Ablative Laser Treatments

Are they for you?  What are the risks?  What to expect?

Photo of a woman's face after an ablative laser treatmentWe have been talking about laser treatments to improve appearance.  We started with a brief introduction and now we are talking about different types of lasers available.  In a separate article we have already discussed laser ablation procedures for getting rid of prominent veins in the hands.

Ablative lasers

The effects of skin resurfacing using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser are similar to those of chemical peels and dermabrasion, except that the laser removes skin layers by vaporization rather than with chemicals or a sanding device. In laser skin resurfacing a laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. The procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. However, it is also effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. 

Other types of lasers

Non-ablative lasers

Fraxel lasers

Hair removal by laser technology

Laser ablation to get rid of veins in the hands