It’s no secret by now that I’m a skincare junkie. Whether it’s a new product, facial, or technology, I’m always up to try something new as long as there are skincare benefits involved. I’ve tried just about every miracle skincare ingredient out there, and while many of them do deliver great results, they usually take a bit more time. That said, if you’re ready to take your skin to the next level, there’s something else worth trying – laser treatments. Today, I wanted to get a bit more technical and share with you the different types of laser treatments that are available, the ones I’ve tried, and what my experience has been with them. Let’s dive in.
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What are laser treatments for the skin?
Laser treatments are a proven way to help reduce wrinkles, age spots, and acne scars as well as improve skin tone and texture. It works by removing the skin layer by layer to eventually reveal a younger, tighter looking complexion.
There are various types of laster treatments that target specific concerns from acne to sun damage to wrinkles and more. To see the best results, laser treatments are typically done between 3-4 sessions. After each session is completed, you may even need to take extra care of the skin in the days following by wearing SPF, refraining from heavy workouts, and/or avoiding too much daylight.
I’ve been getting various laser treatments done at Union Square Laser Dermatology by Dr. Y. Claire Chang and wanted to tell you guys all about them.
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Redness & Acne Scars: V-Beam Laser Treatment
V-Beam Laser treatment is a pulsed dye laser (PDL) used to treat issues related to the body’s network of blood vessels, such as broken capillaries, rosacea, and redness from acne scars.
V-Beam uses a dye to generate different colors of laser beams, which are delivered in pulses. The different colors of light treat specific areas of the skin and can break down and flush out unwanted dark spots and redness. It works best on fair to medium skin tones.
Immediately after receiving the treatment, my skin felt warm and was slightly swollen but subsided after several hours. But days later, my skin improved significantly – it was so much more youthful, healthy, and even.
Sunspots: Alex TriVantage Laser
I’ve racked up my fair share of sunspots and have been wanting to smooth and even out my complexion. Dr. Chang recommended I try Alex TriVantage Laser, which treats sunspots, freckles and age spots – but is also potent enough to remove unwanted tattoos and birthmarks.
Alex TriVantage Laser works by destroying ink and/or pigments in the skin. The laser energy breaks up the pigment molecules into tiny particles, which the body is eventually able to clean up and remove. I experienced very little discomfort, but in the days following, I noticed red lesions that darkened and gradually exfoliated away.
Dr. Chang advised that my skin would be sensitive following treatment, so I was diligent about applying sunscreen and spending too much time outdoors.
Texture & Firmness: Clear & Brilliant
Clear + Brilliant is a gentle laser resurfacing facial treatment that uses pulsating beams of light to address signs of aging, tone, texture, and sun damage. It works by creating microscopic treatment zones on the surface of the skin that stimulate collagen production to reveal a smoother, clearer complexion.
Unlike V-Beam Laser, Clear + Brilliant is a great treatment for a range of candidates. It’s especially ideal for those who want something stronger than a chemical peel but less intense than a fraxel treatment.
A few days after treatment, my skin felt feel softer and looked brighter. Like most laser treatments, protection from the sun is so important since the skin becomes more delicate and sensitive than usual.
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The Verdict
Union Square Laser Dermatology has a reputation for employing the latest medical technology from the newest lasers to devices and more. I’m very happy with my choice to go with them for my laser treatments.
I appreciate how they tailored my treatments to my desired outcome and skincare concerns. To say I’m pleased with the results would be an understatement. My face looks healthier and youthful – and there’s a huge improvement in my overall skin tone.
I had all three laser treatments done in one session and can’t wait for my follow up another month. If any of you are looking to up your skincare game, I’d highly recommend one of these lasers.
