Lasers -- intense, narrow beams of light -- have many uses in the care and treatment of skin, from repairing sun damage to reducing wrinkles to increasing collagen.

The Erbium or Erbium YAG Laser
Because of the prolonged healing time associated with the CO2 laser, the Erbium laser was introduced as an alternative. This is a less penetrating technique that is suitable for milder wrinkling. Although it uses a cooler laser beam and is less painful than CO2 resurfacing, an Erbium treatment is not entirely painless. Some type of topical anesthesia or sedation is necessary. Since the Erbium laser is not as deep as the CO2 laser, healing is about fifty percent faster, and there is less redness and swelling. However, the Erbium laser lacks the skin tightening effect of the C02 laser and produces less collagen. There is also much less wrinkle repair.

Results with the Erbium laser vary, but the benefits approximate those of intermediate peels like trichloroacetic acid (TCA). The ability to control the effect is about the same with the Erbium and TCA. Both the Erbium and TCA stimulate new collagen growth, although a TCA peel heals much faster.

In terms of disadvantages, the Erbium laser uses much more expensive technology than peeling; therefore, a treatment is likely to cost more. A TCA peel can normally be done in less time than Erbium and does not necessarily require topical anesthesia. Post-treatment redness lasts longer with the Erbium than with a TCA peel, for the same level of result.

For mild wrinkles, there are several choices and the patient should be aware of all the risks and potential benefits. When the wrinkling is more advanced and the skin begins to lose elasticity, then Co2, with its longer healing time, is a far better choice. Rejuvenation of the skin surface is dramatic and new collagen production abundant.

PRE-SURGERY
Patient must have a proper cleansing routine appropriate for their skin. All steroid use must stop. Stop Retin-A two weeks before treatment and stop Accutane six months prior to treatment.

POST-SURGERY
Patient must take meticulous care of dressings. Stay out of the sun for five to seven days prior to treatment. Redness may persist for longer periods, but can be camouflaged with proper makeup.

Profect Laser
Fast and painless, the Profect laser is the first selective non-ablative laser approved by the FDA for wrinkle reduction and acne treatment. "Non-ablative" means that unlike most lasers, the Profect triggers a healing response in the skin without damaging the superficial layer. In addition to wrinkles and acne, the Profect laser targets fine lines, rosacea, facial capillaries, and acne scarring. When combined with microdermabrasion and Levulonic acid, the Profect laser is highly effective at correcting even the most bothersome skin conditions. The best results are achieved with a series of three treatments--three at minimum.   

PRE-TREATMENT
Depending on the condition of the skin, most people are advised to prep the skin with either a tretinoin or alpha hydroxy solution. It is important to avoid sun exposure before a Profect laser treatment.

POST-TREATMENT
The Profect laser makes the skin photosensitive, so it is of utmost importance to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for at least seventy-two hours post-treatment. Side effects, although rare, may include dryness, redness, and hypersensitivity to topical products that are normally well tolerated. Any side effect generally lasts no more than two to five days and can be relieved with topical cortisone cream.

Combination Therapy
After surgical skin resurfacing, the new complexion can be maintained with glycolic peels and Dermaster treatments, done as needed. Topical application of Neocutis and TNS Recovery Complex will aid in the skin's healing and prolong the effects of the laser treatments.

Photomodulation is one of the latest non-invasive technologies using pulsed light to reduce the hallmarks of photoaging, including fine lines and blotchy complexion, and promote collagen growth. Because GentleWaves LED doesn't use heat but rather non-laser Light Emiting Diodes, it is painless with no side effects. Each treatment takes less than a minute. For maximum effect, eight treatments, done once or twice a week, are required. LED is a perfect complement to any facial surgery and works for all skin types.  

Treatments That May Help
The following treatment links will take you to www.ajune.com
for more information:
Post-Treatment - Collagen Treatment
Other: Miracle Waves LED, Ultimate Ajune Glow, Total Bio-Energizer, Vitalize Peel, Glycolic Peels, Microdermabrasion, Dermaster, Profect Laser Therapy, Anti Aging Eye Treatment, Lymphatic Drainage Facial, Hydrating Facial

Products That May Help:
TNS Recovery Complex, Skinceuticals Physical Defense, Neocutis, Z.Bigatti's Restoration Lotions