Skin rejuvenation describes a vast number of procedures that can make a person’s skin look more youthful. Depending on the procedure, they can erase wrinkles or blemishes, make the face appear fuller, or treat minor scars.
Some methods, like facelifts, involve surgery, while others, like laser resurfacing do not.
What is a photofacial?
The word “photofacial” or “fotofacial” describes any skin treatment that uses light-based technology.
A photofacial is done to boost collagen production or treat brown spots or broken capillaries. There are two main types: IPL and LED.
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and it is a type of laser treatment that is often administered at medical spas. The doctor uses a handheld device to deliver a bright beam of light at very high energy levels.
IPL photofacials are used to treat various skin discolorations.
LED stands for Light-Emitting Diode, and it uses narrow spectrum light to kill acne-causing bacteria or boost collagen production. The latter treatment results in plumper skin and a more youthful look.
Day spas offer LED photofacials, which have the advantage of being painless. LED photofacials also don’t burn the client, and the procedure is quite relaxing and pleasant.
What is laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a skin treatment used to treat minor scars, wrinkles, and discolorations like liver spots. The doctor uses a laser that emits pulses of high-energy light.
Chromophores and water in the skin absorb the light and convert it into heat that vaporizes thin layers of the skin.
Laser resurfacing is extremely precise, so the lasers do not damage any surrounding tissues. It is most commonly done to the face, but can be done to other parts of the body.
Laser resurfacing is usually done in a doctor’s office or outpatient surgery center. The doctor will clean the area to be treated and give the patient a local or general anesthetic, and protective glasses.
The recovery time depends on the size of the area being resurfaced. The doctor will want to monitor the patient during recovery to check the patient for signs of infection or other complications.
What is skin tightening?
Skin tightening is a treatment that makes loose skin contract. It also boosts collagen production and gets rid of wrinkles.
In laser skin retightening, the doctor uses an infrared laser to heat the collagen beneath the skin and thus stimulate it. The increased amount of collagen tightens the skin and smooths wrinkles.
The results of the treatment are immediately noticeable and last for several months. Most patients may need two or three treatments to get the best results.
If you’re interested in rejuvenating your skin, contact the office of Dr. Nancy Shibayama, M.D. today to make an appointment.
