Smoothbeam is an exciting laser technology that is FDA approved for the treatment of wrinkles, acne, and acne scarring. This type of laser is noninvasive and non-ablative (does not scar). The Smoothbeam laser does not burn, cut, or remove the skin surface. It helps to renew the skin by stimulating the formation of new collagen production beneath the outer layers of the skin. This laser uses a combination of heating and cooling to act on the middle layers of skin to produce its effect. It targets and heats the upper dermis collagen while leaving the epidermis, the top layer of skin, intact.
A series of treatments are usually recommended for the Smoothbeam to exert its complete effect. Side-effects are rare with this laser, the most common being mild redness. A complete side effect profile will be discussed at your visit. To learn more about our lasers, you may visit http://www.candelalaser.com/
What will the procedure be like? The procedure will take about 15-30 minutes and can be a “lunchtime” procedure if you do not want aggressive treatment sessions. You and the doctor wear special goggles to protect your eyes during the procedure. The laser has a special cooling device, a spray which quickly cools the skin a moment before the laser heats, minimizing any burning feeling. The laser will feel like a snapping on the skin: a topical anesthetic can be applied prior to the procedure to decrease discomfort.
How does it work? The Smoothbeam laser triggers the production of new collagen. This process can soften acne scars and fill in and work from the “inside out” by lifting the depression that acne scars form. By stimulating the production of collagen in the dermis of the skin with the laser’s thermal beam, scars are gradually filled in by your production of your own collagen. This is the how wrinkles are softened and decreased and it works especially well around the eyes. It also has been shown to decrease the size of sebaceous glands and thus decrease acne papules and cysts.
What diseases can be treated with the Smoothbeam laser? This diode laser is the first device which was designed to target the cause of acne: the sebaceous gland. It also improves acne scars and softens fine lines and wrinkles around the face, often noticed near the eyes. It can be used with the V-Beam laser to decrease scarring and redness caused by acne. This laser has been shown to have excellent results with Stretch Marks (Striae). Stretch marks are white or reddish depressed scars that most commonly occur in areas of the skin that have experienced rapid weight gain, muscle growth, or pregnancy. Initially, the striae begin as pink stretch marks on the skin and then mature into whitish linear depressions. The V-Beam laser and Smoothbeam laser can be used to diminish these stretch marks.
Should patients take any precautions before and after treatment? Your skin should not be tanned during Smoothbeam treatments. You should avoid sun exposure both before and after the treatment.