What to Expect After Laser Skin Tightening
By Neel Kanase | Published on October 7, 2010 | 0 Comments
Laser skin tightening is one of the most popular cosmetic laser treatments available today. Offering firmer, more resilient, youthful skin, skin tightening is intended to reverse the combined effects of aging and gravity. What can you expect after laser skin tightening? According to Neel Kanase, MD of Amarillo Laser Clinic, a popular medical spa in Amarillo, Texas, the benefits of skin tightening continue to appear for several months after your procedure. Protecting treated skin, however, is an essential part of maintaining your results.
How It Works
Skin tightening works by stimulating the skin’s production of collagen, a fibrous protein that acts as the skin’s natural connective tissue. As we age, Dr. Kanase explains, our skin begins to produce less of this essential “cementing” agent. Because there is less collagen to support and bind the skin, it becomes more susceptible to the effects of gravity. Eventually, the face begins to sag downward and wrinkles are formed.
During Your Procedure
A skin tightening appointment generally takes between 15 and 30 minutes. During the procedure, a laser is used to selectively target collagen while your skin’s surface is left completely unharmed. You will likely experience a feeling of warmth as the treatment is performed. “While we’re targeting the collagen beneath the skin’s surface,” Dr. Kanase says, “we’re actively cooling the surface of the skin to minimize discomfort for the patient.”
After Your Procedure
According to Dr. Kanase, you should see results immediately after your skin tightening procedure. “The deep heating provided by the laser results in an immediate tightening effect,” he says, “so you’ll notice an improvement in your skin’s appearance right away.” What’s exciting about laser skin tightening, however, is that your results will continue to improve for several months after your treatment.
Because skin tightening is completely non-invasive and the surface of the skin is undisturbed, there is zero downtime, Dr. Kanase says. You are free to resume your normal activities right away. Some patients experience some redness, which can easily be covered with cosmetics and normally goes away within a few hours. You shouldn’t experience any pain or discomfort after your procedure.
The expected results from laser skin tightening are firmer, tighter skin and a reduction in the appearance of lines and wrinkles. If your skin is properly cared for, the results of your skin tightening treatment may last as long as two years. Because the real benefits of skin tightening are achieved by the skin’s own healing process, your skin’s appearance will continue to improve for several months after the procedure as lost collagen is rebuilt.
Precautions
You will need to take certain precautions after your laser skin tightening procedure, says Dr. Kanase. “Skin that undergoes laser treatment,” he says, “is more prone to sun damage than untreated skin.” For this reason, it’s essential to protect your skin from excess sun exposure. The daily use of sunscreen on all exposed areas of skin is the best way to maintain the results of your skin tightening procedure.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.