Oh, What We Can Achieve with Lasers!

Over the past two decades, we’ve seen enormous growth in the area of aesthetic medicine. Doctors had begun using laser devices for medical procedures years prior to the development of machines that could harness the right wavelengths of light for just about every dermatologic concern. The safety rating for lasers had already been proven. All that needed to be done was to refine the use of light for nuanced problems.

At the Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center in Teaneck, NJ, we offer several advanced laser treatments for patients interested in improving their appearance. Some of the common problems that we can resolve with the help of lasers include:

Moles and Birthmarks

Moles and birthmarks may both be present from birth. Moles are usually black or brown dots or fleshy growths. They may also be flesh-toned and can be found in groups or alone. A birthmark can be various colors and may grow to be quite large and prominent on the skin, causing concerns that the child may grow to be self-conscious or may face teasing.

Examples of moles and birthmarks include:

• Congenital mole (dark and irregularly shaped)
• Atypical mole (irregular color and undefined borders)
• Salmon patch (reddish patch, usually on the upper eyelid)
• Hemangioma (reddish-purple patch or raised dots)
• Mongolian spot (flat, bluish and irregularly shaped)
• Cafe-au-lait spot (light-brown patch)
• Port-wine stain (dark red and flat)

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that may affect approximately 10 percent of the population. This condition causes diffuse redness on the face and may also involve the development of small, pus-filled bumps. Because of the similarities, rosacea can easily be mistaken for acne. Studies suggest that rosacea may run in families and is more often diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 60. Lasers can reduce the redness associated with rosacea by causing visible blood vessels to collapse.

Tattoos

Tattoos are a popular way for people to express themselves. However, not every tattoo remains meaningful throughout a person’s lifetime. Many people seek treatment to remove a tattoo that has worn out its welcome. Fast-pulse Q-switched lasers target the ink particles that make up a tattoo. The energy absorbed by ink particles breaks them up into tiny pieces that the body is then able to get rid of naturally.

Unwanted Hair

Getting rid of unwanted hair can be an endless chore when temporary methods are used. Some people have to shave every day to achieve their desired look. Some get waxed periodically. Whatever the method, most techniques must be repeated to maintain smooth skin and, in some cases, never achieve the full smooth texture one desires. Laser hair removal is a long-term technique that works by targeting hair follicles. When laser is absorbed into the hair follicles, the thermal energy incurs controlled damage that prevents continued growth. After a series of treatments, hair growth should be sparse, if that, for many years.

Our office is equipped with proven, FDA-cleared laser devices to address your pressing concerns. To schedule a consultation, call 201.836.9696.