What You Need To Know About Laser Skin Treatments

Understanding Skin Changes and Laser Skin Treatments

Ageing is a natural and ongoing biological process that affects everyone. In the skin, these changes can present in many ways, including reduced elasticity, collagen depletion, textural changes, pigmentation, scarring, and variations in overall skin tone. The way skin ages is influenced by a combination of factors such as genetics, sun exposure, lifestyle habits, medical conditions, medications, and the normal physiological changes that occur over time.

While ageing cannot be prevented, modern skin treatments may help address the appearance of certain skin concerns when appropriately selected and performed following a comprehensive consultation. Treatments are designed to support skin health and address specific concerns rather than stop or reverse ageing itself.

Laser technology plays a significant role in contemporary skin treatment. Medical lasers are used to address a range of concerns including pigmentation, fine lines, uneven texture, scarring, and sun-related skin changes. With many different laser devices available, understanding the basic categories of laser treatments can help patients make informed decisions when exploring treatment options.

Laser treatments are generally classified into two main categories: ablative and non-ablative lasers. At Dr Scott Allison’s clinic, a range of laser skin treatments are offered, with treatment selection based on individual skin concerns, medical history, and suitability determined during consultation.

Ablative Lasers

Ablative lasers work by removing controlled portions of the outer layers of the skin while also stimulating repair processes within the deeper dermal layers. These treatments are used to address more significant skin concerns such as deeper wrinkles, scarring, and advanced sun damage. In Queensland, ablative laser treatments are performed by a qualified medical practitioner and typically involve a period of downtime to allow for healing.

Because ablative treatments intentionally create a controlled skin injury, post-treatment care and recovery time are essential considerations. Treatment plans vary depending on skin condition and treatment goals, and some patients may achieve their desired outcome with one session, while others may require additional treatments.

Non-Ablative Lasers

Non-ablative lasers work by delivering energy to the deeper layers of the skin without removing the surface layers. This process aims to stimulate collagen and elastin production while preserving the epidermis. These treatments are commonly used for concerns such as pigmentation, mild to moderate skin laxity, fine lines, and textural irregularities.

Non-ablative laser treatments generally involve minimal downtime. Temporary redness or swelling may occur and typically resolves within hours to a few days, depending on the technology used and individual skin response. A series of treatments is often recommended, with maintenance treatments advised to support ongoing skin health and results.

What Laser Skin Treatments do we offer?

PicoSure Pro

PicoSure Pro is a picosecond laser used to treat selected pigmentation concerns, including melasma, and to support overall skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional laser treatments that rely on heat, PicoSure Pro delivers ultra-short pulses of energy in picoseconds, producing a photomechanical effect that targets pigment while minimising thermal damage to surrounding skin.

The laser works by breaking excess melanin into microscopic particles, which are then cleared by the body’s lymphatic system. PicoSure Pro is commonly used for sun damage, freckles, age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and certain types of melasma.

Most patients require a series of three or more treatments depending on the depth and type of pigmentation, and the recommended treatment plan will be discussed during consultation.

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis is a non-ablative laser that uses micro-pulses of laser energy to activate and support collagen remodelling. It may help address the appearance of fine lines, scarring, and certain textural irregularities. Individual results will vary.

Downtime is generally minimal, though patients may experience some temporary redness following treatment. A series of treatments is typically required — often a minimum of six sessions, spaced approximately two weeks apart.

Morpheus 8 (Radio Frequency)

Morpheus8 is an advanced radiofrequency (RF) microneedling treatment available in our New Farm clinic that targets skin laxity, texture concerns, and signs of ageing. By combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy, Morpheus8.

The Morpheus8 device uses fine, medical-grade microneedles to deliver controlled RF energy beneath the surface of the skin. This dual-action technology is commonly used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and mild to moderate skin laxity. Treatment depths can be customised to suit different areas of the face and body.

Temporary redness, swelling, or pinpoint bleeding may occur and typically resolves within a few days. Most patients require a course of one to three treatments, depending on individual skin concerns.

Vascular Laser

Vascular laser treatments use dual wavelengths of 532nm and 1064nm, which are designed to reach different depths of the skin. This technology is commonly used to address the appearance of visible blood vessels and may be suitable for use on both the face and body.

The treatment may assist in improving the appearance of vascular redness, rosacea-related redness and spider veins.

During treatment, controlled pulses of light energy are delivered to the targeted area. This energy is absorbed by the blood within the vessel, which may cause the vessel to gradually break down and be naturally cleared by the body over time.

Mild redness following treatment is common and typically settles within a few hours. A series of treatments may be recommended depending on individual skin concerns. Appropriate skincare and maintenance treatments may also be suggested to support ongoing results.

Which laser treatment may be suitable for you?

There are a number of different laser technologies available, and selecting the most appropriate option depends on your individual skin concerns, skin type, and medical history. A consultation with the team at Ascension Cosmetic Medicine in New Farm is recommended, as this allows your clinician to assess your skin and discuss which treatment options may be appropriate for your circumstances.

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