By Cynthia Golomb, MD
Lasers can do more than improve the appearance of your skin. A recent study published in Dermatologic Surgery showed lasers can also reduce your chances of getting skin cancer. The study found a 50% decrease in basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers after a fractional laser treatment. These are the two most common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer, generally caused by too much sun exposure.
The Details of the Study
The study focused on facial skin cancers and how they can be influenced by lasers. The laser tested was a nonablative fractional laser like my LaseMD Ultra. For patients to be included in the study, they had to have a history of either basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer on the face.
Exactly why the laser reduces the risk of skin cancer is not known, but the study proposed the laser stimulates the connective tissue cells to increase growth factors in geriatric skin. With growth factors increased, this prevents or delays the growth of basal or squamous cells.
In their report, the investigators also discussed how laser therapy could prevent actinic keratoses (AKs) as well, and cited various studies demonstrating significant improvement after nonablative fractional laser treatment. This is important because AKs can progress into skin cancer. AKs are the skin lesions most often treated by dermatologists.
Does Insurance Cover Using LaseMD Ultra to Prevent Cancer?
Insurance plans do not yet cover this type of preventative laser treatment. However, making a small investment can decrease the likelihood of sun-damaged skin progressing into precancers and nonmelanoma skin cancer. Each session can range in price from $350 to $500 per treatment. If you spend a lot of time in the sun or reside in a sunny location like Florida, this investment is one to consider.
How the LaseMD Ultra Works
The 1927 nm thulium laser, like my LaseMD Ultra, causes small wounds just below the top layer of the skin. This process allows the laser to treat numerous skin imperfections, including actinic keratoses, freckles, pigment and sun damage. The heating effect from the laser also results in collagen remodeling, which improves wrinkles and skin texture.
In addition, skin disorders like melasma, solar lentigines and photodamage can be successfully addressed with my LaseMD Ultra laser. It is an effective treatment for improving clinical and subclinical photodamage (sun-damaged skin). I suggest multiple laser treatments over time to maintain results.
Protect Your Skin from the Florida Sun
If you are interested in decreasing your risk of getting skin cancer in Florida, I invite you to schedule an appointment at Dermatology Boutique in Hallandale Beach. Then, we can further discuss how my LaseMD Ultra may benefit you. If your goal is to avoid skin cancer, I would also recommend being smart about using sunscreen and can give more suggestions on how to find a sunscreen that keeps your skin safe.
Especially for those living in the North Miami Beach and Aventura, FL areas, it is critical to have a plan to avoid skin cancer. Without a plan, your chances of getting cancer are high. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter for more tips on protecting your skin and discounts on skin care services. Together, we can keep your skin safe and youthful.
