Hi everyone, Monday I went in and got lasered for my acne scarring. I also had a chemical peel done. It really wasn't bad at all. The laser was strange, it was like a puff of cold air and then a zap. It only took about 10 minutes. I didn't get any anesthesia like the article below says some people get...it really wasn't near bad enough for that! The dermatologist told me when I first asked him about laser, that it usually takes at least 2-3 times before people are satisfied with their results. I can already see a difference although I see I still have a lot to go. I just had it done monday though so there may still be some redness there from the laser. THe peel was AWSOME! I loved the peel! It just burned a little but I've used masks that burn more than that! lol! The nurse was telling me that they give them to each other all the time and that I will want to keep getting them. THey control acne quite well according to her. I told her she had perfect skin and she said "Girl, it wasn't always like this!" They laser each other and get peels and stuff all the time apparently. I was like "Were do I apply!?" Anyway, here are two things I copied that show what I had done. I go back in three weeks for another treatment. For the two things, it was $125. The laser was $100 and the peel was $25. I'll let you know how it goes after the next treatment too.
Non-ablative lasers trigger changes within the dermis without injuring the epidermis. They are the “lunchtime” form of laser therapy. Smoothbeam is the newest FDA approved laser for this treatment. Smoothbeam targets and heats the sebaceous gland, helping reduce sebum and acne formation. Heating the collagen helps tighten the dermis, resulting in less visible scarring.
A topical anesthetic like
LMX 4% Topical Anesthetic Cream - 30gm is applied about an hour before the procedure. The surface of the skin is cooled to prevent the laser from damaging the epidermis. A patient will feel both the cold spray as well as some amount of stinging and heat during the session. The application of a topical anesthetic an hour before the procedure makes this tolerable. The procedure takes about an hour. Typically 3 sessions a month apart are performed.
Beta Lift Peel - Removing the dead cells from your skin, the beta lift peel stimulates reproduction of the cells below the surface. The result, reduction of superficial lines, uneven pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores.
Hope this helps someone!