Not ready for plastic surgery or filler? A laser treatment may be the place to start, and it can make a world of difference in the appearance of the skin. One laser treatment in particular, the TRL laser, can be customized to suit your skin’s needs, and even the time you can dedicate for recovery. Here’s what to know about this multitasking treatment, which doctors love using to treat a variety of skin concerns.
Featured Experts
- Tina Alster, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, D.C.
- May Hall, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hopkinsville, KY
What Is a TRL laser?
“TRL stands for Tunable Resurfacing Laser,” says Hopkinsville, KY dermatologist May Hall, MD, noting that the technology is dual-surfacing erbium YAG (Er:YAG). “It is a more customized procedure that stimulates new collagen production to help improve the appearance of aging skin.” Washington, D.C. dermatologist Tina Alster, MD explains that “essentially, the laser can be calibrated for use at different energies to treat varying depths—or layers—of skin. Sciton initially introduced the Contour system [TRL laser] in 2007, but a host of other companies have followed suit over the years.”
Who Is This Laser Treatment Best For?
“The TRL laser is used for skin resurfacing. However, the technology allows the operator to control the depth of treatment depending on your desired outcome,” Dr. Hall explains. “For instance, it can be used to more precisely treat deep wrinkles, particularly those around the mouth and eyes. It can also be used to treat acne scars, sun damage and pre-cancerous lesions, as well as irregular skin texture.” Dr. Alster adds that it can be used on other types of scars as well, such as those from trauma or surgery.
According to Dr. Hall, a TRL laser can be a very effective modality to reverse some signs of aging skin. “Much like any laser treatment, however, it is not so much about the machine as it is about the operator,” she says. “Seek out a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who is skilled in their particular device. They will also help you better understand if you are a good candidate for this laser treatment.”
And when it comes to candidacy for a TRL laser specifically, this treatment can benefit nearly all skin types. However, Dr. Alster says TRL treatments should be avoided in individuals with recent sun exposure or active skin infections like cold sores. Additionally, she notes that “the best clinical results are obtained when the patient’s skin has been adequately prepped with a good skin-care regimen and the patient has avoided sun exposure.”
Is a TRL Laser Treatment Painful?
Topical anesthesia is applied to the skin before the treatment to minimize discomfort. A local anesthetic may also be an option if necessary. Some form of anesthesia is standard for ablative laser treatments that provide deep resurfacing. The good news is that only one treatment (it lasts about 45 minutes) is generally needed to see results.
What Is the Recovery Like?
“Your recovery post-laser treatment will depend largely on the depth of penetration,” explains Dr. Hall. Generally, patients can expect mild redness and swelling that feels similar to a sunburn. During the first day or two, the skin will flake and peel, and it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions. You may not be able to wear makeup for quite some time as your skin heals. “Deep-level resurfacing may require up to two weeks of downtime for healing.” Using Sciton’s Contour TRL laser treatment as an example, the recovery timeline is as follows: Downtime is two to four weeks, but time off work or “off camera” should only be a week or two. Total healing time is six to 12 weeks. Patients see noticeable results within three to six months.
“Post-procedure, it is important to practice strict sun protection to help reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Hall. “Diligent use of sunscreen that your doctor’s office recommends will help prevent complications from your procedure. It will also help protect your skin from further sun damage and premature aging.”
