What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat the same issues as a chemical peel, but in a more targeted fashion. The CO2 laser is a carbon dioxide laser that is used for skin resurfacing. The laser is pixelated into many tiny beams that treats some areas while leaving others untreated. The laser vaporizes thin layers of skin with a high-energy beam. This creates a “controlled injury” to the skin so that as the skin heals, it produces collagen as a natural part of the healing process and restores the skin’s elasticity.

What issues does laser skin resurfacing treat?

• Rough skin: The laser removes these top layers, allowing new skin to take its place. This gives the skin an overall softer feel.
• Acne scars: Thin, broad scars are well-treated with laser skin resurfacing as the skin is made to look more smooth.
• Wrinkles: The laser removes old layers of etched skin and allows new skin to take its place.
• Brown spots: The laser removes pigment-forming cells in the deeper layers of the skin to give the skin a more even tone.
• Mild skin laxity: The laser heats deeper layers of skin to stimulate more collagen production and tightening. This tightening is real and improves with every treatment, but is not as significant as one obtained with a surgical lift.

How is laser skin resurfacing done?

First, the skin is cleansed and anesthesia is applied in the form of a topical numbing cream or injected local anesthesia. The laser is applied over the treatment areas. Most patients will feel a tolerable burning sensation that passes quickly. A cooling compress is then placed at the end of the procedure to minimize any discomfort.

Is laser skin resurfacing painful?

A mild tingling or burning sensation may occur during the procedure. While healing, you may experience redness, irritation, peeling, and lightening of the skin. Serious side effects, such as infections, prolonged redness, and scarring, may result with more intense treatments if not done carefully by an expert. These side effects are minimized by following our protocols.

How long does it take to heal?

Different laser intensities have slightly different downtimes. A light laser peel may cause peeling for 1-2 days, while a more intense treatment may peel for a few days. The procedure is tailored to the patient's skin type and goal for treatment.

Like chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing will leave your skin temporarily sensitive to UV rays, which is why winter is an ideal time to schedule your treatment.

Interested in laser skin resurfacing?

If you would like to schedule a laser skin resurfacing treatment at Visage Facial Plastic Surgery this winter, contact us by phone or email.