The long-pulsed YAG laser is a popular cosmetic treatment for adults with vascular lesions, pigment irregularities, spider veins, and other skin concerns, like wrinkles and fine lines. The Nd:YAG laser, set in the long-pulsed mode, is safer for all skin types compared to all other YAG pulse durations.
How Does The Long-Pulsed YAG Laser Rejuvenate Skin?
The YAG laser uses an intense light that injures the targeted area by heating the tissue or subcutaneous skin. This injury stimulates your body’s natural collagen growth response. Because collagen improves the skin’s health and texture and as your body heals, the treated area will be smooth and tight once it is fully healed.
How Does The Long-Pulsed YAG Laser Treat Vascular Lesions?
If we are using the YAG laser to treat vascular lesions, the laser will be targeted to enter the vein where the laser energy is then absorbed until the vein walls collapse which shuts the vein down. The vein will disappear immediately, or your body will absorb it over the course of 1-2 weeks following treatment.
How To Prepare For Your Long-Pulsed YAG Laser Treatment?
If you have an upcoming long-pulsed YAG laser treatment, you should avoid direct sunlight for the 2 weeks prior to your appointment. Keep in mind, if you are sunburned or tanned, your treatment will need to be rescheduled.
What To Expect During Treatment And After Treatment?
Typically, during a YAG laser treatment there is little discomfort. This minor discomfort is typically described as that of a “rubber snap” on your skin. After treatment, the treated areas are usually pink and sometimes mild swelling can occur; this will resolve within 1-2 days.
Vascular lesions can sometimes develop a gray or “charred” appearance which resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Aftercare Instructions For Your Long-Pulsed YAG Laser Treatment
Avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen to prevent hyperpigmentation of areas treated. Remember, your skin will be more sensitive after any laser treatment. Use an ice pack as needed to help with swelling and avoid strenuous activities for 48-72 hours after treatment. If a scab forms, avoid picking or any manipulation to area, and use Vaseline or an antibiotic ointment daily until healed. You can wear makeup immediately after treatment.
How Many Long-Pulsed YAG Laser Treatments Are Needed?
Multiple treatments, typically 2-3, may be required to achieve your desired results. Treatments are typically anywhere from 4-6 weeks apart from each other.
Contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center
Are you interested in learning more about cosmetic laser treatments? Do you want to know if you are a candidate? If so, contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. Our office in Orland Park, IL serves patients all over the Chicagoland area and beyond. Call us at 708.614.6600 today!
Learn more about the Cosmetic Laser Treatments offered by Dr. Samir Shah and Dr. Rajendra Shah:
