Lasers: The Magic Tool

Lasers are technology’s gift to the beauty industry, as this one group of machines can take care of everything from sagging skin to excess fat. The main laser trends over the last five years have been at-home lasers to treat aging and the addition of lasers to treat patients of all skin tones and with all hair types. We bring you the latest news on companies and lasers to receive the go-ahead from the U.S. government unit, the Food and Drug Administration.

In the summer of 2008, Light BioScience received FDA approval for at at-home laser intended to treat wrinkles. The over-the-counter product dubbed Omnilux new-U using its GentleWaves LED (Light Emitting Diode) Photomodulation technology. According to information on the company’s site, the product is about the size of a large smartphone and can be used with the company’s topical products to lessen wrinkles and smooth the skin. The product is recommended for use every month, but during the first four weeks, it is recommended twice a week for 20 minutes each time. The treatment may cause redness, which will likely fade after a few days. While it treats wrinkles, it will also help sun damage.

For those that still opt for professional lasers, which should be operated by doctors and licensed-professionals only, Alma Lasers received government approval for its Pixel Co2 Omnifit handpiece, which will be used for skin resurfacing. The products boasts a short recovery time of about three days and can be used with many exist laser machines that aim to treat acne, scars and sun spots.

Finally, Syneron Medical received the OK from the FDA to use its LipoLite system for lipolysis or the process of breaking down fat cells. The company says the product will be used for said procedures with lipolysis and other dermatological procedures aided by lasers. This process claims to be less invasive than surgeries such as liposuction. It has two energy settings and pulses repeatedly to break down target tissue and fat cell membranes.

Warning:Trendcetera recommends checking with doctors, especially dermatologists, before obtaining any laser treatments or trying one at home. In addition, increased use of sunscreen year-round will prevent the occurrence of new wrinkles. The FDA recently approved a new sunscreen from La Roche-Posay with Anthelios 40, which is said to contain the highest concentration of Mexoryl SX, the best known chemical UVA blocker developed by L’Oreal. The product also has 5% titanium dioxide, 2% avobenzone and octocrylene for true broad spectrum coverage thanks to the chemical and physical blockers.