Laser Technologies for Scar Removal
by Margaret in Laser Scar Removal
Many people don’t realize that there is actually a wide variety of technologies behind laser scar removal. These different lasers are continually being developed to expand their uses and make them more effective. Today’s lasers are much more precise, and offer a shorter recovery time, than those used just a few years ago.
Most lasers used for laser scar removal work by vaporizing the top layers of the skin. This results in a smoother appearance as younger and healthier skin is revealed. Other types of laser technologies used work by promoting the growth of collagen under the scar, which is useful for filling in indented scars from the inside.
The lasers employed during a laser scar removal procedure differ in the wavelength of light they produce. The wavelength affects how deeply the lasers penetrate the skin. Different wavelengths are more effective at treating different kinds of scars. Here are the most commonly used laser types:
- CO2 lasers are the lasers that were first used for laser scar removal. They are most effective on mild acne scarring. CO2 lasers work by removing one layer of the skin at a time until the scar is flat against the rest of the skin and healthy, smooth skin has been exposed.
- Erbium is also one of the first lasers successfully used for scar removal. It works in a similar way to CO2 lasers, by removing the outermost layers of the skin. This laser can be used on more skin types than CO2 lasers, and has a lower rate of complications.
- The Er:YAG laser system is relatively new, it is used to treat the edges of scars, as well as acne scarring. Considered more effective than earlier laser types, it causes less damage and can be used on people with darker skin tones. With Er:YAG lasers, most patients experience less swelling and a shorter recovery time.
- Pulse Dye Lasers (PDL) is a short-wavelength laser used to treat hypertrophic and keloid scars. It is effective against these reddish or pink scars because it is drawn to the hemoglobin in blood. PDL laser systems are also used in the treatment of stretch marks.
- Q-switched lasers are usually used for pigmented scars. They target the melanin in the skin, and are especially effective on people with darker skin.
As you can see, there are several different types of laser technologies used to treat scars. These different technologies are used under many brand names, so be sure you understand the type of laser technology being used to treat your scar. Your doctor will choose the right laser type for your skin type and the scar you are having removed.
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