Laser Skin Tightening
Laser skin tightening is a minimally invasive, non-surgical process that uses an infrared light source (a laser) to tighten skin by heating the collagen under the skin’s surface, causing the skin to contract (tighten). Facial skin tightening can be noticeable immediately after the treatment, and there is no downtime, making this an increasingly popular procedure. Additional skin tightening occurs over the next few months, but optimal results usually require two or three treatments about a month apart.
Tight, firm skin requires good elasticity. Elasticity means the ability of the skin or integument to snap back or tighten after it has been displaced or pulled away from the body. Good elasticity depends on healthy collagen and elastin fibers that lie very deep, near the bottom of the dermis, the deep layer of our integument below the surface. Collagen and elastin fibers act like small rubber bands that hold the integument tight against our body, and pull the loose tissue back when it is stretched or pulled.
Aging, sun damage from ultraviolet (UV) light, smoking, stress, excessive alcohol intake and an unhealthy diet and lifestyle all destroy collagen and elastin in the dermis and cause the integument to loosen and sag. Stretching caused by pregnancy or rapid weight loss after dieting or gastric bypass surgery also destroys collagen and elastin in the dermis and results in sagging and loss of tone.
All laser and non-surgical skin tightening methods work by stimulating the growth of new collagen and elastin in the dermis. When you heat collagen and elastin to 66 degrees centigrade, the collagen and elastin fibers shrink or tighten, and are remodeled with new collagen and elastin formation. The effect of this skin tightening and new collagen and elastin formation is that the deep dermis contracts and becomes firmer and the loose tissue is tightened.
The most effective surface applied skin tightening machines today use either radiofrequency or infrared heat energy to firm loose and sagging tissue on the neck, arms and tummy.
These machines can penetrate deeply into the dermis, down to 2000 microns where the elastin fibers are most plentiful. These deep treatments are necessary for maximum firming and skin tightening.
Note that at least 4 treatments are usually required for the best result with most machines. New collagen and elastin production will not occur until 6 months after your last treatment, so it takes time to see your final result.
Laser skin tightening is appropriate for men and women of all skin types and skin tones who wish to achieve results without painful surgery and lengthy recovery times.