Laser treatments are an innovative way to address a wide range of skin concerns, from pigmentation and blemishes to uneven texture and fine lines. Different types of laser skin treatments use advanced light technology to target specific areas, helping to stimulate natural processes like collagen production. With their precision and the ability to customise depth and intensity to suit individual preferences, they’re often recognised as viable non-surgical options for achieving specific skin goals.
With many options available, it’s important to understand how different laser technologies work and what they can achieve. In this guide, we’ll explore five advanced types of laser treatments for the face, their benefits, potential side effects and what to expect during recovery.
Five different types of skin laser treatments for facial enhancement
1. ClearSkin PRO Alma Laser
This advanced type of facial laser treatment targets acne and helps improve skin texture. Using a combination of non-ablative laser technology, vacuum and cooling systems, it penetrates deeply to help reduce sebum production, combat acne-causing bacteria and promote collagen growth. This treatment also helps clear clogged pores and reduce the appearance of acne scars over time.
- Common uses: Managing active acne, reducing pore size, improving skin texture and stimulating collagen production.
- Potential risks and side effects: Temporary redness, swelling or mild tenderness in the treated areas. Rare side effects may include prolonged redness or changes in pigmentation.
- Downtime: Most patients experience mild redness or swelling for 24–48 hours, though recovery can vary based on skin sensitivity.
2. CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
The CO2 laser is a well-known type of laser treatment often used to help improve skin texture and address concerns like wrinkles, blemishes, scarring, skin tags and pigmentation. This ablative procedure removes damaged layers of skin with precision while stimulating collagen production to promote long-term skin rejuvenation.
- Common uses: Treating deep wrinkles, advanced photoageing, acne scars, benign lesions and skin texture issues.
- Potential risks and side effects: Bleeding and swelling after treatment. Redness, peeling and sensitivity to sunlight in the first few days after. Rare but serious risks may include infection or delayed healing.
- Downtime: Significant downtime is expected, ranging from 7 to 14 days for peeling and redness to resolve.
3. ER: YAG iPixel Laser
The Erbium YAG iPixel laser is a fractional type of laser treatment for the face and body that provides a targeted yet less invasive approach to skin resurfacing. By delivering focused microbeams to the skin’s surface, it can help stimulate collagen production and promote cell turnover, which aids in improving skin tone, texture and superficial scarring.
- Common uses: Addressing fine lines, superficial scars and uneven skin tone.
- Potential risks and side effects: Mild redness, swelling and temporary skin dryness and flaking. Some pigmentation may occur in rare cases.
- Downtime: Redness and slight peeling may last 3 to 7 days, depending on the intensity of the treatment.
4. IPL Laser
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a versatile type of laser skin treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to target pigmentation, vascular lesions, uneven skin tone and fine lines. Unlike traditional lasers, IPL can treat larger areas with minimal disruption to the skin’s surface.
- Common uses: Treating pigmentation issues, rosacea, fine lines, wrinkles and skin redness as well as general skin rejuvenation.
- Potential risks and side effects: Temporary redness, sensitivity and mild swelling. Rare complications include blistering or scarring.
- Downtime: Minimal downtime — mild redness and sensitivity may last up to 48 hours.
5. ND: YAG Long Pulse Laser
The ND: YAG Long Pulse Laser uses neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (ND: YAG) technology to deliver controlled pulses of energy. This allows for deeper penetration into the skin, which is particularly effective for vascular concerns such as telangiectasias (spider veins) and for precise hair removal. It targets blood vessels or hair follicles while minimising the impact on surrounding tissues.
- Common uses: Treating vascular lesions, rosacea and unwanted hair on the face.
- Potential risks and side effects: Redness, swelling or minor bruising in the treated area. Rarely, blistering or hyperpigmentation may occur.
- Downtime: Minimal downtime, but sensitivity or redness may persist for one to 3 days.
What to know before getting any type of laser treatment
Laser treatments require a thorough consultation with a dermal clinician to check for suitability for each individual. During this process:
- A clinician will review your medical history, skin type and treatment goals.
- Potential risks, side effects and expected outcomes will be discussed in detail.
- If you are eligible for the treatment, you will receive detailed pre- and post-treatment instructions to prepare your skin and ensure the best possible results.
It’s essential to note that results vary between individuals due to differences in skin types, healing responses and treatment goals. Laser treatments are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and outcomes depend on several factors assessed during the consultation process.
If certain treatments aren’t suitable for you, your dermal clinician will guide you towards alternative options. While laser treatments can help soften signs of ageing and rejuvenate your skin, it’s important to remember they cannot completely reverse the natural ageing process.
Book your consultation for skin laser treatment at Advantage Skin Clinic
If you’re considering different types of skin laser treatments to address your specific concerns, our experienced team at Advantage Skin Clinic is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation or get in touch to find out which laser treatment is best suited for you.