Laser Skin Resurfacing: Is Light Therapy Better Than Heat Therapy In Treating Facial Aging?

Laser skin resurfacing is used to help rid the skin of imperfections such as wrinkles, sun damage, melasma, and acne scarring. Recently, an article published by Medical News Today discussed research conducted by Susanne Dams, Research Scientist at Phillips Research Eindhoven. Dams studied the effects of heat in laser therapy to better understand how heat treatment compares to the skin resurfacing abilities laser light alone.

In her research, Dams targeted cell cultures with heat shocks of 45 ̊ and 60 ̊ C. Results showed an increase in collagen production; the protein that aids in skin rejuvenation. Collagen production decreases with age; causing skin to become looser and creating fine lines and wrinkles. Dams discovered that higher temperatures (that of 60 ̊ C) damaged skin cells causing cell necrosis, while 45 ̊ C temperatures produced the best results. While Dams research proved the effectiveness of heat therapy for skin rejuvenation, she said she still favors laser skin resurfacing therapy because it can treat more specific areas without damaging others.

While this information is interesting and helpful, Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center agrees with Dams and prefers the use of the CO2 Fractionated Laser for laser skin resurfacing. The CO2 Fractionated Laser works by creating tiny, column shaped wounds to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, brown spots, melasma, and acne scarring. The body naturally heals these wounds by increasing collagen production, elastin, and new skin cells. Our CO2 Fractionated Laser treats specific areas, so patients can treat problem areas like crow’s feet, mariotte lines (wrinkles around the mouth), and sagging jowls without damaging healthy areas of skin. An added benefit of this procedure is its ability to remove unwanted facial hair.

If you’re interested in to learn more about laser skin resurfacing or the other procedures offered at Laser Lights, visit our website or schedule a consultation. Also, keep reading our blog to learn more about laser procedures and cosmetic skin treatment news.