Category: Laser Skin Resurfacing

Does Sunscreen Actually Prevent Sun Damage?

Posted on by Paul Borza

Beautiful,Young,Woman,At,Beach,Applying,Sunscreen,On,Face,And
There are two types of sunscreen: mineral and chemical. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat before releasing them from the skin. These sunscreens penetrate the skin deeply to dissipate UV rays. Mineral sunscreens do not penetrate the skin but rather sit on top where they work to reflect UV rays away from the body. Both can be effective against sun damage.

Daily use of a chemical or mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher has been shown to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreen can also help to reduce the risks of sun damage such as lines and wrinkles, dark spots, textural irregularities, and more.

Damage done to the skin by UV rays is cumulative. The more frequently you are exposed to direct UV rays, the higher your chances of developing a sun-related skin imperfection. But not all sunscreens are equally safe and effective. Selecting a high-quality, full-spectrum option is essential for optimal results.

We can help you choose the best sunscreen for your skin during your next visit.

Treating Sun Damaged Skin

Cosmetic imperfections brought about by UV exposure can be treated with a variety of non-surgical options. At our office, we can treat non-cancerous sun damage with:

  • Chemical Peel. Applied directly to the skin, peels work to deeply exfoliate, encouraging smoother, blemish-free skin
  • IPL Photofacial. IPL penetrates deep into the dermis to eliminate damaged and discolored skin cells
  • Laser Skin Resurfacing. Laser skin resurfacing removes the top layer of skin to expose healthier layers underneath. This service also stimulates collagen production, helping to address a range of age-related skin concerns

Age, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and more can combine to impact the appearance of the skin. The treatments we offer for sun damage help to produce a smoother, more youthful, and more attractive appearance – often after just one treatment.

If you are struggling with sun-damaged skin and would like to learn more about your treatment options, please call The Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to schedule a consultation today.

What Does LaseMD Ultra Do?

Posted on by Paul Borza

A before and after image of a woman treated by Dr. Greene with LaseMD Ultra
LaseMD Ultra is a powerful, highly customizable laser resurfacing treatment. Dr. Steven Greene is proud to offer his guests this option. Along with all of our other cosmetic dermatology services, LaseMD Ultra may be the right way to rejuvenate your skin and improve your facial appearance.

LaseMD Ultra is a great way to address:

  • Texture 
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Discoloration
  • Age spots
  • Enlarged pores
  • Fine line
  • Acne scars
  • Melasma 

This non-ablative laser offers effective results with little downtime. You should expect your face to be red for at least one to three days. After the treatment, your skin will have a rough, sandpapery feeling. This is the exfoliation process. It will resolve within a week or so. Afterward, your skin will be smooth and renewed.

The treatment itself is non-invasive and tolerated well by most people. You’ll relax and recline in the treatment chair while Dr. Greene gently moves the laser across your face in a specific pattern to reach all the areas. You may feel warmth, or a prickling or tingling sensation as the laser works. The entire session should take 20 minutes or less. You may want to schedule several sessions to get optimal results. Although the face is the most common treatment area, LaseMD Ultra can also be used on the chest, arms, hands, neck, and shoulders.

Most people feel fine getting right back to their routine. Your face will be red, so you may want to avoid social events for a day or two, but it is up to you and your personal comfort level. As the redness goes away, you should begin to see the improvement in your skin, which can last for a year or longer before you may decide to opt for a touch up or another type of skin rejuvenation. 

Schedule Your Laser Treatment

If you live in Seattle or the surrounding areas and are searching for an experienced, board-certified dermatologist to provide LaseMD Ultra laser resurfacing, please call Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to arrange a consultation with Dr. Steven Greene.