Laser facial cleansing: features, contraindications, results

Problem skin is a serious aesthetic drawback. Fortunately, modern cosmetology has methods that help cope with enlarged pores, scars and the consequences of acne, wrinkles, and relief disorders. One of the most effective methods is laser facial cleansing. Of the devices used for this procedure, the neodymium laser is highly effective and safe to use.

What is laser cleaning?

Unlike chemical procedures, the list of side effects and possible negative consequences of laser cleaning is minimal. It is painless when performed correctly and with high quality, non-traumatic, harmless to the body as a whole, and copes even with old cosmetic defects.

The essence of the cosmetic procedure is the effect of a laser beam on the epidermis, which is emitted by a special device. Under the influence of the beam, the upper layer of the epidermis evaporates, and the cells underneath begin to actively divide to fill the space. The cosmetologist acts on the upper layers of the epidermis, after which the skin becomes elastic and radiant, pigmentation is removed, scars and post-acne scars, and fine wrinkles become less noticeable. This cleaning is carried out under local anesthesia, but if you have a high pain threshold and your facial skin is not very sensitive, then you will not need painkillers.

Lasers have been successfully used in medicine for several decades. Laser therapy is indicated for furunculosis and hidradenitis, adenoids, psoriasis, and immunodeficiency conditions. Ultraviolet and infrared light produced by the device inhibits pathogenic microbes and fungi, improves blood circulation, and stimulates the immune system.

The laser cleaning device not only performs the function of polishing, it is also used for laser hair removal.

The most common devices include: American CO2 Ultrapulse, German Erbium laser MCL-30 Dermablate, German Erbium laser Dermablate Effect, Korean Fractional CO2 laser Mixel. The wavelength is usually 10600 nm.

Indications

In general, cosmetic procedures using special devices are recommended for everyone who wants to look more beautiful and younger. Let's consider the main indications separately:

for face:

acne;
post-acne;
peeling of the skin;
dark spots;
age-related changes;
wrinkles;
swelling;
deterioration in the appearance of the skin.

for body:

visible manifestations of cellulite;
there are fat deposits;
muscles and skin have lost their elasticity due to rapid weight loss;
the buttocks, stomach and chest lost their tone and elasticity, stretch marks appeared.

From the age of 25 we recommend using light rejuvenating procedures; after 35 years we use more intensive methods. However, age is only a conditional category. The doctor approaches the elimination of cosmetic imperfections and dermatological problems in a comprehensive manner, therefore, if necessary, he will prescribe a detailed diagnosis and issue a referral to a more specialized specialist - a dermatologist, gastroenterologist, endocrinologist.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of the procedure include:

slowing down the aging process of the epidermis;
smoothing skin texture;
narrowing of pores;
improvement of complexion.

Disadvantages of the method:

pricing policy, especially considering that laser cleaning needs to be done not just once, but in a course;
presence of contraindications;
pain and the need for local anesthesia in people with a low pain threshold and sensitive skin;
rehabilitation period, which can last up to 2 weeks.

Laser facial cleansing is called resurfacing, because after the laser the skin becomes smoother and more elastic, the relief is evened out.

Rehabilitation

There is no recovery required after a non-traumatic procedure. The face may turn pink and peel slightly - these are normal phenomena that disappear within a day. In general, the skin looks good, so you can return to your normal lifestyle immediately after peeling.

In the first days after exposure, you should take good care of yourself, avoiding the use of aggressive agents. It is better not to overuse decorative cosmetics. It is imperative to protect your face from the sun: even on cloudy days, it is advisable to use products with SPF. Finally, for the first time after peeling, you should avoid thermal procedures (visiting a bathhouse, sauna, taking hot baths), as well as swimming in a pool or open water.

After peeling, all kinds of masks are especially effective, including homemade ones. A cosmetologist will help you choose the right products.

After a course of peeling, the face becomes young, smooth, and radiant. Pigmentation disappears, the relief is evened out, and the greasy shine disappears.

The effect is noticeable immediately, then it increases from one session to another. In most cases, a short course is enough to get closer to the ideal - to make the skin soft, smooth, “porcelain-like.”

Indications and contraindications

Laser peeling is indicated in the following cases:

post-acne – dark spots, acne scars;
loss of skin elasticity;
black dots;
uneven relief of the epidermis;
small shallow wrinkles;
dark spots;
dull skin color;
freckles.

You should not go to a beauty salon for a laser resurfacing procedure when you have:

there are inflammatory elements on the skin, wounds and ulcers;
chronic diseases have worsened;
acne recurrence;
if the epidermis is prone to the formation of keloid scars;
hormonal imbalances;
epilepsy and other serious diseases of the central nervous system;
pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Laser resurfacing cannot be done in the summer, otherwise you risk developing pigmentation.

Effects of the procedure and indications

Laser cleaning allows you to get the following positive effects:

elimination of oily shine, narrowing of pores, regulation of sebum production;
imparting dullness to the skin;
restoration of normal pH levels;
elimination of inflammatory processes, effective fight against acne;
reducing the severity of pigmentation and lightening freckles: laser cleaning is quite often used as a procedure for pigment spots;
reducing the severity or eliminating scars (post-acne, scars after injuries);
effective removal of impurities, blackheads, keratinized particles;
increasing skin elasticity, smoothing skin texture, pronounced rejuvenating effect.

Using this method, you can prevent potential skin problems (for example, post-acne if you are prone to acne).

Indications for laser cleaning include enlarged pores, blackheads, acne, scars, pigmentation, and freckles. It will also help with the appearance of the first age-related changes - fine wrinkles, decreased skin elasticity.

Procedure

There are two types of laser resurfacing:

Deep, it is compared to second degree burns. The rehabilitation period lasts for two weeks, requires careful care and can cause serious side effects. A painful procedure that requires anesthesia.
Superficial. Only the upper layer of the epidermis is affected, the recovery period is easier and faster, but can only solve mild cosmetic problems.

If you decide to have laser facial cleansing, then you need to follow a few simple rules during the preparatory period:

do not visit the solarium and the beach two weeks before the procedure;
you cannot carry out other types of facial cleansing, steam the skin, make masks and scrubs;
You should not drink alcohol, attend workouts or go to the pool a few days before the procedure.

When you come to a beauty salon for laser facial cleansing, the master will first cleanse your skin and remove makeup. Hair is tucked under a bathing cap. The skin will be treated with an antiseptic solution and, if necessary, an anesthetic – gel with lidocaine. Special glasses are put on the eyes so as not to accidentally injure the eyes. Half an hour later, after the anesthetic has taken effect, the device will be adjusted to the desired frequency, calibration will be tried on a small area and they will begin to work on the face for 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of cleaning. In some beauty salons, before the procedure, a special mask is applied to the face and cling film is applied to maximally steam the skin and open the pores. The laser seems to “shoot” at your skin. Each such flash is accompanied by a loud bang and a burning smell. This does burn off some of the skin; there will be a smoke vent in the office next to your couch to eliminate this unpleasant odor. During deep laser resurfacing, people with sensitive skin and a low pain threshold will experience pain, especially in already burned areas. If the cheeks or the entire face are being treated, ice may be applied to the treated areas of the epidermis.

When all areas have been treated, anti-burn cream will be applied to the face. The skin will turn red and there will be a burning sensation and pain. It's better to get home by car. In order not to scare others with your flaming face, the salon will give you a gauze medical bandage and advise you to wear dark glasses.

Possible negative consequences of laser resurfacing include:

pigmentation;
exacerbation of acne;
edema;
skin infection;
severe psychological stress;
erythema.

The recovery period takes several days with proper care. It is better to stay at home for a week so as not to infect your skin, not use cosmetics and avoid exposure to the sun. On the first day you need the most thorough skin care, so laser resurfacing is best done in the morning. After the salon, the face should be treated with chlorhexidine wipes and smeared with Panthenol. You can take painkillers and antihistamines. The main thing is to be mentally prepared for the fact that ichor will periodically appear on the skin, and the face will burn and swell for the first day. On the second day it will become much easier. Constantly lubricate the skin with Panthenol and treat with chlorhexidine. If you did deep grinding, the recovery time is up to 8-9 days. Two to three days after the procedure, the redness will be replaced by brown crusts that will fall off. Underneath there will be new skin, smoother and more uniform.

During the recovery period, the following tools will be useful to you:

Panthenol or any good cream for burns (milk or foam Panthenol, Dexapanthenol, Bepanten-Plus);
antiseptic liquid for treating hands when caring for facial skin (everything must be sterile);
Methyluracil ointment (helps cope with crusts and acne that occur after frequent use of fatty Panthenol)
Saline solution, which can be used to wash your face a couple of days after the procedure;
Solcoseryl gel for healing.

Deep laser resurfacing of the face can be done no more often than once every 9 months. The interval between surface cleanings may not exceed 30 days.

The video shows a review of laser resurfacing by one of the popular beauty bloggers.

How is the procedure done?

Cleaning does not require special preparation; it can be performed at any time convenient for the patient. At the first stage, you need to cleanse the skin of makeup, then it is treated with an antiseptic composition. The patient puts on special protective glasses (this is necessary to prevent the laser from affecting the eyes), after which laser treatment of the skin begins - gradually, from zone to zone. A special carbon gel helps to increase the effectiveness of the procedure (it is applied to a prepared, cleansed face).

Laser exposure causes some discomfort, and some patients require the use of a special numbing cream. The length of the beam that the laser device spreads is adjustable; if there is obvious pain during the procedure, it should be reduced.

After cleansing is completed, soothing and moisturizing compounds are applied to the skin.

Photos before and after the procedure

Advantages of visiting the Miracle Doctor clinic

Doctors have more than 10 years of experience

Our employees are doctors of the highest category and candidates of medical sciences with experience.

Expert class equipment

The specialists of the medical cosmetology department have at their disposal the Ultraformer III device and other modern equipment.

A complex approach

To find out the real reasons for aesthetic imperfections, we will refer you to a specialist with a more specialized profile.

VIP level service

Make an appointment for a paid appointment with a cosmetologist at any time convenient for you. We work seven days a week.

We follow the achievements

We implement both global innovative technologies and our own proprietary programs. Our cosmetologists take part in all significant scientific seminars and conferences.

Urgent diagnostics

In our own laboratory you can undergo the express tests necessary to select the appropriate products.

Is it possible to do laser facial resurfacing during pregnancy and lactation?

Laser resurfacing is stressful. The laser itself does not have a negative effect on the fetus, however, during pregnancy a woman is vulnerable both physically and mentally. If in normal times it is known how the body will behave and react to the laser peeling procedure, then during pregnancy and lactation unexpected negative consequences may occur. Therefore, you should not take risks; postpone this cosmetic procedure when the baby is already born and will do without your breast.

Who is carbon peeling suitable for?

A distinctive feature of laser carbon peeling is its gentle effect. The procedure is indicated even for those who, due to increased sensitivity, cannot do mechanical or chemical peels. In addition, it can be carried out at any time of the year.

Main indications for this type of peeling:

Fading skin;
Dull complexion;
Enlarged pores;
Pigmentation;
Post-acne;
Oily sheen;
Comedones (without inflammation);
Uneven surface of the epidermis.

Carbon peeling can be used as preparation for other treatments. This procedure not only exfoliates the surface layer of the epidermis, but also makes the skin more susceptible to all kinds of influences. For example, masks after such laser cleansing will be most effective.

Advantages

Painless. The treatment is suitable even for sensitive skin - the effect of the laser is completely painless, except for a slight tingling sensation, as if washing with carbonated water;
Safety. The procedure is non-invasive, the skin is not damaged;
Solving several problems at once. Cleansing pores, lightening the skin, exfoliating the stratum corneum, regulating the sebaceous glands and generally improving the quality of the skin. Laser photothermolysis additionally stimulates regeneration and provides a rejuvenating effect;
Rapidity. The procedure takes about 30-60 minutes, a short course is enough. Typically, visible results are observed after five procedures with an interval of 5-7 days, but the number of sessions and the length of the intervals between them may vary depending on various factors (for example, the type and condition of the skin, the presence of defects);
Versatility. Suitable for any skin and any time of year. The procedure can be recommended to almost everyone. It is enough to take the course once a year to maintain the beauty and health of the skin;
Lack of special training and rehabilitation. A few hours after visiting the clinic, you can go on a date; post-procedure restrictions are minimal.

This is an excellent alternative to chemical peels, allowing you to quickly tidy up your face.

Carbon laser peeling is suitable for any age. To rejuvenate mature skin and correct age-related changes, it is recommended to combine the procedure with injections. Combinations of procedures for maximum effect are selected by the doctor individually.

Contraindications

Malignant neoplasms, including those not in the area of influence. Laser procedures are prohibited during radiation or chemotherapy. If there are benign tumors in the treatment area, peeling will also have to be abandoned;
Diabetes;
Pregnancy and lactation;
Allergy, individual intolerance to carbon gel;
Dermatological diseases, rashes, violations of the integrity of the epidermis, any inflammation in the treatment area;
Tendency to form keloid scars.

If there are contraindications, you should consult a cosmetologist. In some cases, you will have to abandon the procedure forever, sometimes you need to wait, and sometimes you can complete the course, having first received the go-ahead from the attending physician.

If you have any chronic diseases, it is advisable to inform the cosmetologist about them at a preliminary consultation. It would be a good idea to tell your doctor about the medications you are constantly taking.

Reviews of the use of laser facial cleansing

Before you praise or criticize any cosmetic procedure, you need to experience its effects on yourself. And before making such an important decision, you need to familiarize yourself with the experience of “experienced girlfriends”.

Tatyana, 42 years old, Moscow

“Laser treatment was the best solution for my skin. Mechanical cleaning gave results, but it was short-lived. Blackheads and pimples appeared again. And after laser cleaning, the skin became fresh, even wrinkles began to smooth out. So far there have been three sessions. The cosmetologist recommends doing 5. I will definitely do the whole course. Although a little expensive, it's worth it"

Svetlana, 35 years old, Surgut

“Girls, don’t try to be more cunning than your master. I liked the result so much after two sessions that I decided to speed up the process. My cosmetologist flatly refused to do the procedure three weeks after the previous one. She said that the skin has not yet fully recovered and needs to wait another two weeks. I went to another salon, I didn’t warn the technician about my previous “exploits.” As a result, I ended up with a bunch of problems, which took me a long time to get rid of. So listen to smart people and be beautiful."

Olga, 32 years old, Murmansk

“Contrary to all the fears and warnings of my friends, I went to have laser facial cleansing. I have enlarged pores, acne appears, and there are always blackheads on my nose and cheekbones. To be honest, I regretted it. Firstly, it is very scary and painful. Secondly, the face became red, dry and inflamed. Thirdly, all recommended products caused allergies. I had to see a doctor to correct the situation. As it turned out, I have contraindications for this procedure. So talk about all the little things before you expose your face to an incomprehensible device.”

Natalya, 38 years old, Ryazan

“Laser facial cleansing can be a good alternative to injection procedures at a certain age. I'm afraid of injections, especially since I have contraindications. This manipulation does not bring much discomfort, but requires careful aftercare.”

Victoria, 45 years old, Samara

“Regular laser cleaning gives results. I won’t lie, the post-workout is tedious, boring and lengthy. But beauty requires sacrifice. And I don’t recommend doing the procedure in the summer - the sun will give you a lot of age spots if you don’t apply a protective cream to your face at least once.”

Oksana, 40 years old, Tomsk

“After the second session I saw the effect. The face became fresher, the contours tightened, blackheads disappeared, and acne marks became less noticeable. The cosmetologist recommended a course of five procedures. I'll go through everything"

Irina, 29 years old, Kursk

“Although they say that laser cleaning is not recommended before age 30, I have a special case. Acne of the third degree left marks on the face. I cured what caused the disease. But the external defects remain. The dermatologist sent me to the salon for laser resurfacing. After just two months (2 procedures), improvements became noticeable.”

Alevtina, 34 years old, Tyumen

“I would not recommend this procedure to those who come to the salon for pleasure. The sensations are not pleasant, but tolerable. But if you want to restore your skin after acne, then don’t hesitate. A few uncomfortable minutes are worth a clean face.”

Elena, 31 years old, Omsk

“It’s painful, unpleasant, and there’s a possibility of getting an infection after the procedure. You need to look after it very carefully and observe a bunch of prohibitions. This procedure is not for me"

Valentina, 48 years old, St. Petersburg

“I started doing laser cleaning two years ago. Since then I have never regretted my decision. I forgot what facial defects are. There is no trace of age pigmentation like my friends have. The skin is fresh, tightened, clean"