Laser Season Is Here: Learn Everything You Need to Know

As fall and winter approach, joy is in the air as the weather begins to cool and loved ones gather for the holidays. But did you know that it’s also the best time of year for laser treatment? Amidst the holidays approaching, this time of year is also known as laser treatment season.

Keep reading to learn from two of our expert plastic surgeons at Serene Aesthetic Surgery and Med Spa, Charis Nunez, APRN, and Brittany Struble, APRN. They’ll explain more about laser treatment, including how it works, its success rate, recovery time and why fall and winter are the best times of year for it.

What Is Laser Treatment and How Does It Work?

“A laser treatment is a procedure that uses a focused beam of light to target specific tissue in the body,” says Charis. These treatments can be used for various medical and cosmetic purposes. “What many people don’t know is that LASER is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation,” says Brittany. The laser light is converted into heat, which damages or removes the targeted tissue, such as pigment, blood vessels, hair follicles or skin.

Laser treatment can be used for a variety of reasons, including:

• Acne scar reduction
• Hair removal
• Vascular lesion removal
• Wrinkle treatment

“Here at the Serene Aesthetic Surgery and Med Spa, we use a variety of laser wavelengths to treat your specific needs and meet your goals,” explains Charis.

Are There Medical Reasons to Receive Laser Treatment?

Many people think laser treatments are primarily for aesthetic and cosmetic purposes, but there are instances where they’re medically necessary. “Some medical instances include eye conditions, some cancer treatments, gynecology conditions and vascular or heart procedures,” says Brittany. Using laser treatment for various medical instances offers many benefits, including greater precision and reduced damage to surrounding tissue, a faster procedure and a more manageable recovery.

“At Serene Aesthetic Surgery and Med Spa, we specialize in cosmetic laser treatments for hair reduction, sun damage, spider veins, rosacea and broken capillaries,” says Charis. Talk to your primary care provider to determine if laser treatment is right for you and your unique health needs.

Candidacy for Laser Treatment and Its Success Rate

Laser treatments are great for those who wish to improve their skin tone, texture and overall appearance. “The best candidates are generally healthy individuals with sun damage, fine lines, scars, redness or uneven pigmentation,” Brittany shares. “The patient must be committed to good skincare and sun protection for optimal results. But we have a laser that’s safe for all types of skin.”

Laser hair reduction has a successful track record overall, with most patients experiencing a 70-90% long-term reduction in hair growth. “For the greatest success, six to 10 sessions are needed, which are spaced four to eight weeks apart,” Charis explains. After all sessions have been completed, the results are long-lasting, but annual touch-ups are necessary to maintain them.

“Laser skin resurfacing is equally successful in its own way,” says Brittany. “Depending on the type of laser used, patients often see 50 to 80% improvement in wrinkles, scars and uneven pigmentation.” Whether using an ablative laser for significant changes or a nonablative option for more gradual refinement, laser skin resurfacing can help you achieve your skin goals and boost your confidence.

Why are Fall and Winter the Best Time of Year for It?

Brittany tells us that “The best time for laser treatments is typically during the fall and winter months when sun exposure is minimal. Scheduling your laser treatments during these months ensures optimal results and a safer recovery process.” Because your skin is typically lighter this time of year, laser hair removal allows your skin to heal more safely, reducing the risk of pigmentation changes and post-laser sensitivity.

LASER Treatment Recovery Time

Recovery time for laser treatments varies based on the type of treatment you received. “For laser hair removal, downtime is minimal, and patients may experience mild redness or swelling for a few hours, but can return to normal activities immediately,” Charis explains. On the other hand, laser skin resurfacing requires a longer recovery time. Brittany elaborates, “Nonablative lasers usually cause mild redness or swelling for one to three days, while ablative lasers may require one to three weeks for the skin to fully heal.”

The most important things are to follow the post-procedure requirements from your provider and to protect your skin from the sun. Doing this ensures a smooth recovery and provides optimal results.

Compassionate Skincare for Your Every Need

No matter what brings you to our Serene Aesthetics Surgery and Med Spa, you’ll receive the compassionate care you deserve. Visit us here to request an appointment. We’re committed to helping you look and feel your best.