ISLAMABAD: While laser therapy has brought revolution in skin treatment across the globe, well-known dermatologist at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) Dr Mubashir Daha has warned about its side effects.

“People should not go for the laser therapy because of advertisements and catchy messages on social media. They should ensure that they are contacting an expert rather than a quake because in a later case there can be irreversible loss to skin,” he warned while delivering a lecture in the hospital.

“While laser therapy offers many benefits, it’s important to consider a few key factors before deciding on a treatment as not all lasers are suitable for every skin type. For instance, individuals with darker skin tones may need specific types of lasers to avoid pigmentation changes. Similarly, there are possible side effects including redness, swelling, and temporary discomfort. While rare, more serious risks like scarring or changes in skin colour can occur,” he said.

“However, it is a fact that laser therapy is a powerful tool in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, offering effective solutions for a wide range of skin concerns. The term ‘laser’ stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, and the technology works by emitting a specific wavelength of light that targets particular skin cells or tissues. Different types of lasers are used based on the treatment goal, whether it’s to remove unwanted hair, reduce wrinkles, or clear up pigmentation issues,” he said.

Dr Daha suggested that to address the issue of pigmentation and sun damage hyper pigmentation, melasma, and sunspots can be treated with lasers that specifically target melanin, the pigment in the skin. “These treatments break down the pigment, leading to a more even skin tone.”

Discussing benefits of laser therapy, he observed that lasers can target specific areas with high precision, allowing for more controlled treatments that minimise damage to surrounding tissues.

“Most laser treatments are non-invasive or minimally invasive, requiring little to no downtime. This makes laser therapy an attractive option for those looking for effective results without a lengthy recovery,” he said.

“Depending on the condition being treated, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results. Maintenance treatments may also be necessary to sustain those results over time,” he added.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2024