KTP Laser
Breakouts and skin imperfections can prevent you from achieving that flawless look, causing you to constantly reach for makeup. When redness and other pigmentation issues prevent you from looking your best, treatments such as the KTP laser can target the damaged tissue underneath the skin. At Azul® Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa, anyone who wants to achieve an even skin tone can schedule an appointment for a KTP laser treatment.
Candidates for KTP Laser
KTP lasers are recommended for patients dealing with unwanted pigmentation areas on the skin, whether they are caused by broken blood vessels or acne. Most women and men can schedule their KTP laser treatment if they have the following concerns:
- Rosacea
- Spider veins
- Broken capillaries
- Acne-caused redness
- Freckles
- Age spots
- Sunspots
- Port-wine stains
- Angiomas
While you can get the treatment to control acne breakouts, you should wait until the skin has calmed down a bit. The ideal patient should not have active skin infections or open lesions, as the laser can worsen the irritation. Our providers at Azul® can help with topical skincare to reduce skin issues, after which you can proceed with KTP.
Women and men with darker skin tones might not be good candidates for the treatment, as they are at risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As a precaution, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid the procedure and reschedule for a later time. A consultation with our providers can help determine whether or not you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.
How KTP Laser Works
Potassium titanyl phosphate (or KTP) laser works by using a green light laser set up at 532nm. These target the chromophores (e.g., melanin and hemoglobin), which absorb the light and encourage the skin to heal. The process can reduce inflammation and give collagen production a boost, which is effective for those who have acne and excessive redness.
In the case of broken blood vessels, the KTP laser causes them to collapse and close off, making the blood change its flow route. With time, the new collagen strengthens the skin barrier, reducing the pore size and preventing acne. Since the treatment can also target acne-causing bacteria, it helps manage breakouts so you can get clear skin.
These treatments have a lower impact on the skin compared to red light lasers, so you won’t need anesthesia. Depending on the size of the area or the concern you want to address, one session can last between 15 and 45 minutes.
Recovery after KTP Laser
The KTP laser treatment has minimal to no potential for downtime, with most patients returning to their daily routine immediately. However, you should take the day off if your workplace involves working in direct sunlight. The skin is sensitive at this point, so avoid performing activities that could cause you to sweat a lot.
Right after the treatment, you may notice some mild redness and swelling, like you would get with a mild sunburn. After two to three days, the damaged skin can start flaking off, especially if you have age spots and other similar pigmentation marks. Don’t pick at the peels and let them fall naturally to avoid acne scars from happening. The skin can also feel itchy, but you should resist scratching or touching the treated area.
Makeup should be avoided for the next 48 hours. You can use a gentle cleanser and a soothing moisturizer. Our providers will provide you with aftercare instructions to fit your specific skin concern.
KTP Laser Results
KTP laser offers both short and long-term results, depending on the issue dealt with. Most patients notice a slight reduction in redness within the first few hours, but it can take one to two weeks until the blood vessels are reabsorbed. When it comes to dark spots, the area significantly lightens within five to seven days after the skin has flaked off.
Optimal results can appear within three to four weeks after the procedure. The skin keeps improving in texture within the next few weeks as the cells regenerate. For stubborn pigmentation issues, you might need two or three KTP laser treatments, spaced two to four weeks apart.
Once settled, the results can last from a few months to a few years. To maintain results for as long as possible, avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 30+ when it cannot be avoided. Skincare routines rich in brightening agents and antioxidants can keep pigmentation at a minimum, especially when it’s medical grade. Recurring conditions like rosacea could need yearly maintenance treatments to keep the issue under control.