Whether you’re curious about how laser treatments are used to treat skin problems or have specific questions about treatable dermatological conditions, our two subsections will guide you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
At a time when misinformation is on the rise in our society, particularly in social media, we feel it is important, as healthcare professionals, to provide you with accurate information and clarify the facts.
Myth 1: A single session of laser treatment is enough to treat a skin condition.
Fact: Most laser treatments require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. Skin conditions like rosacea, scars, pigmentation, and wrinkles often require a series of treatments for effective improvement.
Myth 2: Lasers can treat any skin condition.
Fact: Lasers are not a cure-all. They work well for hair removal, reducing wrinkles, treating sun damage, and targeting red vascular lesions (such as spider veins). However, they may not be effective to treat certain types of pigmentation disorders or deep scars. Always consult a dermatologist to determine if laser treatment is suitable for your specific condition.
Myth 3: Laser treatments are painless.
Fact: While some laser treatments are relatively painless, others can cause discomfort or a stinging sensation during the procedure. The level of discomfort depends on the type of laser and the area being treated. Topical numbing creams are often used to minimize pain.
Myth 4: Laser treatments have no side effects.
Fact: Like any medical procedure, laser treatments can have side effects. These can include redness, swelling, or even temporary changes in skin colour. In rare cases, improper use of lasers can cause burns or scarring. Choosing a specialized center is crucial to minimize these risks.
Myth 5: There is no difference between intense pulsed light (IPL) and laser.
Fact: IPL and laser are often confused, but they are not the same. Lasers emit a single wavelength of light that targets specific areas with precision, making them ideal for hair removal or treating skin issues related to pigmentation or red vascular lesions. IPL, on the other hand, emits a broad spectrum of light, which can treat a range of skin conditions but is generally less precise than lasers. The choice between IPL and laser treatment depends on the specific condition being treated.
Myth 6: Lasers can remove all types of tattoos.
Fact: Laser tattoo removal is effective for many tattoos, but not all colours are easy to remove. Black and dark blue tattoos respond well to laser treatment, while lighter colours like yellow or white can be more challenging. Multiple sessions are usually needed for complete removal.
Myth 7: Laser treatments provide instant results.
Fact: Visible results from laser treatments are not instantaneous. Skin usually needs time to heal, and the full effects of the treatment may only become apparent after several weeks or even months.
Myth 8: Lasers can completely remove stretch marks.
Fact: While lasers can improve the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating collagen production and reducing redness, they can’t make stretch marks disappear entirely. Treatment effectiveness varies according to the age and severity of the stretch marks.
Myth 9: Anyone can get laser treatment.
Fact: Laser treatments are not for everyone. People with certain skin types, conditions, or on specific medications may not be suitable candidates for laser treatment. A thorough assessment by a qualified dermatologist is recommended before proceeding with any treatment.
Myth 10: Laser treatments are unsafe.
Fact: When performed by a qualified and experienced user, laser treatments are generally safe. Modern lasers are designed to target specific skin issues without damaging surrounding tissue. However, safety largely depends on the user’s experience and professional training.
Myth 11: Facial redness is always due to visible blood vessels.
Fact: Facial redness is not always caused by visible blood vessels. Sometimes, it can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as lupus or a precancerous condition. When in doubt, it is essential to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis before considering any treatment. Misdiagnosis can lead to serious complications if the underlying cause is not properly identified and treated.
Myth 12: Laser treatments cause skin cancer.
Fact: There is no evidence that laser treatments cause skin cancer. In fact, some lasers are used to treat pre-cancerous lesions. However, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun after treatment, as it may be more sensitive to UV rays.
Myth 13: All pigmented lesions can be treated with lasers.
Fact: Not all pigmented lesions can be treated by laser. Some pigmented lesions, particularly those that are irregular in shape or have changed over a short period, run the risk of developing into deadly cancers such as melanoma. If this is the case, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist who can thoroughly assess the lesion and decide whether it is safe to proceed with treatment or whether additional investigation is necessary. Misdiagnosis or improper treatment of a potentially malignant lesion can have serious, even life-threatening consequences.
Are you wondering whether laser treatment, a popular and scientifically proven treatment for many skin conditions, is right for you? For clarity, we have prepared these frequently asked questions.
Question 1: Why can’t all skin conditions be treated with laser therapy?
Answer: Laser therapy works by targeting specific structures in the skin, such as pigments, blood vessels, or hair follicles. Since some skin conditions do not reach all these structures or do not respond well to laser energy, another treatment may be more appropriate. Some conditions may be too deep, too extensive or involve issues that lasers cannot treat effectively.
Question 2: Can laser treatment be used for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis?
Answer: No, laser treatment is generally not effective for conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. These are inflammatory skin conditions caused by immune system issues that lasers cannot target directly. Treatments like topical creams, medications, or light therapy (using different wavelengths than lasers) are usually more effective.
Question 3: Why is laser therapy not recommended for people with certain skin types?
Answer: Lasers target pigment in the skin, so people with darker skin are at higher risk of side effects like burns, discoloration, or scarring. This is because the laser may not easily distinguish between the pigment in the skin and that of the targeted area, leading to unintended damage. Consulting a laser specialist is crucial for making informed decisions about the preferred treatment.
Question 4: Can all scars be treated by laser therapy?
Answer: Not all scars can be treated by laser therapy. For example, very deep scars, certain types of keloid scars (which grow larger than the original wound), or scars that are very old may not respond well to laser treatment. Other methods, such as steroid injections, or silicone gels, might be needed instead.
Question 5: Why aren’t lasers used to treat skin infections or warts?
Answer: Skin infections and warts are caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi, which are not effectively targeted by laser. Lasers work on physical structures such as pigment or blood vessels, not on microorganisms. Antiviral, antibacterial, or antifungal treatments are required to treat these conditions.
Question 6: Can laser treatments help with melasma?
Answer: Melasma is a condition where dark patches appear on the skin, often due to hormonal changes or sun exposure. Laser treatments can sometimes aggravate melasma, as the heat from the laser can further stimulate pigment production. Instead, it is recommended to treat this condition with topical lightening agents and prescribed oral medications, which are often more effective.
Question 7: Why isn’t laser therapy enough to treat inflammatory rosacea?
Answer: Inflammatory rosacea causes redness, swelling, and pimples due to inflamed blood vessels and skin. While lasers can target the redness, the underlying inflammation needs to be controlled first with anti-inflammatory treatments like prescribed topical or oral medications. Using lasers without addressing the inflammation can exacerbate the condition.
Question 8: Can dermatofibroma be treated by laser?
Answer: Dermatofibromas are small, benign growths on the skin that are often firm and raised. Laser treatment is generally not effective because these growths are dense and deep within the skin. Surgical removal or simply leaving them alone is usually the best approach.
Question 9: Why can’t laser therapy treat deep cystic acne?
Answer: Deep cystic acne is caused by inflammation deep within the skin, far below where laser treatment can reach. Lasers are more effective for surface-level issues, not deep inflammation. Oral medications like antibiotics or isotretinoin are typically required to treat cystic acne.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4pm
3333, 100e Avenue #200
Laval (Québec) H7T 0G3, Canada
To book an appointment:
450 686-4744
Toll-free: 1-888-833-1303
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4pm
3333, 100e Avenue #200
Laval (Québec) H7T 0G3, Canada
To book an appointment:
450 686-4744
Toll-free: 1-888-833-1303