Question:
There seem to be a lot of different lasers used for laser skin resurfacing. Does it make that much of a difference which laser is used? What are some of the more common or more effective lasers and what are they appropriate for treating?
Answer:
There are many different lasers used for resurfacing or other skin treatments. The wavelength of the laser is the primary determinant of what the laser is used for. In resurfacing, usually either a carbon dioxide or erbium laser is used. It makes a difference which laser is used although within the resurfacing family of lasers equal results can be obtained with the appropriate laser and user. The hottest change in lasers is the introduction of fractionated laser treatments. These lasers remove only a percentage of the surface area of the skin instead of the entire outer layer. This allows for a great deal of improvement, but decreases the recovery time. These lasers are used to treat pigmentation, wrinkles, sun damage, tighten the skin and temporarily can reduce pore size.
Posted by Dr. Buckingham
