Possible Side Effects of Laser Treatments on your Face
Facial laser treatments are a popular and innovative way to take care of your skin’s health and appearance. You might think that this magical treatment will make your flaws disappear for good.
Laser treatments are a great way to rejuvenate the skin, but you still need to take into consideration the potential side effects.
Laser technology should not be treated lightly and it’s important not to be misinformed. The truth is, that it can do wonders for your skin, but there are some potential side effects that shouldn’t be ignored.
At Arcadia Wellness Center, you will find a team of registered professionals that can lead you through everything there is to know about facial laser treatments. We have the expertise to minimize the potential side effects of the treatment.
Keep on reading to learn about the potential side effects of laser treatments and decide whether this is the right treatment for you.
Most Common Side Effects of Facial Laser Treatments
The potential side effects during or after the procedure depend a lot on the type of laser used for the treatment. The two types of lasers that come into play are ablative and non-ablative.
Ablative lasers burn the outer layers of the skin and by doing so, they stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers. The potential side effects of ablative lasers include:
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation – Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation are terms used to describe color changes of the skin in which the skin changes either to a darker or lighter complexion post-procedure. These changes usually last temporarily, although they can happen within the first weeks following the treatment. Hyperpigmentation occurs when too much melanin is produced by the skin, while hypopigmentation is caused by decreased production of melanin. Although unsettling, these changes usually settle with time when the skin heals and regenerates. In certain cases, however, discoloration can persist for a longer time, requiring intervention by a dermatologist for effective treatment or management. Seeing a laser specialist well trained can prevent this side effect.
- Acne Acne may also appear after a skin treatment, especially after applying thick creams or ointments to the treated area. In turn, these products may block the pores. Thus creating a perfect setting for breakouts. Post-treatment acne flare-ups arise from skin reactions to certain chemicals found in the post-procedure skincare range. Acne is more prone to oily skin. Follow aftercare instructions and apply only non-comedogenic products that are gentle to the skin to minimize risks. Acne usually clears as the skin adjusts and returns to normal.
- Milia (Tiny White Bumps) The tiny white bumps appearing after a procedure are called milia. Milia occur when dead skin cells become trapped in small pockets beneath the skin’s surface. Milia are typically located on the face, specifically close to the eyes or cheeks. They are usually not dangerous but can be a nuisance and often resolve themselves over time. Milia can persist for a few weeks but may often be treated simply by gentle exfoliation or professional treatment by a dermatologist. Some milia may need to be removed by a trained specialist.
- Itching, redness, and swelling Itching, redness, and swelling are commonly seen as side effects after skin treatments, though especially sensitive areas are more likely to react. It’s often just part of the normal healing of the skin after a procedure. The inflammation can be temporary, lasting several hours to a few weeks, depending on the nature of the procedure and the type of skin of each individual. Don’t scratch or irritate the area while it heals, or you will run the risk of even further damage and infection. Using soothing creams or a cold compress can help to relieve discomfort. Ensure you see a doctor if you keep feeling the same sensations or if those feelings keep getting worse.
- Infections (Bacterial, Viral, or Fungal) The risk of infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal, after skin treatments, especially with a less than thorough aftercare, is another possible risk. A herpes simplex flare-up can also lead to cold sores if the virus is quiescent within the skin. These types of flares occur when the barrier of the skin has been compromised from a procedure. Other infections can result from exposure to possibly contaminated environments or misapplication of hygiene during the healing process. If followed, aftercare instructions will go a long way in minimizing infection risks; in particular, the skin must be kept clean and protected, and there should be no touching of the area treated with dirty hands.
- Permanent scarring Though rare, permanent scarring can develop after a skin treatment, principally with complications or if the skin refuses to heal. Scarring is more likely to affect individuals with certain skin types who get infections or excessive inflammation or who don’t practice proper aftercare. In rare cases, aggressive treatments or poor techniques can also result in scarring. Compliance with aftercare instructions is important to minimize this risk. Avoid exposing the treated area to the sun and consult with a healthcare provider if any complications appear. Timely and appropriate intervention can decrease the risk of developing permanent scarring. Seeing a laser specialist who is knowledgeable like we are can prevent this issue.
Non-ablative lasers are less invasive than ablative ones since they don’t damage any of the skin layers and require almost no downtime. Here are some side effects that this type of laser might have:
- Redness and mild swelling that lasts a few hours or a couple of days.
- Infection (flare-up of the herpes virus)
- Changes in skin color such as hyperpigmentation – the treated area becomes temporarily darker.
If you are taking medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane) or Aspirin, you should tell your dermatologist. The former increases the risk of scarring, while the latter increases the risk of bleeding.
The Importance of a Professional Clinician
Facial laser treatments are a great tool to take care of acne scarring, wrinkles, sun spots, spider veins, or redness. Nonetheless, you should be cautious when it comes to this procedure so that you won’t end up with unsatisfactory results.
The extent of the results depends on your clinician. It can be dangerous for you if the person delivering the procedure doesn’t have medical expertise. You should never trust someone who says that you don’t need a medical consultation prior to the treatment.
We can’t emphasize enough how important sunscreen is before and after the treatment. You should not go to your first session with a tan or a sunburn.
This could have a negative effect on your skin and cause severe burns and discolored skin. Not using sun protection after the treatment, can lead to the development of new scars.
At Arcadia Wellness Center, the utmost regard is given to safety and health. Our experienced team will tailor each treatment to your needs for optimum outcomes with minimal risk.
Laser hair removal has been noted to make the skin sensitive. Skipping any important post-treatment items may jeopardize effectiveness. Arcadia Wellness Center offers special aftercare procedures, as well as tips, like, making sure you don’t wear makeup for a couple of days and stick to a gentle skin-care regimen.
Also, services for boosting and enhancing your well-being will include cosmetic injections like Botox and Juvéderm, hormone therapy for imbalances, IV infusion therapy for detoxification and replenishment.
