ThermaScan laser treatments for acne and aging

When it comes to removing the signs of skin aging, an effective, fast and long-lasting treatment has been sought for a long time. Laser treatments have been used in the past with some moderate success. However, aftercare of the skin could be far-reaching and something not everyone was thrilled with. For acne treatments, lasers weren’t always a girl’s best friend, unless she could do something about the overproduction of oil that helped create breakouts in the first place. Now, with ThermaScan available, the skin’s surface is no longer the only place to effectively treat the skin.

How does it work

Typically performed as an outpatient treatment in a doctor’s office, ThermaScan laser treatment differs from the rest primarily in its software and guidance technology. The scanner this machine is equipped with is so detailed, capable of locating and mapping every sebaceous gland or collagen deposit under the skin, in order to better find and manipulate it. The skin surface is largely ignored with this laser treatment, as the laser does all of its work sub-epidermal. There is very little discomfort for the patient, just a slight warming or a mild static shock sensation, depending on your sensitivity. Most doctors will have a topical numbing cream available that can be used if needed.

Depending on the treatment, the cooled laser will be gently aimed and delivered to a collagen deposit or sebaceous gland, just under the skin. Targeting the sebaceous glands is known to severely limit oil production in the skin, helping to prevent further acne breakouts after completing the necessary treatments. Collagen deposits remain under the skin, long after the skin has reached the point where it no longer produces itself. The laser will activate the reservoir of dormant cells, reactivating the breakdown and creation of collagen, so you can fill in the fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars of the past. Each treatment is short, lasting no more than 15 to 30 minutes each.

Aftercare

Since there is less discomfort during today’s ThermaScan treatments, there are also fewer side effects, as was the case with other laser treatments in the past. There is less reddening of the skin, during and after the treatment, for example. If a patient has sensitive skin, topical treatments may be given to decrease the chances of their skin becoming irritated after treatment, as well as recommendations for protective measures, such as sunscreen. As with all laser treatments, patients should avoid direct sun exposure. The number of treatments each patient will require after the first will vary, depending on her particular skin condition, but most, like acne patients, typically average three to four.