LASER SKIN REJUVENATION FOR WRINKLE TREATMENT, UNEVEN SKIN TONE

Fraxel is one of the most popular cosmetic brands for laser skin treatments, both for laser skin rejuvenation and laser resurfacing. The three Fraxel laser systems address an array of skin issues, from mild to severe, with high precision. Since Fraxel laser skin rejuvenation treatments are fractional, they target only specific areas and leave surrounding skin unaffected.

In “Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation, Part 1 and 2,” we discussed the 2014 ASDS Consumer Survey on Cosmetic Dermatologic Proceduresresults. Released by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) in July, it reveals consumers are most considering cosmetic procedures that reduce wrinkles and provide better skin tone.“Both laser resurfacing to smooth wrinkles and skin-tightening via high-frequency ultrasound have become safer and typically produce good results,” says ASDS President-Elect George J. Hruza, MD. “I would hypothesize that’s one of the reasons both are top treatments under consideration.”

We previously covered monopolar radiofrequency treatments with Thermage and laser skin rejuvenation with Spectra, a dual-pulsed, Q-switched Nd: YAG laser with four wavelength modes (532, 585, 650 and 1064 nm). In the third segment, we’ll discuss Fraxel laser skin treatment options

LASER SKIN TREATMENT WITH FRAXEL RE:FINE, DUAL AND RE:PAIR

The basis of all laser skin treatment options is to stimulate new collagen, which then addresses and alleviates the skin concern by stimulating new collagen production. Fraxel lasers are either a fractional non-ablative laser skin treatment (Fraxel re:fine and Fraxel DUAL) or ablative laser resurfacing (Fraxel re:pair).

Laser skin rejuvenation treatments target aging skin, eradicate fine lines and wrinkles, improve overall skin tone, minimize acne scarring, and more. All three are fractional photothermolysis laser skin treatments, a technology Fraxel pioneered in 2001 that treats microscopic volumes of skin with each pulse. Dr. Umar of FineTouch Dermatology says that downtime is shorter for healing due to the laser skin treatment technique.

The re:fine and DUAL aggravate the skin’s surface and slightly below, while the re:pair ablates (vaporizes) tissue on the deer epidermis layer. Fractional non-ablative treatments are safe on all skin tones, Fitzpatrick scale I to VI. The fractional ablative treatment is safe on light to medium skin types, I to III. Each laser skin rejuvenation treatment addresses specific skin issues based on the severity of the patient’s skin concerns and skin tone. With all three, light energy heats the skin surface and/or the deeper skin layers to stimulate collage production and start the wound healing process.

Fraxel laser skin rejuvenation breaks down the original collagen fibers of the scars and is replaced with new fibers*

FRAXEL DUAL LASER RESURFACING AND WRINKLE TREATMENT

Fraxel DUAL is the most popular laser for Dr. U’s patients to treat an array of mild to moderate skin concerns with its dual lasers. The 1927 nm wavelength Thulium fiber laser works more superficially. The 1550 nm wavelength Erbium fiber laser works on deeper layers of the skin and is more intense.

Fraxel DUAL laser skin treatments are FDA approved for skin resurfacing and soft tissue coagulation procedures; treatment of periorbital wrinkles (crow’s feet); treatment of acne scars and surgical scars; and treatment of pigmented legions, including senile lentigos, solar lentigos, actinic keratosis and melasma. It also works on all skin types and areas of the body, with a typical treatment regimen of three to five sessions with intervals of two to four weeks.

Fraxel’s family of lasers addresses an array of skin conditions, from mild to severe. It’s best to consult with a dermatologist such as Dr. U to see which laser Fraxel laser rejuvenation treatment is best for you. Schedule an appointment with FineTouch Dermatology so Dr. U can explain each specific Fraxel laser and what each laser has FDA clearance for.

Laser skin rejuvenation treatments stimulate collagen production.*

Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation Part 3: Fraxel first appeared on FineTouch Dermatology, FineTouch Dermatology - Face the World with New Confidence.

LASER SKIN REJUVENATION OPTIONS WITH SPECTRA AND FRAXEL

Laser skin rejuvenation options with Lutronic’s Spectra laser and Fraxel lasers target aging skin, eradicate fine lines and wrinkles, treat sun damage, improve overall skin tone and more. Results from laser skin rejuvenation also improve complexion, reduce most signs of aging and minimize imperfections.Dr. Umar of FineTouch Dermatology says it’s no surprise that these laser skin treatments are two of the most popular for those considering cosmetic enhancements due to their safety and efficacy.

In “Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation Part 1,” we discussed the survey results from the 2014 ASDS Consumer Survey on Cosmetic Dermatologic Procedures. Released in July by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), it reveals consumers want treatments that minimize wrinkles and improve skin tone. The two most popular procedures include ultrasound, laser, light and radiofrequency treatments for wrinkles and skin tightening (45 percent of respondents); and laser and light treatments for redness, tone and scars (41 percent of respondents).

Technological advances have improved the results of laser skin treatment and light treatment for redness, skin tone and scars.“Dermatologic surgeons are — and have been — at the forefront in developing laser, light and energy-based treatments,” says ASDS President-Elect George J. Hruza, MD. “Devices and protocols have improved significantly in the past few years, making these minimally or non-invasive procedures we perform safer and more effective than ever.”

Laser skin rejuvenation with Spectra improves active acne, large pores, dull skin tone and skin texture.*

While Thermage is an ideal monopolar radiofrequency procedure for a skin- tightening and wrinkle treatment, Dr. U says it does not address more moderate to severe skin issues. Laser skin treatment options with Spectra and Fraxel offer more ways for skin rejuvenation and laser resurfacing.

LASER SKIN TREATMENT FOR WRINKLES, UNEVEN COMPLEXION

Spectra is a dual-pulsed, Q-switched Nd: YAG laser that offers four wavelength modes — 532, 585, 650 and 1064 nm— for laser skin treatment to address an array of skin issues. These multiple laser modes and power settings maximize treatment options, and allow treatment of large areas (up to 8 mm spot size). There is little to no downtime for any of the Spectra settings, except for laser tattoo removal.

Depending on the specific nanometer wavelength used, the laser skin treatment enables laser toning and non-ablative photo-acoustic laser skin rejuvenation techniques. Dr. U uses Spectra as an effective laser skin rejuvenation treatment for pigment issues, vascular changes, non-ablative laser resurfacing and even tattoo removal. It also improves active acne, large pores, dull skin tone, skin texture, wrinkles, age spots, pigmented lesions, melasma, rosacea and photodamage.

The “Spectra mode” is ideal for non-ablative pore reduction and skin texture improvement, while the 532 nm setting is effectively treats sun spots and flat seborrheic keratosis (SK). Its 1064 nm wavelength also addresses the issue of hyperpigmentation, such as melasma, and uneven skin tone for the Fitzpatrick Scale skin types I to V.

Laser skin treatment with Lutronic’s Spectra laser and Fraxel lasers address uneven skin tone, melasma, age spots, wrinkles and more. Image courtesy of www.newbeauty.com.*

Laser energy targets, gently breaks and ablates the pigment in melanoma for laser skin rejuvenation.*

FDA APPROVALS FOR SPECTRA SKIN REJUVENATION AND LASER RESURFACING

Spectra’s 1064 nm wavelength is FDA approved for laser resurfacing of acne scars and wrinkles; and treatment of dermal pigmented lesions, including but not limited to Nevus of Ota, lentigines, nevi (moles and various types of birthmarks) and melasma. The same wavelength is also approved for the reduction of red pigmentation in hypertrophic and keloid scars where vascularity is an integral part of the scar (excludes the 650nm wavelength); reduction of benign cutaneous lesions, including but not limited to striae (stretch marks) and scars (excludes the 650nm wavelength); removal or lightening of hair with or without adjuvant preparation; and tattoo removal (dark ink: blue and black).

The 532 nm wavelength (nominal delivered energy of 585 nm and 650 nm wavelengths with the dye laser handpiece) is FDA approved for laser skin resurfacing of acne scars and wrinkles; reduction of red pigmentation in hypertrophic and keloid scars where vascularity is an integral part of the scar (excludes the 650nm wavelength); and benign cutaneous lesions, including but not limited to striae and scars (excludes the 650nm wavelength). The same wavelength is also approved for vascular lesions, including but not limited to port wine birthmarks, telangiectasias (dialated blood vessels), cherry angioma, and spider nevi and spider angioma (spider veins); epidermal pigmented lesions, including but not limited to cafe-au-lait birthmarks, solar lentiginos (sun spots), senile lentiginos (age spots), Becker’s nevi, freckles, nevus spilus, and seborrheic keratosis; and tattoo removal (light ink: red, sky blue, green).

In “Wrinkle Treatment and Rejuvenation, Part 3,” we’ll discuss laser skin treatment options more in-depth. It’s important to always consult with a board certified laser skin rejuvenation specialist such as Dr. U to determine the best course of laser skin treatment. Dr. U has helped thousands of Los Angeles residents achieve radiant, beautiful skin at FineTouch Dermatology.

Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation Part 2: Spectra first appeared on FineTouch Dermatology, FineTouch Dermatology - Face the World with New Confidence.

RADIOFREQUENCY WRINKLE TREATMENT AND LASER SKIN REJUVENATION OPTIONS

If you are thinking about booking your next dermatology appointment for a skin-tightening radiofrequency wrinkle treatment or laser skin rejuvenation treatment as top priorities to improve your appearance, you are not alone. A survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) released in July reveals that the most popular procedures that consumers are considering reduce wrinkles and provide better skin tone, inclusive of radiofrequency and laser skin treatments. Three of the top four treatments also involve lasers, light, ultrasound and radiofrequency devices. Results from the 2014 ASDS Consumer Survey on Cosmetic Dermatologic Procedures survey include opinions from more than 8,300 consumers regarding cosmetic treatments in general, as well as their ratings for 10 specific procedures. For the two most popular cosmetic procedures, 45 percent of respondents are considering ultrasound, laser, light and radiofrequency treatments for wrinkles and skin tightening; and 41 percent are considering laser and light treatments for redness, tone and scars. Chemical peels and body sculpting ranked next on the list of procedures being considered.

RADIOFREQUENCY WRINKLE TREATMENT AND SKIN TIGHTENING WITH THERMAGE

If you want to fight off minimal to moderate signs of aging with skin tightening and minimize fine lines with a wrinkle treatment, Dr. Umar of FineTouch Dermatology says Thermage is an excellent option to accomplish both. Thermage is a non-ablative, non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses monopolar radiofrequency, a form of electrical energy that is modulated in a way to heat the deeper layers of skin. This process denatures (alters) collagen within the skin, similar to creating a wound that shrinks during the healing process and tightens skin. There will be some immediate contraction of the skin tissues and further subsequent contraction as new collagen is manufactured during the repair process. Thermage skin-tightening procedures reduce the signs of aging and are also effective anti-aging wrinkle treatments. The monopolar radiofrequency provides a way to tighten the underlying tissue of the skin without surgery and the downtime associated with cosmetic surgery and other more invasive methods, such as lasers or chemical peels. Dr. U says it is not a substitute for a surgical facelift or more intense ablative laser treatment to improve more severe skin issues, but Thermage is ideal if you require a more moderate wrinkle treatment and skin tightening. Thermage tightens facial and neck skin, tightens and lifts eyelids, and reduces hooding eyelids that characteristically droop. It is also used for nonsurgical brow lifts and as a nonsurgical wrinkle treatment to tighten facial wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, the mid and lower face, and neck. An additional benefit of Thermage is continued skin tightening over time due to collagen production. This anti-aging regimen and wrinkles treatment lasts two years or longer, depending upon physiology and natural aging process.

Thermage is a non-ablative, non-invasive skin-tightening and wrinkle treatment that uses mono polar radio frequency. Image courtesy of Thermage.*

Typically only one treatment is required, though a second treatment may be more beneficial if you have very thick skin. Results are near immediate with smoother, tighter skin and very minimal downtime. Dr. U says you can typically resume normal activity the next day following the procedure, although some redness and swelling may occur. Oral sedation and analgesia are employed on almost everyone to minimize pain due to the heat of the Thermage treatment, though additional intravenous medication is sometimes used. Thermage is FDA approved for electrocoagulation and hemostasis (skin tightening); wrinkle treatment of periorbital wrinkles (wrinkling around the eyes) and rhytids (skin wrinkles), including upper and lower eyelids; and treatment of wrinkles and rhytids. It’s also FDA approved for the temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite; temporary improvement in local circulation (blood circulation); relief of minor muscle aches and pains; and relief of muscle spasms. Since Thermage wrinkle treatment and skin tightening results are usually subtle than more invasive cosmetic treatments and manifest themselves over time, Dr. U’s portfolio of before and after patient photos give you better idea results. Studies show one in 10 patients see significant improvements at the end of the treatment; however, some people will not see much improvement immediately and need to wait three weeks to several months for maximum results.

LASER SKIN TREATMENT OPTIONS WITH SPECTRA AND FRAXEL

Two of the most popular laser skin treatment options are with Lutronic’s Spectra laser and Fraxel lasers to address uneven skin tone, age spots, wrinkles and more. Each particular laser skin treatment— including three options from Fraxel — address specific skin issues depending on severity. All of them, however, stimulate new collagen production for laser skin rejuvenation. Additionally, they can also act as an anti-aging treatment. In “Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation Part 2: Spectra,” we’ll discuss laser skin treatment options more in-depth. It’s always important to consult with a board certified dermatologist such as Dr. U to determine the best course of treatment. Differences in skin pigment, skin type and skin issue are all guiding factors for deciding on a Thermage treatment and laser skin treatment.

Wrinkle Treatment and Laser Skin Rejuvenation Part 1: Thermage first appeared on FineTouch Dermatology, FineTouch Dermatology - Face the World with New Confidence.

Unfortunately, not even the best anti-aging lifestyle regimens can prevent aging. In Wrinkle Treatment with Laser Skin Rejuvenation and Nonsurgical Facelift Options: Part 1, we discussed how aging and environmental damage negatively affect the skin with wrinkles, sagging skin, loss of facial volume and definition loss along the jowls. Although a healthy lifestyle can prolong the appearance of aging, oftentimes a nonsurgical cosmetic treatment or nonsurgical cosmetic procedure is needed. Fortunately, wrinkle treatment with laser skin rejuvenation and nonsurgical facelift options are numerous.

Wrinkle treatment with laser skin rejuvenation and nonsurgical facelift options address the signs of aging, improve appearance or are helpful to incorporate into an anti-aging treatments regimen. An array of anti-aging treatments and nonsurgical cosmetic treatments help maintain a youthful appearance, counteract sagging skin, eliminate wrinkles and increase facial symmetry.

SKIN-TIGHTENING TREATMENTS AND WRINKLE TREATMENT WITH LASER SKIN REJUVENATION

To counteract the signs of aging and environmental damage, Dr. Umar offers procedures and treatments that tighten and rejuvenate skin, replenish hydration loss and stimulate collagen production. Which option is best for you should be discussed with a dermatologist since it depends on your skin’s needs, cosmetic goals and goals.

Skin Tightening Techniques

Skin-tightening treatments, such as Thermage, tightens skin and improves skin sagging issues. It’s a non-ablative, nonsurgical cosmetic treatment technique that uses electric and magnetic energy (radiofrequency). With little downtime, Thermage works in just one treatment with little down time. However, Thermage is highly effective only if you have the first few minimal signs of aging.

Thermage addresses fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, plus has tightening effects on the upper and lower eyelids. It’s also effective on the face for eradicating fine lines, addressing jowls and for overall facial tightening.

Thermage is effective at tightening the skin at the jawline and under the jaw on the neck. This nonsurgical facelift procedure is also safe for use on the entire body. Additionally, Thermage has the potential to temporarily diminish the appearance of cellulite.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation

These nonsurgical facelift procedures and wrinkles treatments work by stimulating new collagen production. The increased collagen improves complexion unevenness, minimizes age spots and diminishes wrinkles.

Popular wrinkle treatment with laser skin rejuvenation options:

• Fraxel
• Spectra

Fraxel also offers versatility with three laser models for wrinkle treatment with laser skin rejuvenation. This includes Fraxel re:fine, Fraxel DUAL and Fraxel re:pair for laser skin rejuvenation. The non-ablative Fraxel re:fine and Fraxel DUAL may be used on all skin types. The ablative Fraxel re:pair may only be used on light to medium skin tones.

Fraxel Dual not only helped this patient clear unwanted age spots, but also other issues such as large pores*

Spectra offer versatility in anti-aging treatments as a nonsurgical cosmetic treatment. Spectra has four wavelengths of 532, 585, 650 and 1,064-nanometer increments. It is a dual mode Q-switched laser. It’s also effective at treating pigmented lesions and is suitable for dark skin tones.

Your dermatologist will determine which wrinkle treatment with laser skin rejuvenation options treatment should be used will be determined by Factors include the severity of your signs of aging and skin tone.

To learn more about nonsurgical facelifts and dermal fillers, read Wrinkle Treatment with Laser Skin Rejuvenation and Nonsurgical Facelift Options: Part 3.

Wrinkle Treatment with Laser Skin Rejuvenation and Nonsurgical Facelift Options: Part 2 first appeared on FineTouch Dermatology, FineTouch Dermatology - Face the World with New Confidence.

Skin’s elasticity allows your skin to stretch and then return to its original state. Skin in younger individuals is more elastic due to their coinciding thick dermis. Skin in older individuals is less elastic due to a thinner dermis. Skin doesn’t snap back as quickly, which also leads to sagging. Below are some lifestyle tips to improve and maintain skin’s elasticity. It also details some of the most common reasons your skin is more prone to it. Improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage is also possible with the assistance of your dermatologist.

REASONS FOR LOSS OF ELASTICITY

Loss of elasticity, known as elastosis, is a natural progression of your skin aging. These are common contributors to skin changes and lifestyle choices that affect aging.

Diet: An unhealthy diet lacking proper nutritional needs causes damage to the skin, including elasticity loss. Additionally, too much sugar wrecks havoc on your skin and leads to sagging.

Stress: Abnormal amounts of stress can lead to hormonal imbalances in your body. This may also contribute to other skin and body issues due to the reduction of proteins that aid elasticity.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: UV rays can penetrate and change skin cells with sun exposure. UV light also causes loss of skin elasticity, wrinkles and age spots. Chronic, excessive exposure also leads to signs of premature aging.

Genes: Genes are one of the biggest factors to loss of elasticity and skin sagging. Genetic, as well as environmental, conditions determine just how much your skin will wrinkle, sag and lose elasticity. It also contributes to when you will see your first signs of aging.

REVERSING THE DAMAGE OF SKIN ELASTICITY

Since you now understand some of the major reasons for elasticity loss, you can now take steps to reverse the damage and improve the overall appearance of your skin. And not to fear, if these methods don’t show enough improvement you can speak with your dermatologist about improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage.

Take vitamins: Consult with your dermatologist about skin supplements and vitamins you can take. Those with Vitamin C and Vitamin E help to improve the elasticity of skin. Creams and serums rich in vitamin sources are also another way to add vitamins to your skin.

Wear sunscreen: Exposure to UV light results in sunburn, also known as erythema. Exposure to UV light causes photoaging. Avoid the sun and use a good sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. It should be applied daily to areas of the body exposed to sun and the face. When you are in direct sunlight for extended periods, swimming or sweating, applied sunscreen every two hours.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to nourish your cells and stay properly hydrated. Without proper hydration, skin will appear dull and listless.

Avoid very hot showers and baths: Don’t bathe in hot water to prevent damaging and drying out skin. Water that is too hot has harmful effects to your skin. If you have an injury and want to soak, speak with your doctor about an ideal water temperature.

Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize.:  Using a good moisturizer is paramount to retaining a glowing, youthful skin. Your dermatologist can offer advice on brands and types best suited for your skin type.

Exercise: Not only does exercise shed pounds and improve mental health, it improves skin elasticity. Do at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily to improve circulation in the skin, which boosts blood circulation and speeds waste product removal.

Eat protein: Proteins are very important for good collagen and elasticity. Include in your diet: eggs, peanut butter, almonds, salmon and sardines.

Eat fruits & vegetables: Fruits and vegetable also improve your skin’s elasticity and prevents it from sagging. Include in your diet: broccoli, carrots, oranges, strawberries, mangoes and avocado.

Improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage is also possible with the assistance of your dermatologist.

IMPROVING SKIN’S ELASTICITY WITH THERMAGE FOR A MORE YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE

Thermage is a non-ablative treatment technique for improving skin’s elasticity and to counteract sagging. Improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage uses electric and magnetic energy (radiofrequency) and works in just one treatment with little down time. Improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage works best on those who have the first signs of aging.

Thermage is effective for overall facial tightening, eradicating fine lines and improving sagging jowls. It also targets fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, as well on the lower and upper eyelids for tightening. A sagging jawline is a main indicator of age, so improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage tightens your jawline and under the jaw on your neck. A non-surgical facelift procedure, it’s also safe for use on the entire body and has the potential to temporary diminish the appearance of cellulite.

An additional benefit improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage is collagen production, which aids continued tightening over time. Thermage treatments lasts two years or longer depending upon the patient’s natural aging process. Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss the benefits of improving skin’s elasticity with Thermage.

Improving Skin’s Elasticity with Thermage first appeared on FineTouch Dermatology, FineTouch Dermatology - Face the World with New Confidence.