Laser Therapy
Non-ablative lasers heat the deep layers of the skin without vaporizing or damaging its surface. This thermal effect promotes collagen production and accelerates skin cell turnover, which can improve its texture and the initial signs of aging, such as superficial wrinkles and decreased skin tone, and also help eliminate hyperpigmentation and significantly improve complexion. Because this type of laser therapy is gentler than ablation, multiple treatment sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. The advantage of this treatment is minimal recovery time ("lunchtime procedure") and the ability to perform it year-round. Ablative lasers have a more intense effect on the skin by removing areas of the surface layer of the skin (epidermis), accompanied by simultaneous intense heating of the underlying layer (dermis). This not only triggers powerful collagen production but also causes skin contraction, leading to smoothing of wrinkles and scars, reduction of pores, improved skin texture, and even a lifting effect, especially in cases of fine-wrinkle aging. However, the skin requires more time to recover after laser treatment (usually up to two weeks). However, noticeable results can be seen in just 1-2 treatment sessions.
Chemical Peels
Despite the widespread popularity of laser therapy, various types of chemical peels remain a traditional method of rapid and controlled skin exfoliation using one or more chemicals applied to the skin. The most popular active ingredients are AHA (glycolic, lactic, citric) and BHA acids (salicylic), and TCA (trichloroacetic acid). They have both a stimulating and exfoliating effect due to the partial or complete destruction of the superficial layer of the skin, and, in some cases, the upper layers of the dermis. In addition, depending on the composition of the peeling, it can reduce pigmentation, reduce skin oiliness, deeply cleanse pores, normalize the activity of the sebaceous glands, and reduce inflammation in acne.
According to the depth of damage, chemical peels are divided into superficial (when there is light exfoliation of the most superficial layers of the epidermis), medium (when damage can partially reach the upper layer of the dermis) and deep (when deeper layers of the skin are damaged).
It should be noted that the depth of skin damage in both laser and chemical peeling determines the duration of the rehabilitation period, the likelihood of development and severity of complications.
In modern cosmetology, superficial peels and more gentle laser treatments are used in most cases, since the trends for performing procedures are: minimizing trauma, reducing the risk of complications while simultaneously increasing effectiveness, using compounds that stimulate the cellular structure of the skin, the possibility of performing procedures in all seasons (even in summer).
In the post-procedural period, if the protocols for laser therapy and chemical peels are followed, as well as careful adherence to post-procedural recommendations, complications are extremely rare. However, failure to follow the doctor's recommendations may result in the following complications: increased skin sensitivity (to skin care products, decorative cosmetics, sun, cold, and wind), prolonged redness, hyperpigmentation, worsening acne, worsening herpes, skin infection and inflammation, and scarring.
Post-procedure period
Depending on the type of laser used, the type of chemical peel, and the depth of skin damage, recovery from the procedure can take from 1-3 days to 3 weeks. Swelling, redness, and burning of varying intensity may be present during the early recovery period, necessitating adjustments to your skincare routine. Strict adherence to the instructions is essential to ensure the best results from the procedure. The objectives of home care prescribed by a doctor: reducing discomfort, preventing side effects and complications, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant therapy, preventing premature removal of crusts, stimulating regenerative processes, protecting the skin from ultraviolet radiation.
Key tips for restorative skin care after peeling and laser therapy
Gently cleanse the skin
After a laser procedure or peeling, it is recommended not to wet the skin for 12-24 hours. Subsequently, use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to cleanse, moisturize, and soothe damaged skin. These cleansers may contain ceramides, vitamin F, panthenol (provitamin B5), prebiotics, niacinamide, and physio-adapted water. Avoid products containing acids, retinol, and exfoliating particles (scrubs). Wash with warm (not hot!) water and gently pat your face dry with a soft towel without rubbing.
Avoid heat
During the recovery period, it is recommended to avoid steaming the skin and exposure to high temperatures (hot showers, baths, saunas). Intense physical activity should also be temporarily suspended. Heating the skin causes the pores to enlarge, making damaged skin even more irritated and vulnerable to bacteria.
Avoid the sun
After a traumatic procedure, the skin is especially sensitive to ultraviolet radiation. Exposure to it can lead to persistent post-traumatic hyperpigmentation. Moreover, even short exposure to the sun can impede the healing process and cause irritation and inflammation. Therefore, it is advisable to stay home for the first few days, and if you must go outside, be sure to apply sunscreen. You should give preference to products with the highest degree of protection (SPF 50 and above), containing regenerating and soothing ingredients such as panthenol, omega 3-6-9 natural oils, vitamin E.
Use a specialized restorative cream
We are used to using a step-by-step approach in our routine care, which may include exfoliants, toners, serums, gels, creams, concentrates, masks containing many anti-aging and other active ingredients. Although this is a great way to preserve the beauty and youth of your skin, during its healing, familiar ingredients can cause severe irritation and even inflammation of the skin, including acne-like breakouts. This is due to a disruption of the skin barrier and temporary hypersensitivity. In the post-procedure period, care should be simple and effective, so you should use only a gentle cleanser and a regenerating cream. In addition, it is important to remember that laser or chemical peeling damages the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to infections. Therefore, it is important to choose products that not only restore the skin but also effectively prevent complications.
LIBREDERM SKINOPLAS DUO Restorative Balm improves skin regeneration, eliminates dryness, irritation, flaking, and other discomfort, soothes, and has an antibacterial effect. It contains two main active ingredients: panthenol in a high concentration of 5% and chlorhexidine, as well as a multimineral active complex, which includes zinc, copper and magnesium minerals (stimulates cellular energy metabolism), centella asiatica leaf extract (improves the epithelialization process, promotes the healing of minor wounds and burns, regenerates skin cells, increases firmness and elasticity, tones, strengthens connective tissue), single-cell red microalgae extract (reduces skin sensitivity, promotes recovery) and peach oil, known for its moisturizing, nourishing and vitaminizing effects.
Do not exfoliate the skin
Depending on the intensity of the exposure, the type of laser or peeling used, you may experience peeling after the procedure (usually 2-4 days). Under no circumstances try to tear off the scales, do not rub the skin with a washcloth and do not use a scrub. Otherwise, such actions can not only lead to persistent skin inflammation and infection, but can also slow the healing process and lead to scarring.
Eat a balanced diet
A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports the skin's ability to heal. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in your diet to speed up its recovery.