Whitening face with laser, is it really effective?

Having a radiant face is everyone's dream. Not only women, many men have also looked at various methods that can lighten dull skin tones. One of the promising methods to whiten the face is through laser procedures. Come on, find out more about the procedure, benefits, and side effects in the following review.

What is skin whitening laser?

Dark skin is a common problem for both men and women living in the tropics. This is caused by the overproduction of melanin in the skin, the pigment that gives hair, eyes and skin its color. This excessive melanin production is what makes the skin look dull or darker. Well, these dark stains can be disguised through laser procedures.

Laser skin whitening is a procedure that uses certain energies to remove dead skin cells that inhibit the growth of new skin cells. Not only whitening the face, this procedure is also useful for treating various skin problems effectively, such as melasma, fine lines or wrinkles, acne scars, and dark spots on the face.

Laser face whitening procedure

There are two types of skin whitening lasers, namely ablative and non-ablative lasers. Both types of treatment provide effective results when performed with the right procedures. The difference lies in the energy used and the recovery time.

1. Laser ablative

An ablative laser is an invasive procedure that uses carbon dioxide or an erbium laser to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. Treatment with this method is suitable for patients with mild to moderate skin problems, such as wrinkles, acne scars, or dark spots due to sunlight.

Ablative laser treatment tends to be painful, so the patient will be anesthetized before the procedure begins. The recovery time is also classified as longer, usually taking one week to one month.

In addition, patients may be prescribed special medications or ointments to treat post-treatment swelling and infection. Therefore, laser ablatives should only be performed after the patient has received a surgeon's recommendation.

2. Non-ablative laser

A non-ablative laser is a non-invasive procedure that uses heat energy to treat a number of skin problems. Unlike ablative lasers, this type of treatment targets the lower layers of the skin to promote rapid growth of new collagen.

Since non-ablative lasers do not come into contact with the outer layer of the skin, they have a shorter recovery time than ablative lasers. Patients will recover immediately after one to two days after treatment, and do not even need special drugs or ointments such as ablative lasers.

Even so, this also depends on the patient's skin type. If the patient's skin problem is quite severe, the doctor may prescribe certain medications or creams to prevent infection and side effects. Patients are also advised to undertake further treatment to see significant results.

The advantage of the laser method for whitening faces

Laser procedures are one of the fastest treatments for whitening the face. The following are some of the benefits that can be obtained, including:

Whitens skin quickly and effectively

Laser skin treatments provide faster results than other skin treatments. This is especially true for laser ablative procedures which only take 1 to 2 days.

Provides maximum results on the skin

Apart from whitening the skin, laser procedures also help reduce dark spots, acne, and several other skin problems. The light energy used makes this procedure effective at destroying the cells that cause skin to darken.

Well, the success of the laser method makes your skin look healthier and fresher. Once skin problems are resolved properly, it's no wonder your confidence level increases.

Are there any side effects of laser skin whitening?

Just like other skin treatments, this laser procedure also has side effects that may occur, including:

Swelling, itching and redness. After the procedure, some patients experience itching, swelling, or redness of the skin. However, these symptoms usually fade quickly within a few days.
Burning sensation. This depends on the type of laser treatment being performed, usually subsiding quickly within a few days or after applying cold water.
Infections and dry skin. This is possible even though it is relatively rare. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics after treatment to prevent skin infections.
Changes in skin pigment. Laser procedures are not suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is imperative that you consult a skin and beauty specialist (dermatologist) before undergoing this treatment. If it is not suitable for your skin type, it can cause hyperpigmentation (blackened skin) or hypopigmentation (skin too light).
Sensitive to sunlight. Because laser treatment uses heat energy to destroy dead skin cells, it can cause sensitive skin. That is why it is recommended that you reduce sun exposure and use sunscreen to protect your skin after treatment.
Acne occurs. Acne is also a common side effect after laser treatment. This is caused by using the recommended ointment or cream after treatment.

In general, laser skin whitening procedures are safe when performed by a qualified surgeon or dermatologist. Before choosing this treatment, make sure to consult first to minimize the side effects that may occur on your skin type.