What to Expect With Laser Skin Rejuvenation: Before and After
Curious about the glow-up potential of laser treatments? Whether you’re dealing with fine lines, sun damage, or uneven skin tone and texture, laser skin rejuvenation before and after pics can be seriously inspiring. But what exactly goes into achieving those results, and how do you know if this anti-aging treatment is right for your skin? Join us as we answer your questions and cover what you can expect with laser skin rejuvenation, before and after treatment.
What is laser skin rejuvenation?
Laser skin rejuvenation is a gentle alternative to resurfacing, offering a non-invasive approach to enhanced cell turnover and collagen production without visiting a plastic surgery clinic.
How does it work?
Advanced laser devices like the Elite iQ™ emit concentrated light energy to trigger your body’s natural healing mechanisms. As this energy penetrates the skin, your body registers the event as an injury and responds by kickstarting the production of collagen and elastin, encouraging faster cell turnover, and sending fresh, oxygen-rich blood to your face.
What types are there?
Laser skin rejuvenation can be performed by two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. Intense ablative lasers include carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium lasers. Both of these can be delivered in fractional modes to target only a portion of the skin. These treatments deliver transformative results, but also require more extensive recovery.
Non-ablative devices, such as the Fraxel laser and the Elite iQ, gently heat underlying skin tissues without damaging the surface. They’re safe for a wider range of skin tones and require little to no downtime.
Is laser skin rejuvenation the same as laser skin resurfacing?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, laser skin rejuvenation is distinct from facial resurfacing. In most cases, “resurfacing” refers to a more invasive procedure that uses powerful ablative lasers to remove the outermost layers of skin.
Rejuvenation uses non-ablative lasers and other light-based devices to gradually improve the skin. In other words, all skin resurfacing treatments are types of rejuvenation, but not all rejuvenation is resurfacing.
Related: Your Guide to the Benefits of a Dermaplaning Facial
What to expect before laser skin rejuvenation
In order to achieve the best results after laser skin rejuvenation, you’ll want to know what to expect before treatment. Here’s a guide to walk you through the process:
What to expect during a consultation
Before your first laser skin rejuvenation session, you’ll meet with your esthetician or healthcare provider to discuss your medical history, cosmetic concerns, and treatment goals. They’ll evaluate your skin for acne scars, dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and other blemishes you may want to target, and develop a treatment plan to revitalize your complexion. In some cases, they may perform a patch test to see how your skin responds to their specific laser device.
How to prepare for laser skin rejuvenation
While non-ablative lasers are gentle on the skin, you’ll still need to treat your face with care before and after each laser skin rejuvenation treatment. Before your session, avoid sun exposure and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, even when you’ll only encounter ambient UV rays.
Stop using harsh skincare products like retinoids, acids, and exfoliants at least a week before treatment. Additionally, avoid waxing and chemical peels that may increase skin sensitivity.
What to expect during your treatment
When you arrive for your appointment, your esthetician will gently cleanse your skin and may apply a topical numbing cream to ensure optimal comfort. They’ll also give you protective goggles to shield your eyes from intense light waves.
Then, they’ll use the handheld laser device to treat the skin on your face and neck. You’ll feel a snapping sensation similar to a rubber band popping against your skin. Most sessions last 30 to 45 minutes.
Related: Hydrafacial Guide: Uses, Benefits, and What To Expect
What to expect after laser skin rejuvenation
You thoughtfully prepped your skin before treatment and endured the minor discomfort of your first laser skin rejuvenation session, but now it’s time to enjoy the “after.” Here’s what you can expect following your treatment:
Laser skin rejuvenation aftercare
In the days after laser skin rejuvenation, it’s best to stick to gentle, nourishing skincare products. Opt for mild cleansers, fragrance-free moisturizers, and soothing serums like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Sun protection is essential during the recovery period.
Avoid direct sun exposure and wear plenty of sunscreen during the day. For the first 24 to 48 hours, you’ll want to keep your skin as cool and clean as possible. Skip the gym, shower using cool or lukewarm water, and refrain from wearing makeup.
What are the side effects?
Despite the gentle nature of non-ablative laser skin rejuvenation, you can expect mild side effects like redness, swelling, and increased sensitivity lasting only a few days after treatment. An ice pack or cool compress can minimize this inflammation. As your skin recovers, you may experience dryness or flaking.
What results can you expect from laser skin rejuvenation?
Once the initial redness and swelling subside, your face should look smoother and brighter with a more even complexion. The tightening, toning effects can make your pores appear smaller and fine lines less noticeable. However, the real results take a little longer to reveal themselves.
Within four to six weeks, the effects of additional collagen and elastin will become more pronounced, resulting in skin that appears plump, vibrant, and youthful. Most clients require an initial treatment series of three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart.
Related: Laser Hair Removal in Orlando: What To Expect
Explore your treatment options at Silken Aesthetics!
At Silken Aesthetics, we know just how compelling the before and after photos of laser skin rejuvenation treatments can be, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals! Book a consultation today to get started!