What are laser treatments used for?

Dr. Rivkin uses laser skin treatments to treat many conditions including:

• Rosacea
• Age spots (liver spots)
• Aging hands
• Unwanted hair
• Acne scars
• Aging facial skin
• Enlarged pores
• Visible blood vessels
• Unwanted freckles
• Sun damage
• Fine lines
• Birthmarks

What is the difference between Fraxel and traditional laser resurfacing?

Rather than taking off the entire outer layer of skin, as ablative laser resurfacing does, Fraxel laser skin resurfacing uses many very narrow (microscopic) columns of light that target and destroy microscopic areas while leaving healthy cells surrounding the treated area intact. This allows for quick healing and reduced pain. The healthy cells left behind aid in the healing process. Whereas laser resurfacing entails weeks of pain, redness, raw skin and downtime, Fraxel avoids all of these issues, while providing dramatic, natural looking results that the older lasers could never achieve.

What is the difference between Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Fraxel?

IPL uses light of certain specific wavelengths to target discolored cells, leaving the normal lighter colored cells behind. Fraxel targets microscopic areas, and destroys all of the cells in the area, leaving the surrounding cells behind. Fraxel is somewhat more aggressive than IPL. Both leave healthy cells behind and stimulate collagen production.

Dr. Rivkin recommends IPL photofacial to patients whose concerns are limited to rosacea or brown pigmentation irregularities. Those patients with acne scars, fine lines or large pores would be better candidates for the Fraxel laser. Dr. Rivkin also recommends the Fraxel to his patients who are noticing skin changes of the aging face. The subtle skin tightening that the Fraxel can accomplish can result in dramatic skin rejuvenation for these patients.

Will laser treatments burn my skin?

Traditional laser treatments have a reputation for burning and scarring. Dr. Rivkin uses non-ablative, light-based treatments, which work more gently and gradually than ablative laser treatments and carry much less risk of burning.

During your free initial consultation, Dr. Rivkin will evaluate your unique needs and explain the procedure in detail. You will have the opportunity to view before and after photos, so that you will know what to expect from the treatment. After your treatment Dr. Rivkin will instruct you on the best techniques to maintain your new healthy look.

To learn more about Dr. Rivkin’s non-surgical laser skin treatments or to schedule a free consultation in the Los Angeles area, please contact us by phone or email today.