Lasers and medical devices have become essential tools in aesthetic medicine.
They treat the skin and body quickly and without complications.
At the first consultation, the doctor defines the number of sessions needed, the expected result and a treatment protocol for each indication.
Medical devices for the body and skin
Many devices have been introduced to meet growing demand for body aesthetics.
Cellulite, skin laxity and localised fat bulges can now be treated without aesthetic surgery.
Cryolipolysis
EMsculpt
Hollywood Spectra
Laser photorejuvenation
Ablative laser
Continuous CO₂ laser
Fractional CO₂ laser
Erbium laser
Erbium Glass laser
Vaginal laser
Hydrafacial
Body Hydrafacial
Onda Coolwaves
Radiofrequency
LEDWhat is an aesthetic laser ?
The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In medical practice, a laser is a highly specialised light source capable of emitting monochromatic, coherent and directional light. These properties deliver precise, controlled and reproducible energy to a given target.
How does a laser work ?
The fundamental principle is selective photothermolysis. This means the laser's light energy is preferentially absorbed by a target structure called a chromophore without damaging surrounding tissues. The three chromophores are melanin (skin pigment), haemoglobin (and therefore blood) and water. Depending on the selected wavelength, the laser interacts with one of these elements to produce a localised thermal effect.
This selectivity is central to laser treatment effectiveness and safety. It targets a precise skin abnormality while preserving adjacent structures, provided the diagnosis, parameters and indication are fully controlled.
Dermatological and aesthetic lasers
Laser beams pass through the skin without damaging it to reach a precise target where a therapeutic effect occurs. Lasers have remarkable therapeutic properties, although expectations should always remain cautious.
They are used in different medical specialties : ophthalmology, ENT, gynaecology and gastroenterology.
Lasers in aesthetic medicine
Many lasers exist, and each aesthetic or dermatological laser has a different treatment target and therefore its own indication.
Lasers are powerful tools for combating ageing signs. They have several applications : treating wrinkles, increasing skin density, evening out the complexion and intimate indications.
Treatment must be performed by a doctor. A prior medical consultation ensures appropriate patient selection, provides the necessary information and establishes a personalised protocol.
Lasers and medical devices play an essential role in aesthetic medicine : they provide remarkable results with short recovery times.
EMSculpt
EMSculpt is a revolutionary technology using focused electromagnetic waves to stimulate muscles and reduce fat simultaneously. By producing intense muscle contractions, it helps sculpt and tone the body, particularly the abdomen, buttocks, arms and thighs. Patients may see significantly better muscle definition and reduced fat after only a few sessions.
Ablative Laser
Ablative laser is a powerful method for skin resurfacing. It removes superficial skin layers to stimulate regeneration and achieve smoother, younger-looking skin. This laser type is ideal for acne scars, deep wrinkles, fine lines, skin ageing signs, laxity, pigmentation and skin lesions. Results are often dramatic, although recovery may be longer than with other treatments.
Cryolipolysis
Cryolipolysis, best known through the CoolSculpting device, is a noninvasive technique using cold to destroy fat cells. Fat cells are more cold-sensitive than surrounding tissues, allowing selective targeting without damaging skin or muscles. Cryolipolysis is particularly effective for reducing fat bulges and deposits on the abdomen, flanks and thighs.
Hydrafacial
Hydrafacial is a multistep skincare treatment combining cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydration. Using patented vortex technology to cleanse pores and infuse hydrating serums, it provides brighter, healthier skin without social downtime. It suits all skin types and can improve wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores and dark spots.
Hollywood Spectra laser
The Hollywood Spectra laser is a multifunctional device used for various skin treatments. It is particularly known for gentle laser peels that improve skin tone and radiance without exfoliation and therefore without recovery time. It can also treat pigmentation, acne scars and tattoos.
Vaginal Laser
Vaginal laser offers a noninvasive option for women with various gynaecological concerns, including vaginal dryness, stress urinary incontinence and vaginal laxity. It stimulates collagen production and improves vaginal tissue quality, potentially providing significant improvements in comfort and quality of life.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency is a noninvasive technology using electromagnetic waves to heat deeper skin layers. This heat stimulates collagen and elastin production, firming the skin. It is particularly effective for skin laxity, wrinkles and stretch marks.
What is the difference between an ablative and a nonablative laser ?
Understanding laser technologies begins with distinguishing two main categories : ablative and nonablative lasers. They differ in their mechanism, intensity and recovery.
Ablative lasers remove superficial and/or deeper skin layers in a controlled manner. This triggers skin regeneration with complete epidermal renewal and intense stimulation of dermal synthesis. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and erbium lasers belong to this category. By promoting substantial collagen production, these technologies provide lasting improvements in skin firmness and elasticity. However, they require rigorous aftercare. Recovery effects are substantial but temporary : redness, swelling and oozing, together with a longer period of social downtime.
Nonablative lasers take a different approach. Their energy penetrates the skin without damaging its surface. They produce gradual, controlled heating in the epidermis and especially the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis without destroying the skin. They are considered less invasive and generally involve shorter recovery, often only a few days.
To further reduce social downtime, some technologies use fractional ablation. This treats microscopic skin zones while leaving healthy tissue between them, speeding skin repair while maintaining high effectiveness.
Why might you seek laser treatment ?
Laser technologies now play a central role in treating aesthetic skin concerns. Their targeted, controlled action on different skin components addresses many indications. Each laser technology uses a specific wavelength selected for the biological target : melanin, haemoglobin or water in tissues. This precision tailors treatment to each indication.
Pigmentation abnormalities are among the most frequent reasons for consultation. Sun spots can be removed using lasers specifically designed to target pigment. Certain post-inflammatory hyperpigmentations can also improve. Melasma and freckles are also reduced.
Vascular concerns are another major indication. Chronic facial redness, whether diffuse or associated with small visible vessels, can benefit from vascular laser treatment. In erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, a marked reduction in redness and visible vessels is often observed.
Lasers are also used for skin rejuvenation. Controlled stimulation of skin cells promotes dermal renewal and collagen production. This gradual approach improves skin quality, firmness and radiance.
Certain scars, particularly those caused by acne or surgery, can also be treated with suitable lasers. Effectiveness depends on factors including scar type, age and individual patient response.
How does a laser session work ?
Laser treatment is performed exclusively in a medical clinic, within a medical setting and by a doctor. A prior medical consultation is systematically arranged. The doctor conducts a detailed skin analysis, identifies the concern and establishes a precise diagnosis. This guides a personalised protocol adapted to the patient's needs and skin characteristics.
What are the possible side effects of laser treatment ?
Aesthetic treatments using energy sources such as lasers, cryolipolysis or radiofrequency may cause side effects that should be anticipated before treatment. Informing the patient beforehand is integral to medical care.
Laser treatments can cause temporary skin reactions, including redness, localised swelling, warmth or tingling. These usually resolve spontaneously within hours or days. However, the technology, settings and skin characteristics may lead to more significant reactions such as superficial burns, crusting or pigmentation changes. Darker skin requires particular attention because its higher melanin content can increase energy absorption and the risk of burns or secondary hyperpigmentation.
Cryolipolysis can cause local cold-related effects such as redness, bruising, numbness or prolonged tenderness. Rarely, temporary pain or altered skin sensation may occur.
Radiofrequency treatments are generally well tolerated. They usually cause warmth with mild, temporary redness. However, inappropriate settings or poorly controlled use can cause superficial burns.
Limiting these effects requires thorough medical assessment, careful technique selection, settings adapted to the patient and strict adherence to recommendations before and after each session. Treatment in a safe medical setting by an experienced doctor is essential for effectiveness and safety.
Frequently asked questions about lasers in aesthetic medicine
What is noninvasive aesthetic medicine ?
Noninvasive aesthetic medicine encompasses treatments that improve the face, skin and body without surgery. They use devices such as lasers, radiofrequency and other medical technologies.
How many laser sessions are needed to see results ?
The number of sessions depends on the treatment type, severity of the aesthetic concern and treated area. Some patients see results after one session, while others need several to achieve their desired outcome.
How do lasers work in aesthetic medicine ?
Lasers use light beams to target chromophores : water, blood or pigment. They may heat, break up or vaporise the target.
What results can I expect from laser skin treatments ?
Laser skin treatments can significantly improve wrinkles, scars, pigmentation and skin quality. The skin becomes smoother, more even and younger-looking.
Are aesthetic medicine treatments painful ?
Most noninvasive aesthetic medicine treatments are well tolerated and virtually painless. Some may cause slight discomfort, but anaesthetic cream improves patient comfort.
Are there any side effects associated with medical laser treatments ?
Side effects depend on the treatment and device used. They are temporary : redness, swelling and skin sensitivity. Following the doctor's aftercare advice is important to minimise risks and speed healing.
Who can benefit from noninvasive aesthetic medicine treatments ?
Noninvasive aesthetic medicine treatments suit almost all patients, regardless of skin type or age. A prior consultation with an experienced doctor identifies the most appropriate options for the patient's needs and expectations.
Does laser treatment age the skin ?
No, laser does not accelerate skin ageing. It has the opposite effect : stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity and quality for a younger, fresher appearance.
Can a beauty therapist perform laser treatments ?
Only doctors are authorised to perform medical laser treatments.
What is an aesthetic laser ?
Laser is a medical technology used to improve certain skin characteristics and treat aesthetic concerns. Its light beams address pigmentation, wrinkles, acne scars and vascular lesions. Different laser types suit different concerns.
Is laser good for the skin ?
Yes, laser can be very beneficial when correctly used by an experienced doctor. Treatments can stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, improve skin quality and treat concerns such as hyperpigmentation and scars.
Is laser effective for wrinkles ?
Yes, laser is very effective for treating wrinkles. Lasers, particularly fractional ablative and continuous ablative lasers, stimulate collagen and elastin production, the proteins essential to skin firmness and elasticity. This significantly reduces wrinkles and fine lines, making skin smoother and more supple.
Which laser type is used for the face ?
The laser used for the face depends on the patient's needs and concerns. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel provide gentle skin rejuvenation, while ablative lasers such as CO2 or Erbium are used for deep resurfacing. NdYag laser treats vascular lesions. Each laser has its own indication.
Does laser damage the skin ?
When correctly used by an experienced doctor, laser does not damage the skin. Temporary side effects such as redness, swelling or slight sensitivity may nevertheless occur. Following aftercare instructions is essential to avoid complications and speed healing.
How does the skin look after a laser session ?
After a laser session, the skin may be red, swollen and sensitive, rather like sunburn. These effects are temporary and settle within a few days. After ablative lasers, skin may peel and crust during healing.
Does laser leave marks ?
Laser treatments are designed to treat aesthetic concerns rather than cause them. Temporary redness or slight pigmentation may appear afterwards and quickly disappear. Strict adherence to aftercare instructions and recommendations is essential to avoid permanent side effects.
When should I go out in the sun after a laser session ?
Avoiding sun exposure for at least two weeks after a laser session is recommended to allow proper healing and prevent pigmentation risks. This interval varies with the treatment, laser type and skin type.
How does a laser session work ?
A laser session begins with a consultation to analyse the skin and discuss the patient's goals. During treatment, the area is disinfected and the eyes are protected with goggles. The laser handpiece is placed on the skin and treatment begins. The patient feels tingling or warmth. Session duration varies according to the treated area and laser type.
Articles on lasers
- Does laser treatment age the skin ?
- Is laser effective for wrinkles ?
- Are there side effects associated with medical laser treatments ?
- Wrinkle treatment with laser or hyaluronic acid ?
- Is laser effective for facial rejuvenation ?
- Skin rejuvenation with laser peeling
- When can you go in the sun after a laser session ?
- What happens during a laser session ?
- What is the skin like after a laser session ?
- Does laser damage the skin ?
- What results can be expected from laser skin treatments ?
- Is laser treatment good for the skin ?
- Which laser treatment should I choose for my skin ?