How to Use Lasers to Reverse Sun Damage

The sun is terribly damaging to the skin. It doesn't even take a ridiculous amount of sun exposure for the sun to do serious damage. Even incidental sun exposure can result in sun spots and wrinkles. Thankfully, there are new treatment options which can literally reverse sun damage to the skin. Laser treatments can help remove damaged skin and encourage new skin growth which results in younger, smoother and fresher skin.

Things You'll Need

• Dermatologist
• Laser treatments
• Sunscreen
• Sun protective clothing

Instructions

1. Consult your dermatologist regarding laser treatments. Your doctor will be able to assess your particular skin and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Be aware that most people require a series of laser treatments to see significant improvement in their skin's appearance.

2. Be prepared. Laser treatments involve a carbon dioxide laser targeting the top layers of skin. These top layers are effectively removed, revealing younger-looking, less damaged skin below. Know that laser treatments can be painful as the top layers of your skin are being removed. Your skin will appear red, irritated and swollen if you receive deep laser treatments. It's wise to get treatments during a time when you don't have to make public appearances for a few days. This will allow your skin a chance to recover.

3. Assess the strength of treatments you would like to receive. Light laser treatments are available that are very gentle, only treating the superficial skin. These gentle treatments are less painful. Most people experience little to no discomfort during treatments and skin is not irritated following the procedure. In fact, these treatments are so gentle that you can return to life as normal directly following a treatment. If your sun damage is light, this strength is a viable option. If you have more severe sun damage, deep laser treatments will provide more satisfactory results. Expect pain during deep treatments and irritated skin following the sessions.

4. Commit to a series of laser treatments. While some people achieve their desired results after just one laser treatment, most people require a series of sessions. Be aware that laser treatments are expensive and generally not covered by health insurance. Consider your finances prior to committing to a series of treatments.

5. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding preparing for your laser treatment sessions. He will likely give you a variety of different creams to use in the weeks preceding your session. Retin-A creams are often recommended as well as fading creams. These help to even out your skin tone prior to treatments so the laser does not target different pigmentations in your skin.

6. Be gentle on your skin following your treatments. Your skin will be sensitive so it's imperative that you do not aggravate it in any way. Know that deep treatments are essentially burning your skin so the wounded area may ooze or weep a bit. Keep the area clean and follow your doctor's instructions regarding aftercare. It's best to carve time out of your schedule so you can remain indoors and makeup-free for at least one week following your laser treatment. Discuss pain management medication with your doctor prior to your session.

7. Stay out of the sun. It's essential that you keep your skin protected from the sun's damaging rays after treatment. Your skin will be more vulnerable to sun damage so wear a broad-rimmed hat and broad spectrum sunscreen every time you are outdoors. You also want to protect your skin from future sun damage as the sun can reverse the positive effects of your laser treatments.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink lots of water after treatments. Your skin will be burned so you want to hydrate yourself from the inside.

• Avoid touching your burned skin after your treatment. The area will heal more rapidly if it is not irritated.