Facial lasers: what you need to know
You might have seen them on social media or in popular magazines as the “in” thing to get to help fade dark spots, fine lines and more on your face, but what exactly are facial lasers? Dr. Oyetewa Asempa, director of the Skin of Color Clinic at Baylor Medicine, discusses the different types of facial lasers, who is the best candidate and more.
Question: What do facial lasers do for your skin?
A: There are many different types of lasers that we use on the face and other parts of the body. Depending on the type of laser, they can smoothen the surface of the skin, stimulate collagen, reduce pigmentation, treat redness or remove unwanted hair. Think of it as a controlled way to create tiny injuries in the skin that promote healing, renewal and a more even, youthful look.
Q: Are there certain skin concerns lasers treat better than fillers?
A: Yes, lasers are excellent for issues related to skin texture, tone, pigmentation and vascular concerns, such as acne scars, sunspots, rosacea or fine lines and wrinkles. Fillers, on the other hand, are best for volume loss and contouring. So, if someone wants smoother skin or a more even tone, lasers are typically the better option. If they want fuller cheeks or lips or to soften deep folds, fillers are the go-to.
Q: Can you have laser treatment if you have acne? Rosacea? Melasma?
A: You can, but it depends on the type of laser and the condition of your skin at the time. For acne, certain lasers can reduce inflammation and oil production. For rosacea, vascular lasers can target redness and broken blood vessels effectively. Melasma can be tricky because heat can cause it to flare. This means some laser treatments will cause melasma to get worse, so we’re very cautious and choose gentler, pigment-safe options if we go that route.
Q: What should you consider before getting laser treatment done?
A: Your skin type and tone matter. Some lasers are safer than others for more melanin-rich skin. Certain devices like intense pulsed light devices (IPL, not technically a laser, just a light device) are NEVER safe for darker skin tones. Also, your current skincare routine, any recent sun exposure, medications or history of cold sores can affect safety and results. Always have a proper consultation so we can tailor the treatment to your needs and minimize risks.
Q: Are there certain ones for beginners?
A: Absolutely! Non-ablative lasers like Clear + Brilliant are great starter options. They involve minimal downtime, and you still see a noticeable glow and improvement in tone or texture. They’re like an entry-level refresh for your skin.
Q: What does the pre-appointment care look like? What about aftercare?
A: Before your appointment, we usually recommend stopping active ingredients like retinoids and exfoliants for a few days. Avoid sun exposure and self-tanners, and let us know if you’ve had a history of cold sores. We might pre-treat with antiviral meds.
Afterward, it’s all about keeping the skin hydrated, protected and calm. That means gentle cleansing, no exfoliation, heavy moisturizers and religious SPF. Some redness or flaking is normal, and we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect based on the treatment.
Q: How often should you get laser treatment done? Is it a one-and-done appointment or should you do multiple sessions?
A: It depends on your goals and the type of laser. Some require a series – like three to six sessions spaced a few weeks apart – for best results. Others, like fractional ablative lasers, can give a major result in one session but with more downtime. Maintenance sessions every few months or annually are common to keep results looking fresh.
Q: What about pain? Does it hurt?
A: Pain really varies by the laser. Some feel like tiny rubber band snaps; others are more intense. For most treatments, we use topical numbing cream to make it very manageable. Some patients say it’s uncomfortable but tolerable, like a quick sting. And we’re always adjusting based on your comfort.
Learn more about Baylor Medicine Dermatology.
By Anna Kiappes
