Potential Side Effects of Palomar Fractional Resurfacing

Palomar fractional resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that's carried out to get rid of skin imperfections on the face, neck and chest areas. This treatment option can get rid of fine lines, scars, rosacea, sun damage, wrinkles and other minor imperfections of the skin. Palomar fractional resurfacing uses laser technology to penetrate the skin in order to eliminate different types of problems. There are a series of lasers that are used, and these are approved for use by the FDA.

Understanding Palomar Fractional Resurfacing

Palomar fractional resurfacing is preferred over other skin resurfacing techniques because it doesn't take the patient very long to recover after it has been performed. There are a few side effects that may occur, but they aren't as complicated as the side effects that are associated with techniques used in the past. Before you find out more about these side effects, you need to know how the procedure is performed.

How Palomar Fractional Resurfacing Is Done

The specialist will use lasers to help the skin regenerate on its own. These emit a laser light that penetrates the layers of the skin and destroys old epidermal cells. Once the old cells are destroyed, healthy tissues that are present around these eliminated cells promote quick healing and cell regeneration. These new cells make the skin visibly tighter and radiant. Since there are different types of lasers available, the specialist can control the ablation level based on each patient's unique needs.

Unlike resurfacing treatments used in the past, Palomar fractional resurfacing isn't a painful procedure. The lasers are equipped with a cooling tip that controls the temperature of the skin while the procedure is being done. Despite the positive aspects of Palomar fractional resurfacing, there are a few risks that you should bear in mind.

Potential Side Effects of Palomar Fractional Resurfacing

Soon after the procedure is done, you may suffer from pain and discomfort. This can be controlled with the use of over the counter painkillers. The skin may appear red or sunburned for a few days, but you can use cosmetics to cover this up. Some of the side effects that are associated with Palomar fractional resurfacing are swelling of the skin that's been treated, bruising, peeling and skin pigmentation. Although infections don't usually occur, they may develop in a few patients.

Additional Considerations

You may not achieve the desired results in one sitting. Depending on the type of skin condition you have to treat, the specialist will ask you to undergo four to six sittings. These sittings are generally performed at intervals of two weeks. You may also have to apply lotions to prevent your skin from becoming flaky soon after you complete your sittings.

Palomar fractional resurfacing offers you great cosmetic results, but has to be done by a trained professional. Since the cost of the procedure is not borne by insurance providers, you will have to look into the financial aspect before you choose to undergo this treatment.