Scars are not only a cosmetic defect, they can have a profound impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. The occurrence of scars can be attributed to a variety of causes, from acne, deep cuts and burns to surgery and trauma. While most scars do not pose a health threat, their appearance can be uncomfortable, especially if they are on the face or other exposed areas of the body.
Modern technology in the fields of device cosmetology and dermatology has opened up new options for those seeking to get rid of scars and restore the natural beauty of their skin. At Era Esthetic Clinic we offer one of the most effective solutions in laser dermatology – laser skin resurfacing using fractional laser CO2Re or Nordlys, developed in the USA by the world’s leading manufacturer of laser technologies. We also use VBeam Perfecta vascular laser in correction and removal of pink scars and scars.
How does laser scar removal work?
The classic way to remove scars on the face and body is fractional laser resurfacing. The device causes microdamage to the scar tissue in the form of multiple “pillars” that form at the site of penetration of laser beams. In response, regenerative mechanisms are activated, fibroblast cells begin to work intensively, and connective tissue fibers are synthesized. This restores the microstructure of the skin and improves its appearance.
Laser scar removal allows you to:
- completely remove minor defects, such as post-acne traces;
- smooth out the surface of large scars and reduce tissue tension;
- make scars soft, similar in color and texture to healthy skin;
- increase the firmness and elasticity of tissues.
At the Era Esthetic Laser Dermatology Clinic, the procedure is performed using premium-level equipment – a CO2Re laser device. Unlike other lasers, it acts locally and offers precise intensity control. This type of exposure reduces trauma, effectively stimulates regeneration and ensures a shorter recovery period.
The CO2Re laser has different programs: light, mid, deep, fusion, which differ in the depth of penetration of the rays. The doctor selects the necessary parameters individually for each patient in order to obtain a visible result without significant damage to the epidermis and dermis.
Indications and contraindications
Laser scar removal is performed at the request of the patient. The procedure is recommended for everyone who wants to get rid of unaesthetic marks on the body, regaining smooth and beautiful skin. Laser resurfacing effectively works with scars of any origin: post-inflammatory, burn, surgical, traumatic.
The technique is successfully used for normotrophic, hypertrophic, as well as keloid and atrophic scars, which are very visible on the skin and are difficult to remove by other methods.
The possibility of carrying out the procedure depends on the state of health of the patient. Laser resurfacing of scars has several contraindications:
- age up to 18 years;
- pregnancy;
- intense tan;
- herpes, pustular rash and other skin diseases in the affected area;
- acute infectious diseases, fever;
- decompensation of diabetes mellitus;
- period of exacerbation of any chronic diseases;
- oncopathology;
- autoimmune diseases.
For the doctors of the Era Esthetic clinic, the safety of the patient always comes first, so a consultation is mandatory before the procedure. It is necessary to exclude possible contraindications and select the optimal mode of operation of the laser.
How to prepare for the procedure
Laser resurfacing of scars does not require complicated preparation from the patient. However, before visiting a doctor, you need to consider several important nuances.
For 2 weeks, limit sunbathing and visits to the solarium, do not perform aggressive cosmetic procedures (peelings, mechanical cleanings). 3 days before the session, you should not take NSAIDs and other drugs that affect blood clotting. If the patient is taking medication as prescribed by the doctor on an ongoing basis, this should be disclosed to the dermatologist during the initial consultation.
How does laser scar removal work?
Grinding is carried out under local anesthesia to eliminate any discomfort. A local anesthetic cream is applied to the affected area. The patient must wear special goggles to protect the eyes from laser radiation.
Then the doctor starts the procedure. First, an applicator is applied to the skin to scan its condition and select the mode of operation. Next, the dermatologist adjusts the necessary settings and treats areas of skin with scars. Laser scar removal lasts about 10-20 minutes, depending on the number and size of the defects.
Results and rehabilitation after laser scar removal
Recovery after the procedure takes up to 10 days. A crust forms instead of the scar, under which regeneration processes take place. After it peels off, the intermediate results can be evaluated.
In order to avoid complications during the rehabilitation, the patient should properly take care of the skin and follow all the recommendations of the doctor. Basic Rules:
- exclude cosmetics for home care with active ingredients (retinol, acids, vitamin C);
- use sunscreen with SPF 30+;
- do not use scrubs and other mechanical agents on the planned manipulation site;
- do not apply decorative cosmetics until recovery if resurfacing was performed on the face;
- do not use the bath, sauna, solarium.
The effect of resurfacing is noticeable after the first procedure. Small defects practically disappear, and large scars are smoothed out and change color to a more natural one. It will take 3 to 5 sessions to completely remove scars.
In addition to laser scar removal, our clinic uses INFINI microneedle RF-lifting for skin resurfacing and scar treatment. Tissues are exposed to radio waves of controlled intensity and depth, which stimulate collagen synthesis and tissue restructuring.
To select the optimal method of scar removal and the required number of procedures, we recommend that you visit a dermatologist at the Era Esthetic clinic.