Laser Skin Treatment: Is It Safe?

Such non-invasive treatments are rising in-demand even more than surgical procedures these days and for an obvious reason: they offer a non-surgical alternative to solve perceived aesthetic flaws with less downtime, improved efficacy, and a higher level of safety—even for those that cannot be treated safely in the past.

Delivered by laser and light-based devices, these aesthetic treatments are being used to resurface, rejuvenate and treat scars as well as pigmentary disorders like melasma, age spots and freckles. They are applied in fat reduction, body contouring, and hair removal treatments too.

The term laser has been used so frequently that over the years, many have overlooked the fact that it is actually an acronym. In this article, we are discussing more about lasers, how it’s being used in aesthetic treatments, what they treat, as well as their safety.

What are Laser Treatments?

Laser, short for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, is a single-wavelength source of high-energy light which can be used to transmit a precise, monochromatic colour onto a very small targeted area.

This technology works in aesthetic applications through a process called selective photothermolysis, in which light is used to produce and target heat to a specific problem area. The wavelength of the light beam must be in the same colour as the targeted problem—whether that be dark spots, red broken capillaries or other undesirable skin condition.

Some of the laser-based skin aesthetic treatments that are in-demand today include the following:

Skin Tightening

Skin Resurfacing

Tattoo Removal

Hair Removal

Acne & Acne Scar Removal

Pigmented Lesions (sun spots, age spots, melasma, and other hyperpigmentation issues)

Other Light-Based Aesthetic Treatments

There are many other light-based technologies being used for aesthetic treatments today. But, while they’re often called laser procedures, the devices being used don’t actually rely on lasers but rather technologies such as IPL, LED, infrared, kinetic energy, and radiofrequency, to name a few.

Are Laser and Other Light-Based Treatments Safe?

Laser and other light-based treatments are generally safe when performed by a board-certified aesthetic doctor. However, when you’re undergoing any procedure, you should be aware that potential side effects and complications do arise.

For instance, lasers could cause burns or other injuries resulting from the heat. There are also less serious risks such as:

Hyperpigmentation

Itching

Swelling

Acne breakout

Viral, bacterial and/or fungal infection

The risk for these complications is low but, nevertheless, you should be aware that they do occur.

Who is not a Suitable Candidate for Laser Treatments?

Those who are prone to scarring

Those with acne, cold sores, and other skin doctors will have to consult their doctor first

If you decide that laser skin treatment is right for you, there are some things you’ll have to do to prepare, starting with consulting and discussing your medical history with your aesthetic doctor.

In conclusion, below are some other pre- and post-treatment tips to reduce the risks of laser skin treatments.

Protect Yourself Against the Sun. Sun protection is important before and after laser treatment. The procedure can leave your skin sensitive hence the need to protect it from the sun until it heals.

Make a Few Lifestyle Changes. Quit smoking and stop taking aspirin or vitamin E. All these factors can delay healing.

Moisturise, Moisture, Moisturise. Apply moisturiser several times a day to keep your skin from drying out. Lack of moisture can cause scabbing and potentially delay your healing process.

For more pre- and post-laser treatment care tips, consult your aesthetic doctor today. Schedule an appointment with us at Shiro Aesthetic Clinic in Singapore.