There are many different types of lasers used for cosmetic procedures, as well as many different types of devices that themselves are not lasers at all. True lasers use a parallel, organized (collimated) beam of a single wavelength (color) of light that is manipulated in various ways and applied to skin. Other energy-based devices may rely on a flashlamp (Intense Pulsed Light), radiofrequency, microwave, ultrasound, or other sources of energy. In terms of true lasers, the wavelength of the beam determines the specific target in the skin, and other factors, including the energy and speed of the beam, determine the depth and to what degree the beam heats the target tissue.

Lasers can be extremely damaging and should only be operated by trained, experienced professionals. States differ on who is legally allowed to operate a cosmetic laser, but just because a state law allows it does not mean everyone allowed knows how to choose treatments and perform them safely. Even people with lighter skin tones can be permanently burned and scarred by laser treatments, but people with darker skin tones are even more at risk. There are certain lasers that are on the safer side for darker skin tones, but even those should only be operated by the most experienced physicians.

Some lasers are relatively painless and can be used without any numbing or anesthesia beforehand. Many use either no built-in cooling or some with a cold contact or cold spray. Other laser treatments require an hour of numbing cream ahead of time. The strongest lasers require IV sedation along with infiltrated local anesthesia.

Most laser treatments do best when you have avoided sun exposure for at least 4 to 8 weeks beforehand. Other than that, it’s important to speak with your physician about any particular preparation for whichever procedure you will be having.

Yes, laser treatments can stimulate collagen production or improve skin elasticity.

Yes, laser treatments are often combined with other cosmetic procedures in an overall rejuvenation plan.

Laser treatments do always come with a high risk of leaving marks or scars, but properly selected lasers for your skin type should not leave any long term marks or scars. This is why careful selection of your laser physician matters.

Laser treatments can remove some acne marks very effectively, but other acne scarring is resistant and will require multiple different types of lasers as well as possible surgical treatments combined together.

Yes, vascular lasers target capillaries, broken blood vessels, and redness on the skin. But some general rejuvenating lasers help with redness as well.

Sometimes laser helps with acne and other skin conditions. Sometimes those conditions need to be medically improved before laser is a good idea to pursue.