Laser treatments are everywhere. Should I do it?

Laser facial treatments have gained tremendous popularity in recent years due to their remarkable ability to effectively address a wide array of skin concerns. Some kinds of lasers are marketed as safe and with no down time but after first hand experiences and listening to many first hand stories, we find it is crucial to approach these procedures with a keen sense of caution and prudence.

While these treatments can yield remarkable results when administered by highly skilled and trained professionals in controlled environments, there may be certain situations where it becomes necessary to err on the side of caution or even avoid laser treatments altogether. Above all else, prioritizing safety and fully comprehending the potential risks associated with such procedures is of utmost importance.

By doing so, you can confidently navigate your skincare journey, armed with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions and never be pressurised into making decisions. Therefore, it is vital to keep the following considerations in mind before embarking on laser facial treatments.

1. Pregnancy and Nursing: If you are pregnant or nursing, it is generally recommended to avoid laser facial treatments. Although there is limited research on the effects of lasers during pregnancy, it's better to err on the side of caution, as the potential risks to both the mother and the baby are not well understood. Lasers could potentially worsen pigmentation problems during pregnancy or post pregnancy too.

2. Photosensitivity and Medications: Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to light, increasing the risk of adverse reactions to laser treatments. It's essential to disclose any medications you are taking, including topical creams, antibiotics, or even birth control pills, to your laser specialist. They can guide you on whether laser facial treatments are suitable for you or if alternative approaches should be considered.

3. Active Skin Infections or Inflammation: It is crucial to allow the skin to heal before undergoing laser facial treatments. If you have active skin infections, such as cold sores, rashes, or open wounds, it is advisable to postpone laser treatments until the affected areas have fully healed. Treating the skin while it is inflamed or infected can exacerbate these conditions or lead to potential complications.

4. History of Abnormal Scarring or Keloids: People who have a history of abnormal scarring or keloids (raised scars) should proceed with caution when considering laser facial treatments. The heat generated by laser devices can potentially stimulate excessive collagen production, leading to the formation of new scars or keloids. Consultation with a dermatologist or laser specialist experienced in treating such conditions is recommended to assess individual risk factors.

5. Skin Type Considerations: Laser facial treatments are typically safe for most skin types but may carry a higher risk for individuals with darker skin tones. Certain lasers can cause pigmentation changes or even burns in people with more melanin in their skin. It is crucial to consult with a skilled professional who has experience working with your specific skin type and can select the appropriate laser device and settings to minimize these risks.

6. Sun Exposure: You will need to take a lot of care with regards to limiting sun exposure for a long time even after the laser treatment. This could greatly affect some people’s lifestyle and quality of life as a result. It is contradictory that a laser treatment to lighten pigmentation could in turn cause even more pigmentation to come up.

7. Cost of laser treatments: Laser treatments can be expensive and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. You will need to consider the long term commitment needed to the treatment plan both financially and time wise, not to mention the mindset to follow through with it even when results may not be optimal. We feel that consistent limiting your exposure to the sun by being covered either with clothing/ cap/ umbrella and using good sunblock on exposed parts of your skin as well as a good night time skin care routine to prevent pigmentation would be more preferable to laser treatments.

8. Laser treatments have temporary results: While laser treatments can provide significant improvements in skin quality and appearance, they may not offer permanent results. Maintenance treatments might be necessary to sustain the benefits.