Laser treatments have come a long way since their inception. A very long way. They started as the stuff of science fiction. Today, they are some of the most advanced tools in the world of skincare. A big change. This journey began in the early 1960s when Theodore Maiman developed the first ruby laser for medical use. In those early years, lasers’ main use was to treat conditions like pigmented lesions and eye issues. By the 1980s, however, advancements in laser technology made it possible to use them more precisely. This is when dermatologists started using lasers for skin treatments, with scar reduction and wrinkle smoothing, popular to begin with.
The 1990s marked the rise of fractional lasers, an evolution in the technology that enabled the treatment of more skin issues with even less downtime. Dermatologists Rox Anderson and John Parrish’s concept of selective photothermolysis transformed how lasers interacted with the skin. They could now target specific areas without damaging surrounding tissues.
Even more recent advancements have made lasers safer, less invasive, and more effective for a wider range of skin tones and conditions. This is what places lasers at the top tier of aesthetic treatments today.
1 – CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Highly effective for those struggling with deep wrinkles, severe acne scars, or skin laxity. The CO2 laser works by emitting energy that vaporises the outer layers of the skin, effectively resurfacing it. This process also stimulates collagen production once the healing phase is over. However, due to the intensity of the treatment, it comes with significant downtime, often a couple of weeks to allow the skin to recover fully.
This treatment is ideal for individuals with more severe skin issues looking for dramatic results, and it’s commonly used for mature skin needing a more aggressive approach. The healing process can be uncomfortable. And that is not good. The results, however, are often worth the wait, with visible improvements in skin tone, texture, and elasticity. Not for the faint hearted.
2 – Fractional Laser Resurfacing (Fraxel)
Fractional lasers, such as Fraxel, are an excellent option for those looking for noticeable results but who want a less invasive approach. Fractional lasers work by targeting fractions of the skin at a time, treating thousands of microscopic zones while leaving other parts untouched. This pattern helps promote quick healing.
Fraxel is well-suited for treating fine lines, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and even old acne scars. Unlike traditional lasers, which can require weeks of recovery, fractional lasers offer a much shorter downtime—usually only a few days. The balance between effective results and manageable recovery time makes Fraxel one of the most popular laser treatments for individuals who want to improve their skin texture without the significant commitment that more aggressive lasers require. A smart laser.
3 – IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
A bit different from typical laser treatments, IPL appears here because it uses broad-spectrum light to address various skin issues. IPL is very effective for redness, rosacea, sunspots, age spots, and broken capillaries. Unlike CO2 or Fraxel lasers, IPL has minimal downtime, with most patients only experiencing some mild redness after treatment.
What makes IPL stand out is its ability to target multiple skin issues in one go. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to improve skin texture and tone without extensive recovery. This makes it instantly popular for those who want to maintain an active social calendar. This treatment also helps boost collagen, adding a subtle anti-ageing effect. Despite its lower level of sophistication, IPL remains one of the most popular treatments of its kind.
4 – Nd:YAG Laser
The Nd (neodymium-doped) laser, sometimes referred to as Nd:YAG laser, is known for its versatility and is effective in treating vascular lesions such as spider veins as well as for skin tightening. The Nd laser penetrates deeply into the skin, which allows it to address conditions that occur beneath the skin’s surface. This makes it an effective solution not only for facial veins but also for unwanted hair removal, particularly for darker skin types that can be more challenging to treat with other lasers.
One of the biggest advantages of the Nd laser is its ability to safely treat darker skin tones. Many other lasers target pigmentation, which can put people with deeper skin tones at risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring. The Nd:YAG’s longer wavelength allows it to bypass melanin in the skin and treat deeper structures, making it one of the safer options for those with darker complexions. This treatment also requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. Hair removal and vascular conditions usually would require multiple sessions.
5 – PicoSure Laser
The PicoSure laser is one of the latest advancements in aesthetic laser treatments. Known for its rapid bursts of energy in picoseconds, PicoSure is highly effective for pigmentation issues such as sunspots, freckles, and even tattoo removal. Unlike other lasers that use heat, PicoSure relies on pressure wave technology, which means there’s less thermal damage to surrounding tissues, less discomfort and ultimately less downtime.
Many people find that choosing the PicoSure treatment is a way to lessen acne scars and enhance the smoothness and flexibility of their skin overall. The quick bursts of laser energy, from the treatment encourage the body to produce collagen and elastin. Essential components for keeping skin looking youthful and tight. Patients generally like that the effects of PicoSure are gentle when compared to laser methods and that they typically experience downtime after the procedure. Usually just a few days, with mild redness. If you’re searching for a effective solution to address pigmentation and fine lines concerns effectively consider giving PicoSure a try, it could be your top pick, in this category!
6 – Clear + Brilliant Laser
Often referred to as a “starter laser” or a “baby Fraxel” due to its gentle approach and effective results. This laser is designed for individuals looking to maintain youthful skin and address early signs of ageing, such as dullness, uneven tone, and fine lines. Unlike more aggressive lasers like CO2, Clear + Brilliant has very little downtime, most people experience only slight redness for a day or two.
It works by targeting small treatment zones in the superficial skin layers to stimulate the production of collagen and enhance luminosity. It is a choice, for individuals who’re inexperienced with laser treatments or seek routine upkeep to maintain their skins’ optimal state. Through a series of sessions Clear + Brilliant aids in enhancing skin tone and texture while promoting radiance. This treatment is favored among individuals, in their 20s and 30s seeking to retain their vitality.
7 – Erbium Laser
A less invasive alternative to the CO2 laser, making it suitable for treating fine lines and superficial skin concerns. It’s particularly effective for those who want visible results but with shorter recovery periods compared to the CO2 laser. The Erbium laser works by ablating the outer layers of skin, which stimulates collagen growth and results in tighter, smoother skin.
Typically involves about a week of downtime. During this period the skin will peel, revealing a fresh, rejuvenated layer beneath. Erbium lasers are ideal for those with moderate signs of ageing, such as mild wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Compared to CO2 lasers, the Erbium laser offers more effective resurfacing while causing less thermal damage to the surrounding tissues. This significantly reduces the risks of hypopigmentation or scarring.
8 – Laser Genesis
A non-invasive laser treatment that uses Nd technology to stimulate collagen and reduce redness without any downtime, earning it the nickname “lunchtime facial.” Laser Genesis is particularly effective for fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and rosacea. It’s a comfortable treatment that is virtually painless, with no numbing cream required.
Laser Genesis delivers gentle heat to the deeper layers of the skin, encouraging collagen production over time. Many people choose Laser Genesis because it offers subtle, natural results and allows them to return to their regular activities immediately.
9 – Alexandrite Laser
This laser is known for its effectiveness in treating pigmented lesions, such as age spots and freckles, as well as for hair removal. Its shorter wavelength makes it particularly suitable for individuals with lighter skin tones. It can also be used on darker tones with careful adjustment by a professional. Alexandrite is highly efficient for targeting pigmentation as it breaks down melanin to achieve a more even skin tone.
This laser is also popular for hair removal, as its wavelength is well absorbed by melanin, making it effective for reducing hair growth on lighter skin types. The key to Alexandrite’s success is its ability to treat surface-level issues with more precision than others. This means offering great results in relatively fewer sessions. Is that not grant?
10 – Q-switched Nd:YAG Laser
One of the most advanced lasers for treating pigmented lesions and tattoo removal. It uses very short, high-intensity pulses to break down pigment particles in the skin, making it effective for removing sunspots, birthmarks, and unwanted tattoos. The laser targets pigmentation without harming the surrounding tissue, which makes it a preferred choice for those with stubborn skin issues.
Q-switched Nd:YAG Laser can be used on all skin types, and it’s versatile enough to treat both superficial and deeper pigmentation. A winner.
Pure Growth
The laser treatment industry has grown massively in recent years, largely due to advancements in technology that have made treatments more effective, affordable, and accessible to a wider range of people. Modern lasers can be used on various skin tones and for a broader array of conditions than ever before, from fine lines to vascular lesions. As Jason N. Pozner, M.D. states, “There are fewer telltale signs of treatment, which meets consumers’ demands for effective but subtle improvements.”
Lasers are no longer just a futuristic concept. They have been in usage for decades already. They are providing solutions to help us look our best. A sector that is showing no signs of slowing down. Not anytime in the long-run either. Well, only unless beauty goes out of fashion. And what are the chances of that ever happening?
