The role of collagen in laser treatments

Posted on 13 Sep, 2011

Collagen is a protein found in humans and animals which forms the main component of connective tissue. It tends to be found in fibrous tissues such as skin, where it provides great tensile strength and elasticity. As collagen degrades, the skin becomes less supple and wrinkles begin to form.

Laser treatments can be used to stimulate the production of collagen in order to improve the appearance of various skin problems:

• Acne scarring
• Stretch mark treatment
• Pigmentation removal etc.

When treating scarring, for example, microdermabrasion is used to remove the upper layers of the epidermis in a uniform way that does not damage the skin structure. This is done to reveal the smooth new skin that lies beneath.

Once the new skin is exposed, a laser is applied in order to stimulate the production of collagen. The collagen boost benefits the new skin, providing it with added strength and elasticity.

Collagen does degrade as part of the ageing process, or as a result of sun damage, and so creating a boost in its production results not only in more elasticity in the skin, but also in a much more youthful appearance.