Skincare

A Helpful Guide To Laser Skin Treatments

 

For those seeking an effective treatment to improve the look of aging, sagging, wrinkled skin or remove stubborn fat; laser skin treatments are worth a closer look. We’ve pulled together some of the most popular options below.

 
Thermage: A non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) treatment that gently heats skin deep in the dermis and stimulates the skin’s natural collagen. Theramage claims to help tighten, lift, smooth and contour skin on the face, neck, arms, thighs and abdomen. Thermage state their benefits include the smoothing of wrinkly or uneven skin, better definition of facial features around the eyes, jaw and neckline, and even the smoothing and toning of unsightly bulges, dimples and wrinkles on the face and body. It may be a good choice for those that want relatively quick results (often with the first treatment) and minimal recovery time. Average Cost: Cost varies. $1800 and up

 

Fraxel: As the original fractional laser treatment, Fraxel claims it’s an effective way to improve the look of dull, aging, sun-damaged, scarred and wrinkled skin. The Fraxel laser penetrates the skin layers to stimulate collagen and resurface the top skin layer. The skin’s natural rejuvenation process may lead to smoother, better looking skin. Imperfections like fine lines, wrinkles, scarring and age spots may have an improved appearance. Average Cost: Cost varies, common range $900 – $1400 (multiple treatments are common)

 

Clear + Brilliant: A laser treatment that addresses early signs of aging. Clear + Brilliant claims to help improve skin tone/texture, reduce scars/hyperpigmentation, pore size and fine lines. The laser burns microscopic holes in the upper layers of the skin which the body then starts to try to repair them, producing collagen. Average Cost: Cost varies. $500 per treatment (multiple treatments are common).

 

SculpSure: A non-invasive laser procedure used to target and reduce or eliminate fat in the upper and lower abdominal areas and flanks. The SculpSure heat laser raises the temperature in the fat, which in turn, claims to destroy fat cells and tighten skin. Then, over time, the damaged fat cells are naturally absorbed and removed from the body. Results are seen in 6 – 12 weeks. Average Cost: Cost varies, common range $1200 – $1800

 

Smartlipo: This minimally invasive, laser-assisted procedure may improve the appearance of targeted areas of the body including the abdomen, buttocks, thighs and neck by permanently eliminating fat. Using a small tube, the Smartlipo laser fiber is inserted in the body and ruptures the fat cell membranes and the fat cells are permanently destroyed. The liquefied fat is gently suctioned out. Because Smartlipo claims to tighten the skin through coagulation, they say you don’t have to worry about dimpling and sagging skin. Results may be seen between 3 – 4 months. Average Cost: Cost varies, common range $2000 – $6000

 

Facetite: A minimally-invasive contouring solution for the face and small areas of the body. According to Dr. Solomon’s Nasal and Facial Cosmetic Surgery Clinic based in Toronto, Canada, the procedure is done using a handheld device that emits a transdermal radio frequency that heats the skin from underneath the surface of the skin. The claim is that this method of treatment is more effective than non-surgical radio frequency treatments for skin tightening as it actually melts the fat while tightening the skin. Patients may require 3-5 days at home following their Facetite procedure. Average Cost: $5000 and up.

 

Fractora: Using advanced fractional radio frequency (RF), Fractora claims to provide anti-aging improvements for skin tone and texture. Gentle heat generated by Fractora pins promote collagen restructuring that may result in an overall improvement in skin appearance. Fractora is commonly used for treatment of wrinkles, scars and skin discoloration in areas like smile lines, cheeks, the mouth and neck. Average Cost: $1000 and up