Laser Treatments in Palm Beach Gardens & Stuart, FL

What are Laser Treatments?

Laser treatments are among the most effective and versatile treatments available when it comes to cosmetic dermatology. The reason for this is that laser treatments exfoliate damaged skin from the surface while simultaneously stimulating the growth and rejuvenation of healthy skin beneath the surface. Furthermore, laser treatments are highly customizable, so patients with wide ranges of skin types and cosmetic concerns can benefit from them. At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we may recommend laser treatments for:

• Anti-aging
• Sun damage
• Skin conditions
• Skin discoloration
• Acne and acne scars
• Tattoo removal
• And more!

What are the Benefits of Laser Treatments?

Laser treatments offer a range of benefits due to their versatility, making them a great fit for many different types of patients. Benefits of laser treatments include:

• Skin rejuvenation
• Natural collagen stimulation
• Non-invasive treatment
• Improved skin tone and texture

What Types of Laser Treatments are Available?

At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we offer a variety of laser treatments thanks to our collection of advanced laser devices and systems. The types of lasers we use will vary depending on the treatment being performed, but may include:

Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)

The Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) is a type of laser that emits a concentrated beam of yellow light. It is selectively absorbed by blood vessels and pigmented cells, which means that PDL is primarily used for treating vascular conditions, such as port wine stains, rosacea, spider veins, and certain types of birthmarks. The laser energy is absorbed by the blood vessels, leading to their targeted destruction or coagulation, while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. PDL treatments are generally well-tolerated, and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

Nd:YAG Laser

The Nd:YAG laser is a versatile laser that emits a longer wavelength of light that penetrates deeper into the skin, making it suitable for many types of treatments. Nd:YAG lasers are commonly used for hair removal, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular conditions such as leg veins and hemangiomas. The laser energy is absorbed by the target, whether it is melanin in hair follicles or ink particles in tattoos, causing their fragmentation or destruction. Nd:YAG lasers can be adjusted to different wavelengths, allowing for customized treatment based on the specific condition being addressed.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a broad-spectrum light therapy used for various cosmetic treatments. Unlike lasers that emit a single wavelength, IPL devices emit a range of wavelengths that can be adjusted to target specific skin concerns. IPL treatments are commonly used for photorejuvenation, treating sun damage, improving skin texture and tone, reducing pigmentation irregularities, and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The energy from the IPL device is absorbed by melanin or hemoglobin, depending on the target, resulting in the breakdown of pigment or coagulation of blood vessels. IPL treatments are non-invasive and can be tailored to individual skin types and concerns, making it a popular choice for skin rejuvenation. However, multiple sessions are often required for optimal outcomes.

How Much Do Laser Treatments Cost?

The cost of laser treatments at Florida Dermatology Specialists can vary depending on the extent of treatment needed to produce your desired results. As a cosmetic treatment, laser treatments are typically not covered by health insurance. This means you will be responsible for the full cost of your treatment. During your initial consultation, we will develop a personalized treatment plan and provide the exact costs associated with your treatment.

What are Laser Treatments Like?

The laser treatment performed can vary depending on a patient’s skin type and skincare needs. Generally, these treatments begin with cleansing the skin, and for some treatments, applying a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort during treatment. As treatment begins, a handheld device is used to distribute laser energy to the appropriate treatment areas. This process is typically well-tolerated, but patients can expect a mild warm or stinging sensation in the skin. The length of treatment will depend on the size of the treatment area, but treatment is often completed in under thirty minutes.

Is There Any Downtime After Laser Treatments?

Laser treatments will leave the skin sensitive and vulnerable, so it’s important to take extra care protecting the skin in the weeks following treatment. Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen and abstain from aggressive skincare products that may irritate the skin. Patients who receive deeper laser treatments may also need to avoid strenuous exercise and bathing in hot water for a few days. Depending on the depth of treatment, full recovery can take between a few weeks and a few months.  Some bruising, swelling, or crusting at the skin surface may occur, depending on the type of laser treatment performed.

What Results Can I Expect from Laser Treatments?

Results from laser treatments develop gradually in the following months. Early results will become noticeable after side effects fade, revealing brighter, healthier skin on the surface. Beneath the surface, the stimulation of collagen production will produce results on a longer time horizon. In the months following treatment, increased collagen will strengthen the skin to produce tighter, fuller and more youthful skin. However, patients may need multiple treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. During your consultation, Dr. Krathen will let you know how many treatments you can expect based on your cosmetic goals.

To learn more about laser treatments and determine if you could benefit from them, contact us today to schedule your consultation at Florida Dermatology Specialists. With offices in Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart, we proudly serve the residents of North Palm Beach, Lake Park, Hobe Sound and the surrounding areas of Florida.