Laser treatments can significantly improve skin appearance, but rarely completely clear skin issues on their own. While lasers effectively target various skin concerns, they often work best in conjunction with other treatments.
How Lasers Improve Skin
Lasers are used in various skin treatments, including:
- Acne reduction: Studies show lasers can reduce acne breakouts, but seldom eliminate them completely. [Source: American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and multiple studies cited]
- Skin resurfacing: Laser skin resurfacing removes the outer skin layer (epidermis), improving the skin's texture and appearance. This is useful for reducing fine lines, age spots, and wrinkles. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, American Society of Plastic Surgeons]
- Lesion removal: Lasers can precisely remove various skin lesions, such as warts, moles, and sunspots. [Source: MedlinePlus]
Limitations of Laser Treatment Alone
While lasers offer improvements, they rarely provide a complete "clear" skin result. Most patients see improvement, but 100% clearance is uncommon. [Source: Multiple studies cited, including AAD]
Combined Treatments for Optimal Results
To achieve the best outcomes, dermatologists often recommend combining laser treatments with other methods such as topical medications. This approach addresses the underlying issues and complements the laser's effects. [Source: AAD]
For example, a patient with acne might use laser therapy alongside a topical retinoid or antibiotic cream for maximum benefit.
Types of Laser Treatments
Several laser types exist, each serving different purposes. Some examples include ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the outer skin layer while non-ablative lasers target deeper layers without significant surface removal. Examples of non-ablative lasers include Clear + Brilliant. [Source: Everyday Health, ASPS]
