So, what exactly is laser and how does it help? “Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is a device that emits light using a process of optical amplification involving stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation. It’s utilised across various fields, including medicine and beyond. In dermatology, different types of lasers are employed for treating various skin conditions. Each laser type has specific uses based on its wavelength, pulse duration, and target tissue. It’s essential for dermatologists to carefully select the appropriate laser for each patient’s condition to achieve the best results while minimising side effects,” says Dr Shrujana Shrestha, Managing Director and Dermatologist, Absolute Aesthetics.
And although most people believe that laser can solve all their beauty needs, doctors beg to differ. Says Dr Jebina Lama, Aesthetic Dermatologist and Dermatolaser Surgeon and the Founder of The Skin Clinic: “Each laser has its own purpose. Hair removal laser target hair follicles of the skin, tattoo removal laser target pigment present in tattoos, CO2 laser targets water containing tissue for vaporisation. Laser can help to improve various skin conditions where skincare alone is unable to achieve the desired results.”
Initially, laser treatment was used mainly for hair removal. “The first laser introduced in Nepal was Carbon-dioxide (CO2) laser. While laser treatments were initially popular for hair removal, they have now expanded to address several beauty needs,” says Dr Sanju Babu Shrestha, Consultant Dermatologist, Laser & Hair Transplant Surgeon, Swasti Skin, Laser and Hair Transplant Clinic.
Wit advancements in aesthetic medicine, the craze for youthful appearance has also grown immensely. “People have started researching more on boosting collagen to reduce premature aging and prevention of wrinkles. Some non-invasive treatments have replaced surgery in younger patients who might not yet be good candidates for surgery,” says Dr Garima Shrestha, MBBS, aesthetic doctor and the Co-founder of Vitavie Clinic Aesthetic & Anti-Aging, Founder, SHE Nepal.
However, when once it was the dermatologist or cosmetologist who suggested treatments to patients, nowadays, patients are well read and informed and know what they want. “A well-informed client makes the consultation and treatment process comfortable and smooth. Additionally, they have better understanding with realistic expectations,” shares Dr Priya Bhusal, MD, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Laser Specialist of Miracle skin, Hair and Aesthetic Clinic.
Dr Sanju quickly adds, “The patients come with much research and even the health care provider has a challenge to stay updated to answer the queries by patients these days.”
And it’s not just youngsters who avail themselves of these treatments; people of all ages come in, of all genders. “At my clinic, there’s a consistent intake of patients from both genders, with males comprising about 30% and females around 70%,” shares Shrujana. Talking about The Skin Clinic,
Dr Jebina shares, “The female to male ratio is 3:1. Most male clients come for chest and back hair removal and beard shaping.”
While some treatments require only one sitting, others require a couple of sittings which are stretched out over a period of time. “Most of the treatments are office procedures; one can come in, undergo the treatment, and go to work. There is no surgical procedure and it’s relatively pain free. Prices are charged per session although there are package deals,” informs Dr Garima.
Despite the advancements that laser skin resurfacing technology has made in the past decade, the flow of information is still primitive. If you have never quite known how to voice your queries regarding these magic treatments, we have got you covered. Laser treatments today hold the answer to everything from acne scar correction to hair removal. Eager to delve into the basics of these in-office procedures, we got well renowned Kathmandu-based dermatologists and cosmetologists to give us an all you need to know manual. Here’s what we learned.
What do I need to know about laser treatments before I go for it?
Dr Jebina: We screen patients for any contraindication for laser hair reduction like pregnancy, tattoos in the area that need to be treated, keloidal tendency, skin eczema. For female patients, we do screening for PCOS (any associated symptoms for excess male hormones)
Things to consider before laser:
- Avoid procedures like waxing and threading before laser.
- Shave before going for the appointment (a night before or in the morning).
- Focus on skin hydration
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
Dr Shrujana:
- Start with a consultation to assess skin type and medical history.
- Assess skin condition including texture, color, and existing conditions.
- Protect skin from sun exposure with high SPF sunscreen.
- Follow specific skincare preparations if required.
- Avoid medications and supplements that may interfere with treatment.
- Follow dermatologist’s instructions tailored to individual needs and procedure specifics.
Dr Garima: Temporarily stop all active ingredients like retinoid, glycolic, salicylic, and/or lactic acid treatments as part of your daily skin care routine.
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, or fish oils, as these are blood thinners and can increase bruising.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, as both can cause inflammation in the skin. Alcohol can also function as a blood thinner.
Dr Priya: There are various parameters the patient needs to be aware of before opting any laser treatment such as: the cost of the procedure, realistic expectation from the treatment, its potential risks, recovery time and post treatment care. By understanding these pre-requisites and discussing them with your doctor patient can make informed decision about the laser treatment.
Dr Sanju: Before undergoing laser treatments, patients need to be well-informed about the possible side effects, and the importance of post-treatment care.
Which are the most commonly used treatments right now?
Dr Jebina: People are aware of the service of laser hair reduction, so we receive a lot of inquiries and interest in this treatment. Most common areas patients are treated in our clinic are underarms & face (upper lips). Followed by arms and legs and full body laser, including bikini area.
Dr Shrujana: The demand for laser pigmentation removal techniques like melasma treatment has been steadily rising as people increasingly seek effective solutions. As a dermatologist, I frequently employ laser treatments for melasma due to their remarkable results.
Dr Priya: In our clinic, we usually see patients going for laser hair reduction, tattoo removal, carbon laser peel, freckles removal and acne scar treatment.
Dr Sanju: Some of the most commonly used laser treatments currently includes laser hair removal by Diode Laser, skin resurfacing for wrinkles and scars by fractional lasers, tattoo and freckles removal by Pico second ND:YAG laser, skin tags, moles and warts removal by CO2 lasers and vascular conditions like spider veins or birthmarks by PDL lasers.
Who is an ideal candidate for skin laser treatments?
Dr Jebina: Anyone above 18 years of age who doesn’t want unwanted hair and has no contraindication for laser can go for laser hair reduction.
Dr Shrujana: Skin laser treatments are best suited for individuals who are in good health and hold realistic expectations about the results. These procedures are commonly recommended for those seeking to address concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, acne, acne scars, uneven skin tone, or unwanted hair.
Dr Garima: Aesthetic lasers are non-surgical, non-invasive procedures that are safe and effective for most skin types and skin tones. However, a few conditions might make a laser treatment something you should postpone or avoid:
- Pregnancy
- Skin cancer
- Herpes breakouts
- Use of certain acne medications
- Connective tissue disorders
- Active rosacea
- Active acne
- Blisters or sores
- Autoimmune disease
- Darker skin tones
- Deep wrinkles
- Excessive or sagging skin
- Skin that scars easily
What should I clarify with my doctor before opting for a laser procedure?
Dr Jebina: Patients have to understand that laser hair removal is not removal but a permanent reduction of unwanted hair. Maintenance sessions may be required once or twice a year after finishing the whole session. The doctor/ laser technician will follow a checklist before starting the treatment, so medical history or skin issues should be discussed with the service provider before starting the procedure.
Dr Shrujana: Before opting for a laser procedure, it’s crucial to discuss with your doctor:
- Expected outcomes
- Risks and complications
- Pre-procedure preparations
- Post-procedure care
- Recovery time and activity restrictions
- Alternative treatments
- Cost
- Doctor’s qualifications and experience
- Potential side effects and management
- Long-term results and potential follow-up treatments.
Dr Garima: Before getting laser, client’s work and safety are very important especially if clients have outdoor work more, then laser should be postponed.
Dr Priya: You need to clarify certain aspects with your doctor whether laser treatment is a right option for you or not, any suitable treatment alternative available for your specific skin concern. Also, discuss about the anticipated results, procedure details, number of sessions required, potential side effects with the laser treatment, cost of the procedures and the chances of recurrence.
Dr Sanju: Before opting for a laser procedure, it’s essential to clarify with your doctor about your specific skin concerns, procedural details, anesthesia and pain managements, the expected results, potential side effects, any pre- and post-treatment care required, the number of sessions needed, and the overall cost involved, insurance coverage etc. Even patients’ needs to ask the health care providers qualifications to insure they are in safe hands.
What’s coming next in laser treatments?
Dr Jebina: I think we have come a long way, and the technology has evolved a lot. In the future, we may expect even faster working machines and lasers, which can target grey hair as well.
Dr Shrujana: The future of laser treatments in dermatology is marked by advancements such as fractional laser technology for scar reduction, picosecond lasers for tattoo removal and pigmentation issues, and laser-assisted drug delivery for targeted skin condition treatment. Combining laser treatments with other modalities like radiofrequency or ultrasound is becoming more common for better outcomes with fewer side effects. Ongoing research aims to improve safety profiles, minimizing risks like scarring or hyperpigmentation.
Dr Garima: The advancement in getting youthful appearance have gained more attention. Laser skin resurfacing, skin rejuvenation has gained more attention now as everyone wants to look 30 when they are in their 60s. Injectables, collagen stimulators and laser skin rejuvenation have gained more attention and is a game changer for fountain of youth.
Dr Priya: Hybrid lasers alone or in combination to treat multiple skin concerns like skin sagginess, facial contouring and skin rejuvenation are the latest trend that delivers exceptional results.
Dr Sanju: Laser technology may continue to expand beyond the cosmetic procedures, with potential uses in wound healing, scar revision, dermatological conditions like psoriasis and alopecia areata and even in medical treatment
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