What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Laser for Wrinkles?

Using a laser for wrinkles can be an effective means of treating the problem. As there are different types of treatments, doctors are better able to select the one that suits an individual's needs. Many people who undergo these procedures are subject to little or no recovery time, and the results can last for years. The side effects that some experience, such as inflammation and wounding, are one of the drawbacks of such a procedure, as are the risks that patients can face. For those who generally address their skin-care issues through measures such as topical products or light chemical peels, laser treatment can seem fairly expensive.

The process of using a laser for wrinkles is generally referred to as laser resurfacing. A basic explanation of this type of procedure is that a laser is used to remove the top layers of skin, revealing smoother, undamaged layers below. There are different types of laser treatments, which allow doctors to more effectively address the needs of different people.

A commonly noted benefit of using a laser for wrinkles is that it is a non-surgical procedure. In some cases, the laser resurfacing is so mild that recovery time is not required. Other, harsher procedures can involve wounding the skin, and recovery may take several weeks. Depending on the type of treatment a person undergoes, however, she may be rewarded with additional benefits, such as tighter skin and improved collagen production.

Many people choose laser resurfacing because they can enjoy the results for an extended period of time, often years. This, however, highlights one of the drawbacks, which is that the results are not permanent. Eventually, wrinkles will begin to reappear and a person will need to have certain areas touched up or have the procedure redone.

With regard to cost, using a laser for wrinkles may be an expensive option for some who have considered procedures that are generally cheaper. These include light chemical peels and microdermabrasion. On the contrary, for those individuals who have considered options such as surgery or injections, laser resurfacing may be viewed as a more affordable option.

Using a laser for wrinkles can work very well in some situations, but these procedures do have their limitations. While fine lines and medium wrinkles may be completely eliminated by laser resurfacing, this is not the best procedure for those with deeply wrinkled skin. Although some people do not experience any side effects, there are some that are considered common, such as swelling, redness, and irritation.

Among the cons of using a laser for wrinkles is the fact that there are greater risks involved in this procedure. If the procedure is not done correctly, an individual could suffer scarring. People with darker skin tones, such as African Americans and those of Indian descent, are often advised to ensure that the doctor who performs their procedure has experience with colored skin. Otherwise, they are at risk of suffering from problems of tone variations. There is also the possibility that the treated area could become infected if the treatment is performed too deeply or the skin is not properly cared for afterward.

There are clearly positives and negatives involved with using a laser for wrinkles. The best source of information about the pros and cons of this procedure for a given situation is an experienced doctor. It is important for a person considering this procedure to schedule a full consultation before concluding that laser resurfacing is the best approach.