Tuesday, October 28, 2008

LASER YOUR WAY TO BEAUTY

by Dr. Lisa Benest


Lasers are high-tech light and energy devices that can now do everything from smoothing wrinkles to reducing acne and sagging skin, all with minimal pain and outstanding results.

Cosmetic lasers have evolved to become one of the hottest modalities in the quest for smooth, younger-looking skin. They not only treat existing problems but they can also help prevent the onset or advancement of certain conditions, such as wrinkles, rosacea, sagging skin or cellulite.

The word “lasers” commonly refers to all cosmetic machines that use light energy and/or radio-frequency energy. Some work to tighten tissues, prompting collagen and elastin production (which helps improve wrinkled or sagging skin). Other lasers direct heat to break up pigment (which removes sunspots). Other lasers focus on the reduction of broken blood vessels or unwanted hair.

Laser Hair Removal is performed with non-invasive laser light, specifically designed to eliminate hair permanently from all parts of the body. Highly controlled flashes of laser beams are selectively absorbed by the hair follicles lying below the surface of the skin. The absorbed light stops hair growth without damaging the skin.

Anti-Wrinkle treatments, such as the Polaris and ReFirme laser systems, are revolutionary new technologies that offer a safe and effective solution for smoothing fine lines, deeper wrinkles and firming the skin. They use the ELOS system, which combines both laser and radiofrequency energy for a synergistic, collagen tightening effect.

Acne lasers are designed to treat both active acne as well as acne scarring. Unlike other therapies that address bacterial symptoms only, the Smoothbeam laser treatment targets the source of acne, overactive oil glands. In addition, the energy from the laser stimulates the skin to rebuild and replenish your own natural collagen and help smooth out the acne scars.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or Fotofacials use a bright light system to target a spectrum of skin changes. A series of these treatments addresses the brown spots and broken capillaries as well as the dullness of the skin. The result is a smoother, creamier glow to the skin so that foundation may not be needed anymore!

There are many laser systems that effectively treat facial spider veins with virtually no downtime. They also address cherry angiomas, those pesky little red spots that develop on various areas of the body.

No one laser can treat every problem and often a combination of lasers will give you optimal results. In looking for a laser center, it is best to find someone who uses these machines on a daily basis. Remember that a laser is a medical device, so it should always be administered in a doctor’s office, never by a salon or a spa aesthetician.


Dr. Lisa Benest is a general and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank, and offers extensive procedures in cosmetic skin care, using the latest and most up-to-date lasers and medical equipment. Visit us for a free consultation with our skin care specialist!

Dr. Benest can be reached at:
1624 W. Olive Ave #B
Burbank, CA 91506
818-729-9149
http://www.lisabenestmd.com/index.html

For permission to reprint this article in full or in part, contact info2006@lisabenestmd.com

No comments: