Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Skin Tightening

Permanent Improvement of Facial Wrinkles and Lines

Q: What is Laser Skin Tightening?
A: Laser Skin Tightening is a series of laser treatments, using the Candela GentleYAG laser, designed to stimulate dermal collagen production and regeneration of damaged skin cells. The single-wavelength light energy produced by the GentleYAG targets fibroblasts in the dermis, which produce new collagen in response to laser energy. Increased turnover of skin cells is also stimulated, helping to regenerate and replace damaged cells.

Q: Will I have to take time from work or my children to recover?
A: No. There is no downtime or external injury to the skin. A person can return to work or reapply makeup immediately following the procedure. The full face and neck can be treated in just one hour.

Q: How long will the results last?
A: The new dermal collagen that is produced becomes part of the structure of the treated skin, and thus Laser Skin Tightening can produce improvements in skin which lasts for years. GentleYAG skin tightening is so powerful that new collagen production can continue several months after the treatment. Most people report improvement immediately, with even more dramatic results weeks later. New collagen growth results in continued skin tightening and the development of a more youthful complexion with fewer lines, folds, and looseness of the skin. Continued exposure to the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun will result in breakdown of both existing and new collagen over time, so it is very important to protect your results by limiting sun exposure, using a high-SPF sunblock, and maintaining a healthy and scientifically sound skin care regimen.

Q: Are there other skin tightening laser systems?
A: Other laser systems have been developed that are designed to stimulate dermal collagen production (Titan, Fraxel, etc); however none have been demonstrated to be as effective as the Candela GentleYAG. The GentleYAG has more watts of power than any other skin tightening laser, and is therefore more effective in generating new collagen. The Laser Skin Tightening treatment protocols which we use were developed here at Michael Law MD, PA / Blue Water Spa, and have been adopted by medical offices and medical spas around the country and around the world.

Q: Is Laser Skin Tightening effective for both the face and body?
A: Yes. LST can be used to treat any part of the body that may benefit from softer, smoother skin quality, wrinkle reduction, improvement of pore size and texture, or elimination of acne scars. The GentleYAG can provide beautiful firm skin on the face, neck, chest, upper arms, legs and other body areas with no downtime and without the need for potentially dangerous numbing creams.

Q: How many treatments would I have to have?
A: Clinical studies suggest that 4-6 treatments spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart in most cases will produce a significant increase in dermal collagen, remodeling of dermal matrix components, and a resulting improvement in overall skin tone and vitality.

Complimentary consultations are provided to determine if you are a candidate for Laser Skin Tightening. During your initial consultation, an experienced laser technician will assess the treatment area and will design a custom treatment plan to meet your individual aesthetic needs.