What type of laser facial would be best to improve my skin? (photos)

Question

I’m considering a laser facial for discoloration and fillers for my nasal folds and under eye area. What type of laser would be best to even out my skin tone on my face and chest? Recovery time is not a concern. I’m looking at HALO, CoolPeel with Microneedeling, Motus, or IPL. Currently use Retin-A topical and have used hydroquinone in the past. My skin type is normal.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fraxel and/or CO2 are best for resurfacing, but Erbium and Halo are good alternatives. I always combine lasers with microneedling/PRP for more robust outcomes. For skin tightening, I recommend a combination of Ultherapy with RF treatments and Sculptra for skin tightening. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello,
It would appear that you are performing due diligence in exploring the different options.  This can be quite overwhelming.  For issues with brown discoloration related to sun spots, we reach for the QYAGV laser.  Q-switched YAG or Alex lasers are very focused on removing brown spots while leaving the skin intact.  Although an IPL may offer benefit, in our experience, it's not as powerful as a laser when the spots are this size.  Many mistakenly believe that an IPL is a laser, and they are two different technologies with benefits and limitations different from the other.  When only addressing brown spots, there is no downtime other than dealing with crusting of the spots for 7 to 10 days.  However, if you are seeking overall skin rejuvenation for texture, collagen, and pigment, we have had excellent results with laser resurfacing using the Sciton MicroLaserPeel.  Results are dramatic and social downtime is approximately 7 to 14 days.  Non-laser options may offer some benefit, but they will never be able to compete with laser technology.  In addition, lasers utilize HEAT... a good thing when remodeling and stimulating new collagen for short-term and long-term benefits.
Although Retin A and Hydroquinone are good options, they generally are very limited when it comes to removing sun spots.
Be sure to choose a treatment plan that makes sense and that has before/after photos representing your skin condition.

The below link has B&A photos for brown spot removal with lasers.

Regards.

Phillip Chang, MD · Answer

Hi Fabulous227106

The MicroLaser Peel is an ablative laser that is used to remove a sheet of superficial epidermal skin which is then replaced with fresh skin with more youthful properties. For more information about this procedure, please visit our website.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

I'm a big fan of the Halo laser. It does an amazing job at improving the color, tone, texture and overall health of the skin. It also improves fine lines and wrinkles. Minimal downtime. You can wear makeup the next day.

Andrew Campbell, M.D.
Facial Rejuvenation Specialist
Quintessa

What type of laser facial would be best to improve my skin? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Micro Laser Peel

Answer: Micro Laser Peel

Answer: What Laser?

Answer: What Laser?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What type of laser facial would be best to improve my skin? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Micro Laser Peel

Answer: Micro Laser Peel

Answer: What Laser?

Answer: What Laser?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.