Laser technology has been a part of the beauty industry for more than 100 years. Cosmetic laser treatments were transformed, however, in 2004, when the first fractional laser devices were introduced to resurface skin without the cons that came with earlier devices, such as:
- Lengthy recovery times
- Painful procedures
- Hypopigmentation
- Required downtime
- High rates of scarring
Today, there are a multitude of cosmetic laser treatments available to safely treat wrinkles, skin tone, unwanted hair and other concerns that are minimally painful and require little to no downtime.
Here, we’ll identify the different types of laser treatments and devices, answer some common questions and help you find the best-licensed provider in the Gilbert area.
Types of Cosmetic Laser Treatments
Laser treatments are constantly evolving in relation to their effectiveness and applications. At Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa, we use a variety of laser types to treat a wide range of skin concerns, ranging from skin texture to aging and even unwanted hair.
Available laser treatment options include the following:
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal uses concentrated pulses of light to destroy hair follicles directly at their roots, which helps lessen their chance of growing back.
Benefits of laser hair removal include:
- Quick, easy, hair removal with minimal pain
- Prevention of ingrown hairs
- Lack of razor burn
- No burns from the use of hot wax
- Minimal to no hair after long-term use on treated areas
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is a quick and minimal discomfort skin rejuvenation procedure commonly used to treat the unwanted effects of aging. This laser treatment offers several benefits:
- Reduces the appearance of scars and wrinkles
- Smooths skin tone and texture
- Tightens skin
- Treats age spots and rough texture
- Treats acne pitting and pocking
- Reduces the appearance of surgical scars
Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal uses a high-intensity light beam to break apart ink particles, which can significantly reduce the appearance of tattoos. Benefits of this laser treatment include:
- A lack of scarring
- Effective fading and/or removal of tattoos
- The ability to clear one tattoo or an entire region of your body
Laser Acne Scarring Treatment
Laser acne scarring treatment helps rid your skin of persistent acne scars by stimulating collagen under the surface of the skin. Laser acne treatment is:
- Quick and effective
- Gentler than traditional (ablative) laser methods
- Safe for all skin types, depending on the laser used
- Able to remove even deep scars
Laser Scar Treatment
Laser scar treatment reduces the appearance of scarring by breaking apart scar tissue and stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
Like the other laser treatments on this list, laser scar treatment is quick, easy, safe and effective for making scars less noticeable.
Who Can Benefit from Laser Treatments?
One of the main benefits of cosmetic laser dermatology is that it’s safe and effective for most skin types and conditions.
Despite common misconceptions, having darker skin does not rule you out as a candidate for laser treatments. People with darker skin tones may be more sensitive to certain lasers but can still safely receive treatment, depending on the laser and the technician doing the treatment.
However, it’s important to consult with an extensively trained and experienced, laser technician like the ones at Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa to ensure a safe, personalized treatment plan for your skin type.
Commonly Used Laser Devices
There are a variety of laser devices used in beauty today, each with its own unique set of abilities. Below are some of the devices we use in our treatments.
- Icon
Icon is a laser treatment platform from Cynosure that provides a comprehensive set of laser treatments for a variety of concerns, including unwanted hair, pigmentation, vessels, wrinkles, texture, pores and melasma. - Opus
The Opus device offers cutting-edge fractional plasma technology that lessens recovery time and increases safety. This new treatment device addresses skin concerns ranging from superficial to complex and textural issues. - Harmony
This device is FDA-approved to treat nearly 70 conditions and is clinically proven to address common cosmetic concerns with laser skin resurfacing, hair removal and more. - Soprano
The Soprano is an 810 diode laser treats unwanted hair on a variety of skin types. - ClearLift
ClearLift is an effective skin rejuvenation laser treatment device that’s known for being pain free.. It’s commonly referred to as a “lunchtime facial” due to its little downtime which makes it possible to return to work immediately afterwards.
FAQs on Laser Treatments
At Colair Beauty Lounge and Med Spa, we want to answer all of your questions prior to your procedure so you can feel confident during your treatments. Here are a few frequently asked questions along with our recommendations.
How is laser different from LED treatments?
LED and laser are both light-based treatments. LED treatments output a broader band of wavelengths, while lasers generate the light of a single wavelength to reach deep tissue for better results.
Is it safe to buy at-home laser treatments?
We do not recommend trying at-home laser treatments. Laser treatment should be administered in a clinic with a knowledgeable, licensed provider to ensure your safety and results.
Is laser treatment safe?
When treatment is provided by a credentialed, extensively trained and experienced laser expert, laser treatment is safe for all skin types. If you have any concerns about the safety or efficacy of laser treatment, please schedule a consultation with one of our licensed providers.
Does it hurt?
Some laser treatments are virtually painless, while other laser treatments feel like a rubber band snapping. Depending on your skin’s sensitivity level, some people may experience some slight irritation during the treatment or notice some mild redness and irritation in the hours following the procedure, but it shouldn’t feel painful.
How do you prepare for your procedure?
- Use high-quality sunscreen or stay out of direct sunlight leading up to your treatment.
- Avoid the use of retinoids or other products that may cause increased skin sensitivity.
- Keep your skin well hydrated.
- Avoid smoking.
What aftercare steps should I follow?
It is important that you follow your provider’s aftercare instructions carefully. In general, you should:
Clean the treated area as directed by your provider
Apply any ointments or lotions as recommended by your provider
Use sunscreen while outdoors
Moisturize your skin as it continues to heal
Find a Licensed Provider
It is critical to find a well-credentialed and extensively trained and experienced laser professional. With the right provider, cosmetic laser treatments are safe and effective in treating a wide variety of skin and beauty concerns. Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa in Gilbert offers the latest laser technology and a team of professionals to help you achieve the best possible results.
Schedule a free consultation with a licensed Colair provider in Gilbert, AZ. Book your appointment now.
Lindalee
Lindalee has been a certified Laser Technician (CLHT, LSO) since 1999, offering Laser Hair Removal, Photofacials, Micropeels, and MORE. She has served as a board member on the Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency (ARRA), monitoring and enforcing safety regulations for Laser devices and technicians. She loves educating other Laser Technicians on effective treatments and safety protocols and has provided extensive training and consulting services to Doctor’s offices and Medical Spas.
