, affecting the collagen to contract and therefore, tighten. The machine has a cooling system which will keep the skin surface cool. Immediately after the treatment you can go back to your normal lifestyle.

After treatment

The redness, warmth and tightness will diminish in a few hours. You will be able to observe some changes in tone and condition of your skin immediately after the treatment. The full renewal of your skin will take effect in 90 to 180 days, the time it takes to form new collagen.

Acutely sagging skin will need more than one treatment every 4 to 6 weeks. Your doctor will be able to determine the number of sessions your skin will need. The usual number is 3 to 6 sessions.

Your skin will stay renewed for 1 to 2 years, in some instances, even longer. You must stay away from the sun; its rays are harmful to your newly treated skin by breaking down the collagen faster. If you need to go out you must apply a high SPF sunscreen or sun block.

Complications and Precautions

You would see some swelling and redness but this is expected and will disappear in a few days. There are rare cases of bruising or blistering, about which your doctor must be informed. In some other patients, the treated areas would exhibit some pigmentation.

You must be candid with your doctor if you suffer from chronic herpes infections. S/he will assess your condition and advise you on the matter, which usually means the application of prophylactic measures.

Pregnant women and those with skin cancer are not qualified to go through laser skin tightening.

Tell your doctor about skin care and anti-acne medications and their adverse effects prior to the treatment.

Laser Skin tightening costs vary depending on the size, type of laser used, location of the target areas. On the average, $1,000 covers all but is still priced lower than invasive cosmetic surgery.

Kalona Karrington is a writer and researcher for Cosmetic Surgery Today.

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