Laser skin resurfacing treatments can provide amazing results for your skin, but unfortunately many are scared away from these treatments by misunderstanding. They’ve been told that laser treatments, while effective, require significant downtime after treatment for healing. With busy lives and hectic schedules, they just don’t have time to spend days or weeks recovering and assume that laser treatments aren’t a possibility for their busy lives. If you’ve stayed away from laser treatments due to fears about recovery, fear no more. There are actually two types of laser treatments (ablative and non-ablative) and recovery varies quite a bit depending on the type of treatment you choose. Here we have discussed the difference between ablative vs non-ablative laser skin resurfacing

Difference Between Ablative vs Non-Ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing

Ablative laser treatments use an intense wavelength of light to remove outer layers of damaged skin. Often these laser treatments are referred to as CO₂ lasers or wounding lasers. They are highly effective at removing skin imperfections like age spots, pigmentation problems, etc. Since ablative laser treatments require significant downtime due to healing they are often paired with cosmetic surgeries where the patient is already planning some recovery time. Ablative treatments aren’t always recommended for darker skin types.

Like ablative laser treatments, non-ablative treatments are highly effective, but have the added benefit of almost no recovery time. Recovery after a non-ablative treatment is minimal; most patients come in for treatment and head right back to their regular activities. Makeup can often be applied right after a treatment so no one needs to know you’ve been in. Typically non-ablative lasers can be used on any skin type and color.

Our Approach

Here at Beatitude Aesthetic Medicine and Acne Center we offer a variety of non-ablative laser treatments. Each of these treatments is specially selected by Dr. Chang for its effective results and quick healing. If you’re interested in receiving laser skin rejuvenation, come see us; we’ll help you decide which treatment will be the most effective option for your specific skin concerns.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the non-ablative and fractional treatments we offer:

• Spectra Laser– The Spectra Laser uses both light and chemical compounds to achieve its stunning results. This treatment is effective for pigmentation problems (even severe ones). Each treatment takes about 20-30 minutes with multiple treatments needed for best results.
• Fraxel DUAL Laser– Offering targeted treatment to your problem areas, the Fraxel DUAL laser can smooth wrinkles, lighten sun damage, and improve the appearance of discoloration and melasma. Dr. Chang uses this laser on the face as well as other areas of the body (including the hands and chest).
• SkinFinity– Fighting fine lines, stretch marks, acne scars, and loose skin, SkinFinity is a quick and easy solution to some of your biggest skin concerns. Skin looks immediately improved after treatment with continued improvement over the next six months. A series of treatments is typically needed every four to six weeks.

If you’ve been afraid to give laser treatments a try, come in and see us at Beatitude. Our non-ablative lasers will help you skin look great without the long recovery periods required from ablative laser treatments. Call us today at 619-280-1609.