Modern laser resurfacing treatments offer a highly effective way to improve skin condition using focused light energy. These treatments address issues caused by acne, aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, scars, and poor nutrition. Laser resurfacing is safe, efficient, and requires minimal downtime.

Less invasive than dermabrasion or chemical peels, laser treatments remove damaged skin layers and rejuvenate appearance. While primarily used on the face, these treatments can also be applied to other areas of the body.

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Reasons for Laser Resurfacing

Patients seek laser resurfacing for many reasons, including:

  • Reducing wrinkles and stretch marks
  • Minimizing scars
  • Rejuvenating skin after a facelift
  • Removing age spots and spider veins
  • Repairing sun-damaged skin
  • Improving skin tone affected by melasma or other conditions
  • Removing warts and birthmarks
  • Shrinking enlarged pores
  • Eliminating tattoos

Types of Laser Resurfacing

There are two main types of laser resurfacing treatments: ablative and non-ablative.

Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Ablative lasers penetrate deeper by removing a layer of skin, creating a controlled wound. This results in more dramatic improvements with fewer sessions but requires a longer healing period.

Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Non-ablative lasers do not remove skin layers but stimulate collagen growth and tighten the skin underneath. These treatments are gentler, have less downtime, but may need more sessions and offer subtler results.

Non-ablative resurfacing is often preferred for less extensive skin repair and is safer for people of color, as ablative treatments carry a higher risk of pigmentation changes.

Fractional Ablative Laser Resurfacing

A newer form of ablative resurfacing, fractional lasers target small areas with microbeams, peeling away tiny sections of skin. This technique delivers noticeable results with less downtime than traditional ablative methods, balancing effectiveness and recovery.

The Laser Resurfacing Procedure

Laser resurfacing is usually performed in a doctor’s office with topical anesthesia. Treatment time ranges from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the size and location of the area. Some patients see significant improvement after a single session, especially with ablative lasers, but multiple sessions or touch-ups may be necessary.

Risks of Laser Resurfacing

Though generally safe, laser resurfacing carries some risks, including:

  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Redness
  • Changes in skin pigmentation
  • Acne
  • Milia (tiny white bumps)

Recovery After Laser Resurfacing

Recovery varies by treatment type and individual skin. Sun protection is essential during healing.

Non-Ablative Recovery

Patients may experience redness and peeling for several days. Ice packs can help ease discomfort. Normal activities can be resumed quickly, and makeup may be used to cover redness.

Ablative Recovery

The treated skin will appear raw, swollen, and itchy. Fluid discharge and crusting are common. After treatment, ointments and dressings are applied, and patients may be advised to keep the head elevated if the face is treated. Pain relief and ice packs can reduce symptoms. Picking at scabs should be avoided to prevent scarring. Healing typically takes one to two weeks.

During recovery, patients should avoid strenuous activity and gently clean the area with water, saline, or dilute acetic acid to promote healing. Many prefer to rest at home until the skin begins to heal. Once healed, makeup can conceal residual redness, which may persist for months. Final results include improved skin tone, texture, and firmness.