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How Do IPL Treatments Compare to Lasers?

Energy-based cosmetic treatments provide a wide range of benefits for patients: They refresh and rejuvenate the skin and are effective tools for treating numerous types of skin problems. Patients seeking this type of rejuvenation have multiple options, including both lasers and other lights. While it is true that light-based treatments like intense pulsed light (IPL) work similarly to lasers, they are not the same thing.

What is the difference between laser and light therapy? Our Arizona-based Ironwood Dermatology team knows that patients are sometimes unsure about which type of treatment will be best for them. The best choice for you depends on how you feel about the time commitment, recovery, and results from the treatments you choose.

Here is what you should know about how laser therapy compares to light therapy with IPL.

Lasers produce a single strong wavelength of light that targets a specific chromophore in the skin (such as melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin), water, or hemoglobin in blood vessels. These treatments penetrate the skin more deeply than IPL treatments and produce a more concentrated wavelength of light. Lasers are also highly effective for promoting collagen production. There are several subcategories of lasers, including ablative devices that remove the outer layer of skin and non-ablative treatments that heat the underlying layers of skin to encourage collagen growth without harming or removing the surface.

IPL treatments also use light to rejuvenate the skin, but they are gentler than lasers and typically better for light touch-ups compared to more powerful laser skin rejuvenation treatments. IPL devices give off multiple wavelengths of light ideal for reducing red and brown pigmentation. They are less aggressive and cause less discomfort compared to more aggressive lasers. They can also cover a larger area of skin, so sessions are shorter and there is minimal downtime after—making them perfect “lunchtime treatments.”

Laser treatments are better for deeper resurfacing and, depending on the intensity of the laser, may require fewer treatments compared to IPL.

Our Arizona-based Ironwood Dermatology team can tell you more about what both laser and light treatments involve. Call us at 520.618.1630 or submit a contact form to schedule a consultation with our providers if you’re ready to learn more.

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Turn Back the Clock with Laser Skin Resurfacing: Your Guide to Laser Skin Treatments

Are you interested in discovering the secret to youthful, vibrant skin in the heart of the Sonoran Desert? Welcome to the enlightening world of laser skin treatments in the Tucson area! Laser skin resurfacing can help you achieve revitalized skin that radiates health and vitality by reducing fine lines and improving skin tone.

Skin Aging: A Battle We All Fight

The living canvas of our skin portrays our stories, emotions, and the passage of time—but early signs of aging such as fine lines, age spots, and wrinkles are not welcomed with open arms. Happily, there are ways we can take control of the story our skin tells all who see us.

The Power of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing, an advanced technique in the world of dermatology, helps us combat years of sun damage and age. By removing the outermost layers of skin, this advanced treatment speeds up the natural healing process, promoting new collagen growth and unveiling fresh, radiant skin.

Getting Up Close and Personal with Laser Skin Treatments in Tucson

Ironwood Dermatology in Tucson is proud to offer state-of-the-art laser skin revitalizing treatments that produce successful and lasting outcomes. Our team is both proficient and caring, providing a personalized experience for each individual. We adjust every session to accommodate your skin type, specific needs, and aesthetic goals.

Expectations and Results

Wondering what to expect during and after the treatment? On average, laser skin resurfacing takes between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the area being treated. You may experience a feeling akin to a mild sunburn after, along with redness and swelling. Expect a significant change as your skin regenerates and heals: Reduced wrinkles, improved texture, and faded scars are all part of the package!

Make an Enlightened Decision

Before choosing laser skin resurfacing, it is important to consider the benefits and risks of the procedure. Although the treatment has several benefits, a few people may encounter side effects like extended redness or minor alteration in skin pigmentation. The importance of a pre-procedure consultation cannot be overstated to ensure optimized, tailored results. Ironwood Dermatology’s team is dedicated to guiding you on the exciting journey toward rejuvenated skin.

Transform Your Skin Story with Laser Skin Treatments in Tucson

To sum up, laser skin resurfacing can transform your skin from a story of aging to a narrative of rejuvenation and radiance.

Is it time to turn a new leaf in your skin story? Take the journey of transformation with us at Ironwood Dermatology! Get in touch with us today at 520.618.1630 or book a consultation for all your laser skin treatment needs. We are dedicated to providing personalized care and unparalleled commitment to help you present your best face!

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Can Laser Therapy Reduce Scars?

Many of our patients want to know: What is the best laser for scar removal? Our Arizona-based team at Ironwood Dermatology explains that fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is highly effective for reducing scars along with other skin tone or texture irregularities.

Scarring (whether by acne, other conditions, trauma, or surgery) occurs as a normal part of the healing process. After tissue is damaged, the body stimulates collagen growth in the area as a way of repairing wounds and closing any gaps that have developed. Acne, for example, can penetrate the outer layer of skin and harm the deeper layers, prompting a response from the body. Acne can be an inconvenience at best—but may also have a harmful effect on your self-esteem in addition causing permanent damage to the skin.

As collagen continues to build up throughout the healing process, the skin can develop a raised or bumpy appearance. Scar tissue may also be smooth or an obviously different texture from the surrounding skin, as well as a different shade or color.

Scars don’t ever completely go away, but they can gradually fade over time. Women and men who want to take more direct action can choose laser skin resurfacing, which uses light energy to remove the outer layer of damaged skin while promoting the production of new skin to take its place. Although lasers won’t completely remove scars, they can minimize scars’ appearance by prompting a fresh round of “repair work” in the target area.

Laser skin resurfacing can minimize several different types of scars, including: 

• Injury scars

• Burn marks

• Acne scars

During a laser treatment session, light passes through the surface to create heat beneath the skin. This prompts the creation of new, healthy collagen and promotes the growth of fresh skin.

There’s no one treatment that’s suitable for everyone—and acne scars can be especially stubborn. In addition to laser treatments, patients may consider facial fillers for indented scars, along with other approaches like chemical peels, microneedling, and microdermabrasion to remove outer layers and encourage renewal in inner layers. Keep in mind that fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing can reduce more severe scars compared to other types of laser skin treatments. 

Our team at Ironwood Dermatology can explain more about scar treatments during your consultation. Call us at 520.618.1630 or submit a contact form to request an appointment if you’d like to discuss laser skin resurfacing treatments to improve the look of your skin.