This technology has apparently been around for a few years, but seems timely to us because 1) some of us have been spending too much time in the sun this summer and 2) just heard about its new use.
Lasers can now be used to tighten skin. The same GentleYAG laser that was approved for hair and vein removal was recently approved to attenuate wrinkles. This commerical site explains it well (they also taught us the difference between aesthetic and cosmetic procedures):
The GentleYag laser treatment tightens the skin by transferring heat to the deepest layers of the skin. The non-ablative laser creates thermal injury below the epidermis resulting in a healing response to the upper dermis. This process then causes the dwelling fibroblasts to stimulate the precursors of collagen, elastin, and other proteins. By activating enough of your own collagen source, wrinkles and sagging skin can diminish within weeks after the treatment.
Some patients have reported that they can see results in just a few days after treatment; however, the optimum results occur anywhere from 4-6 weeks after the treatment. If recommended, a second or third treatment may be done approximately 6 weeks apart. As gravity and the aging process naturally take place, the skin looses its youthful appearance, but this treatment is a great alternative to a surgical facelift.
So, it’s like botox, except the lethal toxins have been replaced by lasers! (Is there any weapon that can’t be employed to tighten skin? It’s the modern version of swords-into-plowshares).
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