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Everything You Need to Know About Laser Skin Treatments

Introduction

People often pause when they hear the word “laser”, imagining something intense, invasive, or even risky. But in the world of dermatology, lasers are anything but intimidating. In fact, today’s laser treatments are some of the most advanced, customizable, and gentle ways to target a wide range of skin concerns with precision and minimal downtime. It’s no surprise, then, that demand is quickly rising. The aesthetic cosmetic lasers market was valued at USD 3.79 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 8.92 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 11.3%. More people than ever are discovering how laser treatments can help their skin stay fresh and healthy.

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, laser and light therapies are trusted tools for everything from smoothing fine lines and fading dark spots to treating redness, scars, and unwanted hair. In this article, we’ll break down how laser treatments actually work, what conditions they can treat, and why they’ve become a go-to solution for achieving healthier, clearer skin.

While this article spells out some important information about laser treatments, we highly recommend you read the full article, here are the key points we will focus on:

Table of Contents

Laser Treatments

What Are Laser Skin Treatments And How Do They Work?

Laser skin treatments use concentrated light energy to target specific skin concerns without damaging the surrounding tissue. These controlled pulses stimulate collagen production, improve skin tone and texture, and promote cellular renewal.

There are two general categories of lasers used in dermatology:

  • Ablative lasers: These types of lasers remove the outer layers of the skin to encourage fresh new skin to emerge.
  • Nonablative lasers: These lasers work beneath the surface to trigger collagen production without affecting the outer skin layer.

 

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, our team selects the appropriate device based on your skin’s needs and your treatment goals to ensure safe and noticeable results.

What Skin Concerns Can Lasers Effectively Treat?

Laser technology has advanced significantly over the years, making it possible to treat a wide range of cosmetic and medical skin concerns. At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we use FDA-cleared devices to safely address the following conditions:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles that form due to aging or sun damage
  • Sunspots, age spots, and freckles are caused by UV exposure
  • Redness and rosacea, including broken capillaries and facial flushing
  • Acne scars and surgical scars that affect skin texture
  • Uneven skin tone or texture, including enlarged pores
  • Unwanted hair on areas like the face, legs, or underarms

Are There Different Types Of Laser Treatments Available?

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, laser and light-based therapies are carefully selected and performed by experienced providers to address a wide range of cosmetic and medical skin concerns. Each treatment is tailored to your unique skin type, goals, and lifestyle. Here’s a closer look at the laser services offered:

  • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): A popular choice for targeting sun damage, freckles, broken capillaries, and redness. IPL photofacials work by using multiple wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and break up pigmentation irregularities for a clearer, more even tone.
  • Nd: YAG Laser: Known for its ability to treat deep pigment like age spots and tattoos, this laser penetrates deeper layers of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. It’s safe for most skin types and commonly used on the face and hands.
  • VBeam Laser: Designed specifically to treat vascular concerns such as rosacea, facial redness, spider veins, and angiomas. It uses a pulsed dye laser to reduce redness and inflammation with minimal downtime.
  • Laser Genesis: A noninvasive, no-downtime laser that gently heats the dermis to stimulate collagen production. This treatment improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and restores a healthy glow. It is ideal for patients looking for subtle rejuvenation.
  • CO2RE Laser: One of the most advanced resurfacing lasers available, fractional CO2RE treats deep wrinkles, acne scars, surgical scars, and sun damage. It works by delivering controlled CO2 energy to remove damaged skin and promote collagen regeneration. Results are dramatic, and recovery is typically shorter than traditional resurfacing procedures.
  • Laser Hair Removal: Ideal for long-term hair removal, this treatment reduces the need for shaving, waxing, or plucking. It targets hair follicles with precision and is effective on multiple areas of the body, including legs, underarms, face, and bikini line.

What Should You Expect During A Laser Treatment Session?

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, every session starts with a comprehensive consultation. This ensures your provider understands your skin goals and can tailor the treatment accordingly while prioritizing safety and results.

Before the treatment begins, the targeted area will be cleansed thoroughly. Depending on the laser being used and your sensitivity, a topical numbing cream may be applied to minimize any potential discomfort. Protective eyewear is provided to shield your eyes from the intense light emitted by the laser device.

The treatment itself involves a handheld laser device delivering concentrated light energy to your skin. Most patients describe the sensation as a brief snapping or warming feeling that is noticeable but tolerable. Sessions typically last anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area and the type of laser being used.

After the session, it’s common to experience mild redness, sensitivity, or swelling, similar to a light sunburn. Your provider will offer personalized aftercare instructions to support the healing process and optimize your results. While certain treatments like Laser Genesis or VBeam may have little to no downtime, more intensive procedures such as CO2RE resurfacing could require a few days of recovery, during which you may notice flaking or peeling skin.

Are Laser Treatments Safe For All Skin Types?

Laser treatments have evolved significantly, and many options available today are designed to be safe and effective across a wide range of skin tones. However, not every laser is ideal for every skin type. That’s why expert evaluation is key.

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, the use of advanced technologies like the Nd: YAG laser allows for safe treatment of darker pigmented skin, as it targets specific areas without damaging surrounding tissue. Their board-certified dermatologists assess each patient’s unique skin characteristics and concerns before recommending a tailored treatment plan. This approach minimizes the risk of irritation or discoloration, particularly for those with melanin-rich skin.

Whether you’re treating redness, pigmentation, or signs of aging, BMD’s commitment to safety and personalization ensures that laser therapy is both effective and suitable for your skin.

What Benefits Can You Expect From Laser Skin Treatments?

Laser skin treatments offer a wide range of benefits that go beyond surface-level improvements. One of the most significant advantages is improved skin texture. Laser treatments help smooth rough patches, minimize enlarged pores, and soften fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging collagen and elastin production. Discoloration such as sunspots, age spots, and redness can also fade with consistent treatment, resulting in a more even, radiant complexion.

Lasers are especially effective in treating scars, including acne scarring, by resurfacing the skin and promoting new cell turnover. For those with rosacea or visible blood vessels, vascular lasers can significantly reduce redness and enhance overall skin tone. Many people also report firmer, more youthful-looking skin following treatment, with continued improvement over time as collagen remodeling progresses.

Ultimately, laser treatments offer a noninvasive way to rejuvenate the skin, address multiple concerns simultaneously, and support a long-lasting, natural glow.

How Can Bryn Mawr Dermatology Transform Your Skin With Laser Treatments?

Unlike generic med spas, Bryn Mawr Dermatology offers medically guided care backed by years of clinical experience. Every laser treatment plan is personalized, taking into account your skin type, condition, and goals to ensure optimal outcomes with minimal downtime. From IPL photofacials and CO2RE resurfacing to advanced solutions like VBeam and Sublative laser therapy, we offer precision care that prioritizes both your comfort and your confidence.

If you’re ready to explore how laser therapy can revitalize your skin, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us today at (267) 486 3482 or schedule your appointment online to learn more about the best laser treatment options for your skin.

Related Content

Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Content Review Committee at Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Led by Board Certified Dermatologist, Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD, Bryn Mawr Dermatology incorporates a patient-focused outlook in every decision since we first opened our doors on the Main Line in 2005.

By: Bryn Mawr Dermatology, Published: March 4 2024
Medically Reviewed By: Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD –March 3, 2025

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