Difference between Aesthetic Lasers and Cosmetic Lasers

Difference between Aesthetic Lasers and Cosmetic Lasers

Lasers are some of today’s modern approaches to skin rejuvenation. Throughout the years, developments and innovations have contributed to this technology’s fast-paced growth. There are two (2) known common uses of lasers in the cosmetic scene – for aesthetic and cosmetic purposes.

         Today, let us know more about laser treatments in general, how aesthetic and cosmetic lasers differ, and if they also have similarities beyond their intended purpose. Read until the end and discover if lasers can help you with your skin concerns.

 What are Laser Treatments?

This energy, i.e., light, is used in rejuvenating the skin with lasers. This light energy targets skin cells that are damaged skin cells, simultaneously preserving healthy ones. Aside from protecting healthy skin cells, laser skin procedures also stimulate collagen growth. This treatment results in an improvement in tone and texture and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Depending on your specific needs, skin clinics and med spas use laser treatments for different reasons. They will take care of you from head to toe!

These laser treatments are known to be safe for all skin types. This treatment is considered a long-term solution and is not a quick fix. These treatments take more time to see the results than other skin treatment options, but they are worth the wait.

         In general, laser treatments can help improve:

  • Acne scars
  • Birthmarks
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Skin tone and texture
  • Spider veins
  • Sun-damaged skin
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Unwanted hair
  • Unwanted tattoos

 Head to head – Aesthetic vs. Cosmetic Lasers

Although two (2) different terms, aesthetic and cosmetic lasers are often interchangeably misused when referring to the types of treatments practices and med spas offer. Still, these lasers could not be more different. Although the root words “cosmetic” and “aesthetic” both refer to an individual’s external physical appearance, it is essential to distinguish between them when referring to any laser device.

Cosmetic laser devices can certainly possess attractive characteristics — they are more convenient, significantly cheaper, and less likely to result in uncomfortable side effects. But remember that they are not and will never be medically-approved devices.

Aesthetic lasers, on the other hand, can come with the knowledge they have been vetted by a federal agency and are being used in the hands of a trained professional. Cosmetic laser devices fail to compare to an aesthetic laser system’s consistency, effectiveness, and safety.

The cosmetic industry allows consumers down time and time again with the inconsistency in terminology, leaving laypeople confused and susceptible to gimmick products, not to mention leaving potential clients on the table for your med spa, practice, or clinic. Choosing an aesthetic laser over a cosmetic laser gives both patient and provider confidence in a safe and effective treatment.

 The Mistake, Your Patients, Can’t Afford to Make

Any DIY cosmetic laser devices are essentially the beauty market’s attempt at “over-the-counter” options for professional dermatology services. There are many products dubbed cosmetic lasers that are not actual but use less-potent, pulsed light technology. Despite cosmetic laser devices being significantly less potent than laser systems used professionally, even the most seemingly harmless products can present an extreme risk to the layperson.

There are also at-home ‘lasers’ on the market that are typically light-based devices that do not have the power of laser devices available for in-office procedures. However, experts believe that proper laser technology is unavailable for home use.

Furthermore, laser deceives designed for personal use are manufactured just like any other consumer product and do not have to adhere to medical device regulations. This fact means DIY lasers are less accurate. Moreover, these lasers are less consistent, with the power of every pulse varying significantly. They can result literally in spotty results or, in extreme instances, permanent injuries. Patients are often attracted to at-home treatments for the apparent cost savings, ease of use, and privacy of a tight space. However, there is no convenience worth risking a patient’s safety.

Common Laser Treatments

C02 COOLPEEL LASER

C02 CoolPeel laser treatments are the gold standard in treating wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other blemishes. At the same time, it tightens the skin and balances skin tone. All damaged skin tissues are removed or ablated, stimulating new collagen production. In addition, the heat energy gets delivered to tighten the skin. The C02 CoolPeel Laser helps bring all of these effects with minimal to no downtime. As a recommended laser treatment, it must be done in three (3) treatments to achieve the best results.

Laser Genesis

This treatment is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It helps reduce redness, improves scarring, and targets fine lines and wrinkles. This targeted light therapy stimulates new collagen development, filling out problem spots and reducing the appearance of various blemishes on the skin. In less than an hour’s treatment, it will polish the complexion, the treatment will tighten pores, and it will reduce fine lines. A series of six (6) treatments are usually recommended for optimal results.

 Laser Scar Revision

The C02 Laser effectively treats many scars while improving skin texture and pigment. Expect effective resurfacing of new skin within 6-10 weeks after your treatment, with some noticeable differences manifesting immediately after your revision.

 Laser Toenail Fungus

         This laser therapy penetrates both toenails and soft tissues to not only immediately kill the hard-to-get fungus but also help promote the growth of new and healthy nails. You can expect complete healing within 6-9 months.

 Laser Vein Treatments

This laser treatment targets spider veins but leaves skin undamaged. These small spider veins may disappear immediately after the treatment, and giant spider veins will darken and disappear after a few months.

 Vaginal Rejuvenation

With the help of the C02 Laser, this treatment tightens the inner and outer muscles and vaginal structure for enhanced muscle tone, strength, and control. In addition, vaginal rejuvenation is used to treat scar tissue surrounding the vagina, the “popping” sound during exercise, problems passing bowel movements, and to improve sex life.

 Frequently Asked Questions

“Is there any downtime I should expect from laser treatments?”

Based on the intensity of the treatment, it generally takes 3-7 days for your skin to renew. You can return to your routine if you take special care to protect your treated skin from the sun.

 “When will I start seeing results?”

You can expect to see results within the first week and will continue to see improvement for up to three (3) months after your treatment. The Plasma Pen is a known laser procedure that stimulates long-lasting elastin and collagen regeneration.

 Final Thoughts on Lasers

         Whether aesthetic or cosmetic, laser treatments have already made a mark regarding skin rejuvenation. Contact skin experts like your doctor or healthcare provider and see if laser treatments are for you to discover.

 Are you into laser treatments? Our awesome friends at Pam Chaney Aesthetics can help you today. Visit them now!