Looking to even out your skin and get rid of those wrinkles, age spots, and annoying blemishes? Do you feel that your skins tone and texture are making you look old and tired?
Facials and microdermabrasion haven’t done the trick, and now you want something that will take it to the next level.
If you are looking for a simple, safe, non-surgical strategy to rejuvenate your skin and turn back the clock, laser treatment for skin resurfacing may be right for you.
What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser Skin Resurfacing is a procedure where the skin is treated with a specialized laser that uses focused pulsating beams of light energy to remodel and renew the superficial and deep layers of your skin. The end result is epidermal cell sloughing and new collagen formation resulting in brighter, tighter, smoother skin.
There are 2 main types of laser skin resurfacing:
Ablative laser resurfacing: These were the original lasers used for resurfacing. They include carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium lasers. As the name suggests, these lasers ablate or remove the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) altogether. The ablation leaves your skin very raw and red for up to 2 weeks after the procedure. Although the results are impressive, the downtime is significant. These lasers have come out of favour over the last decade.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing: This newer generation of lasers has become extremely popular in recent years and has largely supplanted the use of ablative lasers. Because these lasers are non-ablative, they do not remove the outer layer of skin. They do not leave your skin red or raw and are associated with little to no downtime. Patients can resume their regular activities on the same day.
Who can benefit from Laser Skin Resurfacing?
A variety of skin concerns can be treated by laser resurfacing:
- Age spots (flat ones)
- Fine lines & wrinkles
- Scars (Acne, Burn, Injury)
- Sagging skin
- Uneven texture
- Photodamage
- Rosacea
- Uneven skin tone
- Hyperpigmentation
How is the laser skin resurfacing procedure performed?
Pre-Treatment: You will be advised to avoid sun exposure for a week before treatment. You will also be encouraged to avoid topical vitamin A or glycolic acid creams, which can irritate the skin.
Before Treatment: Your skin will be cleaned and prepped, and protective goggles applied. A topical anesthetic cream may be applied to the skin area being treated.
During Treatment: A laser probe will be applied and slowly moved around the areas of concern. A rubber-band snap sensation may be felt during the procedure. The session can last from 15-45 minutes, depending on the condition under treatment.
Post Treatment: Instructions & precautions for post-laser care will be discussed with you.
What are the benefits of laser resurfacing
- Effective
- Safe
- Relatively painless
- Non -surgical
- Non – invasive
- Little downtime
- Efficient
- Affordable
When can we expect to see results from the laser resurfacing procedure?
Within a few days after treatment, patients notice a brighter, fresher, smoother skin surface. Over time collagen induction and formation coupled with remodeling occur to deliver overall further enhancements in the skins tone, texture, and volume.
How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
HeartLake Cosmetic Dermatology specializes in laser procedures for skin resurfacing, tightening, hyperpigmentation and scar removal. If you are considering Laser Skin Resurfacing, please book an appointment with our dermatologist. The cost of laser resurfacing depends on the specific condition being treated. The number of treatment sessions will also decide on the price.
