What is laser skin lightening?

Non-Ablative Skin Lightening

Non-ablative laser lightening is a non-invasive procedure that uses specialized heat to penetrate the skin and treat it. Unlike with ablative laser treatment, which removes the top layer of the skin completely, this lightening treatment only targets the lower layers of skin, triggering the growth of new collagen.

Since it doesn’t damage the surface of your skin, recovery time is much quicker.

Usually, you can get back to your normal life after a day or two. Also, the use of special creams and ointments are usually not necessary. But depending on your skin type, your doctor may also prescribe creams and medication to prevent infection and other side effects from occurring. Since this procedure is less aggressive, more treatments are needed to see significant results.

Common non-ablative laser procedures are as follows:

• Nd: YAG Laser. This method uses a special type of crystal, known as neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum, to produce a wavelength of high energy light, which is then used to target and destroy dead skin cells. This laser is able to penetrate the skin deeply without damaging the skin’s surface. It also stimulates the growth of new cells and essential nutrients, which are vital for having younger and healthier skin. However, this procedure is known to have a lower success rate with common side effects, including redness, swelling, bruising, and changes in skin pigmentation.

• Pulsed-Dye Laser. PDL utilizes a high-intensity light that can be used to treat different skin problems, such as scars, keloids, psoriasis, warts, and melasma. This light is converted into heat, targeting the blood vessels that are causing the redness and darkening of the skin. Side effects are usually minimal, which may include bruising and itching.

Laser skin lightening, both ablative and non-ablative, may take 20-30 minutes to complete, depending on the size of the skin that needs to be treated. For severe cases, the treatment may take up to 2 hours.

Ablative laser procedures are typically painful so anesthesia is given before the beginning of treatment. For more extensive treatment, you will be sedated. Non-ablative laser procedures usually don’t require anesthesia. But if necessary, your surgeon will apply anesthetic agents or cooling ointments to make the procedure more comfortable.

Conclusion

Laser skin lightening is, indeed, a fast and effective treatment for whitening skin. However, it is also important to take into consideration the potential risks that you may encounter once you undergo this kind of treatment. For best results, ask a trusted dermatologist or doctor for more advice and information.