There are two types of lasers commonly used to perform laser skin rejuvenation, also known as laser peel or laser skin resurfacing. A third option is also available, with an effective but longer treatment regimen. Many cosmetic dermatologists and laser surgeons choose these tools because they are safe and effective, the best options for a patient regardless of gender or age. In most cases, the decision of which laser skin resurfacing tool to utilize depends on the extent of the work to be done, and to the individual patient.
The CO2 laser is the highest intensity laser treatment available to date for this procedure. Patients treated with this laser immediately see tighter and smoother skin since the laser makes use of heat to restrict the collagen bands in the lower dermis. A CO2 laser has the ability to reduce or even eliminate the appearance of wrinkles, scars, warts, and some birthmarks. In addition, this laser has even been used to treat skin cancer in its most early stages.
Erbium lasers have the ability to strip thinner layers of skin than the stronger but less precise CO2 laser. These lasers are typically a more suitable option for those with darker skin tones since the risk of permanent damage to skin pigmentation is smaller. Erbium lasers have the added benefit of offering faster healing time, so they are an excellent choice for those hoping to treat only minimal wrinkles in small areas.
Fraxel® laser skin resurfacing is very different from similar laser rejuvenation treatments using the erbium or the CO2 laser. Fraxel® laser treatment is non-invasive, so there are relatively few post-treatment side effects. There is very little tenderness or pain to the affected area after undergoing treatment, and no requirement of downtime afterward. Fraxel® laser skin resurfacing is completed in multiple sessions, and gradual improvements (over the course of weeks or months) should be expected.
