Ahead of the 2025 Australasian Society of Cosmetic Dermatology Symposium on March 21-23, we speak with specialist dermatologists Dr Aakriti Gupta and Dr Shreya Andric to debunk laser treatment myths and find out what you need to know before your next laser session.

Laser treatments are more advanced and widely used than ever, addressing everything from skin rejuvenation and pigmentation to hair removal and scar reduction. What are the key things people should know before getting a laser treatment?

Before undergoing laser treatment, it’s important to consider:

  • The device being used – Different lasers target different concerns.
  • The treatment goal – Will a single device address all concerns, or is a combination approach required?
  • Treatment schedule – How many sessions are needed, and what’s the time between treatments?
  • Downtime and aftercare – What’s the recovery period, and how should the skin be cared for?
  • Potential side effects – What risks are involved, and how can they be managed?

What should we look for in a reputable clinic and qualified practitioner?

The most important factor is ensuring the clinic is run by qualified professionals with expertise in aesthetic medicine. A good clinic should also be able to manage any complications in-house, rather than referring patients elsewhere.

What are the main side effects or risks of laser treatment? How can they be avoided?

Side effects depend on the laser used but can include redness, swelling, discomfort, dyspigmentation, scarring, flare-ups of cold sores or infection. These risks can be minimised by:

  • Ensuring the skin is free from infection before treatment.
  • Preparing the skin appropriately, especially for darker skin tones.
  • Following all aftercare instructions, including sun protection and gentle skincare.

What are the biggest myths about laser treatments you’d like to debunk?

“The device is more important than the practitioner.”
The latest laser technology is helpful, but the skill of the practitioner is crucial for safe and effective treatment. A knowledgeable expert will adjust laser settings (fluence, pulse duration, cooling) based on individual skin needs.

“Low-downtime lasers deliver the same results as intensive treatments.”
While some treatments have minimal downtime, they may not match the results of more intensive lasers, especially for deep scars, severe sun damage or wrinkles. A tailored approach, sometimes combining treatments, is often best.

“Laser treatments aren’t safe for darker skin tones.”
This is an outdated myth. While darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), modern lasers can be both safe and effective when performed by an experienced practitioner using the right technology and settings.

What are the most important things to do (or avoid) after a laser session?

Post-treatment care is essential for healing and results. Key guidelines include:

  • Avoiding harsh skincare – Skip retinoids, AHAs and BHAs until the skin has fully healed.
  • Sun protection – Use SPF 50+ and avoid direct sun exposure.
  • Reducing swelling – Apply ice packs and sleep with your head elevated.
  • Following post-care instructions – Adhere to your dermatologist’s guidance, including any prescribed topicals.

The ASCD Symposium will explore the latest advances in aesthetic and dermatology treatments. What emerging laser technologies and trends are you most excited about?

There are some exciting innovations on the horizon:

  • AI-driven treatment optimisation – Artificial intelligence is being integrated into devices to enhance diagnostics and personalise treatment protocols.
  • Next-gen injectables and skin-quality treatments – The focus is shifting from just treating wrinkles to enhancing overall skin health.
  • Multimodal approaches – Combining lasers with transepidermal delivery of active ingredients for superior rejuvenation.

Laser treatments are now more advanced and widely used than ever, addressing everything from skin rejuvenation and pigmentation to hair removal and scar reduction. With ongoing advancements, the future of aesthetic dermatology is looking brighter than ever.