Considering a laser facial treatment but unsure what to expect? Laser facials are one of the most effective treatments for improving skin tone, texture, and overall appearance. At Pure Med Spa Chicago, we offer advanced laser facials designed to target various skin concerns, including acne scars, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin texture.
This guide will walk you through laser facial before, during, and after so you know exactly how to prepare, what happens during the treatment, and how to care for your skin afterward.
What is a Laser Facial?
A laser facial treatment is a non-invasive or minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to improve skin health and appearance. The treatment stimulates collagen production, removes damaged skin cells, and encourages cellular renewal.
There are different types of laser facials. Ablative lasers work by removing the outer layer of skin, making them ideal for deep resurfacing. Non-ablative lasers target deeper skin layers without removing the surface, helping with skin rejuvenation while requiring less downtime. Fractional lasers focus on small portions of the skin, allowing for faster healing while still delivering noticeable results.
At Pure Med Spa Chicago, our specialists help determine the best laser facial for skin rejuvenation based on your individual skin concerns.
Benefits of a Laser Facial
A laser facial treatment offers multiple benefits, making it a popular choice for skin rejuvenation. The key advantages include:
- Smoother skin texture
- Reduction of acne scars and hyperpigmentation
- Stimulation of collagen production
- Minimized fine lines and wrinkles
- Decreased redness and inflammation
- Smaller pores
- Long-lasting results
Unlike traditional facials, laser facials penetrate deeper into the skin, making them highly effective for more persistent skin concerns.
How to Prepare for a Laser Facial
Proper preparation can make a significant difference in achieving the best results from your laser facial treatment.
Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks before your appointment. Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of laser facial side effects such as irritation and redness. Stop using exfoliants, retinoids, and other harsh skincare products 3-5 days before your session to prevent excessive skin sensitivity.
Keeping your skin hydrated is also essential. Drink plenty of water and use a gentle moisturizer leading up to your appointment. On the day of your laser facial treatment, arrive with a clean face, free from makeup, lotions, or sunscreen.
Additionally, inform your provider at Pure Med Spa Chicago if you’re taking any medications, especially antibiotics or acne treatments, as some medications can increase skin sensitivity.
What Happens During a Laser Facial?
The laser facial treatment process is straightforward and typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.
First, your skin is cleansed to remove any dirt or oils. If necessary, a numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort, especially for deeper resurfacing treatments.
Next, the laser is used to target specific skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and fine lines. You may feel a warm or tingling sensation as the laser energy works to stimulate collagen production and remove damaged skin cells.
After the treatment, cooling methods may be applied to reduce swelling and redness. A soothing serum and sunscreen are then applied to protect your skin.
The laser facial pain level depends on the type of laser used, but most patients describe the sensation as mild to moderate, similar to a snapping rubber band.
What to Expect After a Laser Facial?
After a laser facial treatment, your skin will go through a healing process. Immediately after the procedure, you might experience mild redness and swelling, similar to a sunburn. Some people also notice a slight warmth or tingling sensation.
The laser facial recovery time varies based on the type of laser used and individual skin sensitivity. Most people experience minimal downtime, with redness fading within a few hours to a couple of days. The laser facial redness duration depends on your skin type and the intensity of the treatment.
Within the first three days, your skin may start to feel dry or slightly rough as the outermost layer begins to shed. After about a week, your skin will appear brighter, smoother, and more even-toned. Full results typically become visible within two to four weeks, as collagen production increases and your skin continues to improve.
Laser Facial Aftercare Tips
Taking proper care of your skin after a laser facial treatment is essential for achieving the best results.
Always apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from UV damage. Stick to gentle skincare products, avoiding harsh exfoliants and strong active ingredients such as retinol or glycolic acid for at least a week. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and applying a nourishing moisturizer.
If you experience swelling or redness, applying a cool compress can help soothe your skin. Avoid excessive heat exposure, including hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise, for at least 48 hours after your treatment.
Our team at Pure Med Spa Chicago provides personalized aftercare instructions to ensure your skin heals beautifully.
Laser Facial vs. Chemical Peel
When deciding between a laser facial treatment and a chemical peel, it’s important to understand how each treatment works.
A laser facial uses laser energy to target deeper skin layers, stimulating collagen production and improving overall skin texture. It is highly effective for treating acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines, with minimal downtime.
A chemical peel, on the other hand, relies on acids to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This treatment is best for mild discoloration and surface texture concerns. However, peeling and downtime can last longer than with a laser facial.
For those looking for deeper skin rejuvenation with long-lasting results, a laser facial treatment at Pure Med Spa Chicago may be the better choice.
How Much Does a Laser Facial Cost?
The laser facial cost depends on various factors, including the type of laser used, the treatment area, and the number of sessions required.
At Pure Med Spa Chicago, we offer competitive pricing and customized packages to make high-quality skincare accessible. Our team can provide a personalized treatment plan based on your skin goals.
Book Your Laser Facial at Pure Med Spa Chicago
Are you ready to achieve smoother, more radiant skin? At Pure Med Spa Chicago, we specialize in advanced laser facial treatments tailored to your skin type and concerns. Whether you want to reduce acne scars, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines, our expert team is here to help.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Call/Text: 312.312.7873
Experience the benefits of a laser facial before, during, and after with the best skincare professionals in Chicago. Let Pure Med Spa Chicago help you achieve your skin goals!