Laser & Device Treatments

What are Laser & Device Treatments?

Laser and device treatments are non-surgical skin procedures that use targeted light or energy to improve skin appearance and health. These treatments are performed by a senior, qualified and experienced registered nurse under a doctor’s supervision to ensure safety and optimal results. The energy from lasers or devices stimulates the skin’s natural healing response, supporting cell renewal, collagen production and overall skin rejuvenation. They are tailored to individual needs to address a variety of concerns, such as uneven skin texture, fine lines, sun damage, pigmentation, and mild scarring.

Who is Suitable for Laser & Device Treatments?

These treatments are suitable for adults who want to improve their skin texture, firmness, and clarity without undergoing surgery. They are ideal for people with:

• Fine lines and wrinkles: Early signs of ageing that can be softened.
• Acne scars or enlarged pores: Treatments that help remodel skin and smooth out irregularities.
• Pigmentation and sun damage: Uneven skin tone caused by UV exposure.
• Loss of elasticity: Mild sagging or dullness that benefits from collagen stimulation.

Benefits of Laser & Device Treatments

• Skin rejuvenation: Stimulates collagen and elastin production for a fresher appearance.
• Improved texture: Reduces roughness, fine lines and pore size.
• Even skin tone: Reduces dark spots, redness and sun damage.
• Minimal downtime: Many treatments require little recovery compared to surgery.
• Customisation: Treatments can be adjusted for different skin types and goals.

These benefits generally appear gradually over several weeks as new collagen forms and skin naturally renews.

Types of Laser & Device Treatments

Laser and device treatments include a variety of advanced technologies, with each chosen to match specific skin concerns. Common options include:

• Fractional CO₂ Laser: A laser-based resurfacing treatment that creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This promotes natural healing and collagen production, improving texture, reducing scars, fine lines and uneven pigmentation.
• Non-ablative Fractional Lasers: Deliver heat beneath the skin without damaging the surface, targeting early ageing signs and improving tone with shorter recovery time.
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Uses light energy to target pigmentation, redness, and visible blood vessels for a clearer, more even complexion.
• Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: Use heat to tighten skin and stimulate collagen, effective for mild sagging and improving firmness.
• Skin Tightening Ultrasound Devices: High-frequency ultrasound energy penetrates deeper layers to lift and firm the skin over time.
• Combination Therapies: Sometimes lasers are combined with other treatments like microneedling, PRF/PRP, or medical-grade skincare to enhance results.

Alternative Options to Laser & Device Treatments

For those who may not be suitable for laser or prefer different options, alternatives include:

• Medical-grade skincare: Topical products with active ingredients such as retinoids or vitamin C to improve texture and tone.
• Chemical peels: Remove superficial layers of dead skin to reveal a brighter complexion.
• Microneedling: Stimulates collagen through controlled micro-injuries without the use of lasers.
• Injectables (e.g., dermal fillers, PRF/PRP): Address volume loss or improve skin quality in targeted areas.

These options can complement or substitute for laser treatments depending on individual goals and skin conditions.

What to do Before Getting a Laser & Device Treatment?

Preparation helps ensure your skin responds well and heals quickly. Your clinician will give you tailored instructions, but common steps include:

• Consultation and assessment: Discuss your skin concerns, medical history, and medications. Your clinician will determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.
• Avoid sun exposure: Minimise direct sun and use broad-spectrum sunscreen for at least 2 weeks to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
• Stop certain skincare products: Pause retinoids, strong exfoliants, or products containing glycolic or salicylic acid as advised.
• Avoid tanning and waxing: Refrain from spray tans, solariums, or waxing the treatment area to reduce skin irritation.
• Plan your schedule: Mild redness or peeling may follow treatment, so allow time if you have social or work events.
• Hydrate and eat well: Drinking water and maintaining a balanced diet support healing and skin health.

What Happens During a Laser & Device Treatment?

Your procedure will be carried out by a senior, qualified registered nurse under a doctor’s supervision. Steps usually include:

• Cleansing the skin: The treatment area is cleaned to remove makeup, oils, and impurities.
• Application of numbing cream: A topical anaesthetic may be applied to keep you comfortable.
• Protective measures: Eye shields or goggles are used to protect your eyes from the laser or light.
• Laser or device application: The clinician carefully moves the laser or device across the skin. You may feel a warm, tingling, or snapping sensation depending on the technology used.
• Cooling or soothing treatment: A cooling gel, soothing cream, or cold air may be applied to minimise heat and reduce swelling.

The session length varies from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the area and type of device.

What to Expect After Getting a Laser & Device Treatment?

Recovery varies with the type and strength of the treatment. In general, you can expect:

• Mild redness and swelling: Similar to a light sunburn, lasting from a few hours to a few days.
• Temporary flaking or peeling: As the skin heals and renews itself, you may notice gentle peeling for several days.
• Sun sensitivity: Skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. Daily use of a high-SPF sunscreen is essential.
• Results that build over time: Collagen production continues for weeks, so texture and tone improvements become more noticeable gradually.
• Aftercare guidance: Use gentle cleansers, avoid hot showers or saunas, and follow any skincare instructions provided by your clinician.

Most people return to normal activities within a few days, but stronger resurfacing treatments, such as fractional CO₂ laser, may require up to a week of downtime.

Laser & Device Treatments Prognosis

Most patients experience gradual, long-lasting improvements in skin tone, texture, and firmness. Collagen stimulation continues for weeks or even months after each session, so the skin often continues to improve well beyond the treatment day. Results depend on the device used, the number of sessions, and how well aftercare instructions are followed. Milder treatments may require repeat sessions every few months for optimal results, while stronger resurfacing options (such as fractional CO₂ laser) can yield longer-lasting changes. With ongoing sun protection and a good skincare routine, improvements typically last many months to a few years before natural ageing or new sun damage slowly reappears.

Laser & Device Treatments Risks

Laser and energy-based procedures are generally safe when performed by an experienced registered nurse under a doctor’s supervision, but all treatments carry some risks. Possible side effects include:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort: Common and usually settles within days.
• Peeling or scabbing: As the skin renews itself after stronger treatments.
• Changes in pigmentation: Temporary lightening or darkening of treated areas, more likely in darker skin tones if sun exposure occurs too soon.
• Infection or delayed healing: Rare, but more likely if aftercare instructions are not followed.
• Scarring or burns: Very rare, and minimised when performed by qualified clinicians using appropriate settings.

Following pre- and post-care advice, such as avoiding sun exposure and using prescribed ointments, helps reduce these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laser & Device Treatments

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on your skin concerns, the device used, and the desired outcome. Mild treatments such as light resurfacing or IPL may require 3 to 6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Deeper treatments, such as fractional CO₂ laser, can produce significant results after just one or two sessions, although maintenance treatments every six to 12 months may help prolong the benefits.

Is the treatment painful?

Most people describe the feeling as a warm, prickling or light snapping sensation. A numbing cream or cooling system is often used to minimise discomfort. Deeper resurfacing treatments may cause stronger sensations, but these are brief and well-managed.

How soon will I see results?

Initial improvements, such as brighter and smoother skin, can appear within days. Collagen production continues over several weeks, with the most noticeable improvements in firmness and texture appearing at 6 to 12 weeks after treatment.

Can I go back to work the same day?

Many gentle laser or device treatments involve minimal downtime, allowing for a return to work or normal activities immediately. Stronger procedures like fractional CO₂ laser may require 3 to 7 days for redness and flaking to subside.

Is it safe for all skin types?

Many modern devices are designed to treat a wide range of skin types. However, some lasers may require special settings or may not be recommended for individuals with very dark skin tones due to the risk of pigmentation changes. A professional assessment ensures a safe, tailored plan.

Can I combine laser treatments with injectables or other procedures?

Yes. Many patients combine laser or device treatments with dermal fillers, PRF/PRP, or medical-grade skincare to enhance results. Your clinician will recommend safe timelines and the best sequence of treatments.

Will the results last?

Results vary depending on the treatment type, your lifestyle, and skincare routine. With proper aftercare and sun protection, improvements can last from several months to a few years. Maintenance treatments can help extend and refresh the outcome.

Are there any individuals who should not receive these treatments?

Laser and device treatments are not suitable for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active infections, open wounds, or certain skin conditions in the treatment area. People on specific medications (like isotretinoin) may also need to postpone treatment. Your consultation will cover these factors to ensure safety.