Which lasers are the best at treating each problem?

Question

Hello, Can someone please lost some of the most effective lasers for treating each problem? Which laser is best for pigment? Which laser is best for pores? Which laser is best for crepey skin? Which laser is best for texture? Which laser is best for sunspots, melasma and redness? Which laser is best for tightening? Which laser is best for plumping?

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.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. 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

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Here are some of the most effective lasers for treating various skin concerns:

Pigment: The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and the PicoSure laser are often used for treating pigmentation issues. They can effectively target and break down melanin in the skin.

Pores: The Fraxel laser, a type of fractional laser, is commonly used to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of large pores by promoting collagen production.

Crepey Skin: The CO2 laser and the Erbium laser are effective for treating crepey skin. These lasers resurface the skin and stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and texture.

Texture: Fractional CO2 lasers and Fraxel lasers can help improve overall skin texture by promoting collagen growth and resurfacing the skin.

Sunspots, Melasma, and Redness: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is often recommended for treating sunspots and redness. For melasma, the PicoSure laser or Q-switched Nd:YAG laser can be effective, as they target pigmentation without causing excessive heat, which can worsen melasma.

Tightening: Radiofrequency lasers, such as Thermage, and the Nd:YAG laser can help tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production.

Plumping: While lasers primarily focus on resurfacing and tightening, treatments like fractional lasers can indirectly plump the skin by boosting collagen production. However, for more direct plumping, dermal fillers are typically used in conjunction with laser treatments.

It's important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or laser specialist to determine the best treatment for your specific skin concerns and type. Individual results can vary based on skin type, condition, and the specific technology used.

Which lasers are the best at treating each problem?

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Which lasers are the best at treating each problem?

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