Laser treatment for scars reduces the appearance of scars. It uses focused light therapy to either remove the outer layer of the skin’s surface or stimulate the production of new skin cells to cover damaged skin cells. Laser treatment for scars can reduce the appearance of warts, skin wrinkles, age spots, scars, and keloids. It doesn’t completely remove a scar.
This procedure requires a topical anesthetic to numb the skin. Sometimes sedation is needed.
Laster treatment for scars is an outpatient procedure. It should only be performed by a board-certified dermatologist.
Mild side effects of the procedure include pain, swelling, redness, and temporary oozing. These effects usually disappear in a couple of days.
Laser treatment for scars
Laser therapy uses focused beams of light to treat damaged areas on the body. It can remove tumors and other growths, improve vision, stop hair loss, and treat pain. Laser therapy can also improve the appearance of scars.
Laser treatment for scars is an outpatient procedure. Your doctor repeatedly moves a laser wand over your skin to remove damaged skin cells and diminish scars. These include:
- injury scars
- burn marks
- acne scars
- dark spots, age spots, and other types of hyperpigmentation
Because this procedure involves heat and light, your doctor may not recommend it if you have light sensitivity. Certain medications can cause this type of sensitivity. Be sure to speak with your doctor to see if you’re a good candidate.
Your doctor may also discourage laser treatments if you take blood-thinning medications due to the risk of bleeding.
They may also discourage laser treatments if you have:
- active acne
- skin sores
- darker skin