Treatment for acne scars of the laser type has become fairly popular in recent years. Then again, this doesn’t mean that one should go for it straight away. A person should learn more about the various kinds of procedures, how they work, what effects they bring about and how harmless they are. The following would help one make a knowledgeable decision.
There are 2 major kinds of laser procedures – ablative and non-ablative. The ablative treatment entails the removal of the skin layer so that a new layer, which is more elastic and smoother, could come to the exterior. The non-ablative treatment does not get rid of a skin layer, although some exfoliation happens as part of the process. Such a method is made to promote the natural production of collagen. When there is more collagen production, the acne scars are filled biologically.
There are 3 major kinds of ablative laser treatments utilized for the removal of acne scars. The CO2 laser treatment is the most potent of all. It permits for deep skin resurfacing. Erbium or YAG laser is less abrasive on the skin. That is the reason why it is considered safer.
On the other hand, only portions of the exterior skin are treated with fractional laser treatment for acne scars. These fractions could be tiny spots. Essentially, every scar is treated without the adjacent skin area being affected.
A laser treatment produces intense light impulses. These light impulses travel at a speed that’s large enough to present them the power to remove skin layers or to stimulate the deeper layers to stimulate more collagen production. In essence, a laser is a potent skin peeling tool. A benefit of the utilization of such tool is precision. The laser could be regulated to remove a skin layer with practically any thickness.
Such procedures are invasive. After the treatment, the skin would be swollen and red. Depending upon the depth of the removed skin layer, the redness could last from several weeks to months. It is important for patients to use special protective and soothing creams. Sun exposure ought to be avoided after the procedure.
It must be pointed out that because of the application of heavy creams, acne might develop after the procedure. Differences in skin pigmentation might occur as well. The treated skin might be darker or lighter than the natural surrounding skin. Skin infections following laser treatments aren’t common, though there’s a risk of them.
An ablative procedure with Erbium/YAG or CO2 laser treatment for acne scars could run around between $3000 and $6000 each session. A fractional laser procedure is typically around $1000 a session. One might require more than one session, depending upon the depth of his acne scars.
Such laser treatments bring about permanent effects. Dermatologists advise it for boxcar, ice pick and rolling acne scarring of various depths. It is highly suggested to consult one’s dermatologist before selecting either of the mentioned treatments. Make certain that one understands the possible side effects and permanent changes such procedures make.