Want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall tone of your skin, but aren’t quite ready for a surgical facelift yet? Guess what, this month’s blog has one potential answer: Laser skin resurfacing. This non-invasive cosmetic procedure uses optically amplified beams of light to remove wrinkles and improve the tone and texture of the skin. Also known as photorejuvenation, laser treatments are the cutting edge in aesthetic tech and result in bright, smooth skin for a wide range of skin types.
This out-patient procedure, performed at our Marin County surgery center, uses a state-of-the art laser, the Sciton Joule, the world’s only expandable device capable of offering three different laser technologies in one. By offering Broadband Light (BBL), Erbium MLP (Micro Laser Peel), and ProFractional procedure options, the Sciton Joule allows the team at Plastic Surgery Specialists to target a variety of skin issues at one time. Below, let’s break down what each of these three modes, all available in this one magic device, can do for you.
Broadband Light (BBL)
Often referred to as Intense Pulsed Light, IPL or a FotoFacial, Sciton’s photodynamic skin rejuvenation treatment is called the Forever Young BBL (BroadBand Light). This treatments utilize an intense, visible, broad-spectrum pulse of light. The light’s electromagnetic wavelengths correct certain colors, either reds seen in rosacea, broken capillaries, or red spots, etc., browns as seen in uneven pigmentation and brown spots, or both. BBL pinpoints particular pigments and selectively destroys them. BBL treatments are performed in a series, usually spaced three weeks apart. Most people will require three to five treatments to achieve the best results. However, early positive changes become apparent even after the first treatment. By the end of the series, most people report a more uniform and even skin tone.
Erbium MLP (Micro Laser Peel)
MLP (Micro Laser Peel) is the component of laser resurfacing that provides an excellent treatment for people with uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, and skin laxity. MLPs resurface the epidermis (the top layer of the skin), resulting in a more uniform color and a softer response. The procedure also addresses fine lines and enlarged pores. Most people report some tightening in the treated skin as well. Our PSS medical specialists often prefer to perform MLP treatments in a series, depending on the severity of the condition of concern. We find we can achieve even better results when we combine MLP with the other lasers in the same device. Deeper and more dramatic results come with a bit of downtime and may require some light anesthesia in the form of topical numbing cream or numbing injections.
ProFractional Light
When combined with either a BBL or an MLP, ProFractional laser treatment usually requires only one or two sessions. The ProFractional treatment is remarkably pain-free, and the downtime is far shorter than comparable light-based procedures. Most people require three to five days for a full resolution of any redness and swelling.
The ProFractional treatment provided by PSS utilizes an Erbium Yag Laser to partially remove surface damage to the skin. Most importantly, the laser is able to penetrate below the surface of the skin into the dermis where collagen and elastin exist. These are the support structures of your skin. With a finely controlled ProFractional treatment, patients see the removal of fine lines and deep wrinkles. The procedure may also shrink enlarged pores, improve the texture and tone of the skin, and reduce skin laxity. It is ideal for treating acne and its residual scarring as well.
If you’re ready to turn back the clock on your skin, and you’re looking for a procedure that requires no downtime, give us a call at (415) 925-2880 to schedule your consultation today.