What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
If you’re wondering what laser skin resurfacing is, it is a cosmetic procedure that uses focused beams of light to improve the appearance and texture of your skin. Is laser skin resurfacing right for you? This treatment is designed to address a variety of skin concerns, including scars, lines and wrinkles, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser peel, laser vaporization, or lasabrasion, is a cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of your skin. If you have concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, or uneven skin tone, you may be a candidate for laser skin resurfacing. The procedure uses CO2 laser or erbium lasers to precisely remove layers of the skin, encouraging the growth of new, healthier skin and stimulating collagen production for a firmer, smoother complexion.
During the procedure, resurfacing is achieved by removing or treating the outer layers of skin to reveal healthier, smoother skin beneath. The laser energy is delivered in precise beams to target specific areas, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. Laser skin resurfacing works by utilizing different types of lasers, such as ablative and non-ablative, each with unique mechanisms and recovery times. The depth and extent of treatment depend on the type of laser used and the severity of the skin concern. The laser can be adjusted to treat various issues, from superficial blemishes to deep wrinkles and scars.
There are different types of laser treatments available, each tailored to address specific skin concerns and skin types. Depending on the condition of your skin and your desired results, your doctor will recommend the most suitable type of laser for your needs.
Ablative laser treatments, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and Erbium lasers, work by removing the outer layers of skin and are highly effective for treating deep wrinkles, scars, and other significant skin imperfections. Ablative lasers are known for delivering more dramatic results with fewer sessions, but they also come with longer recovery times. Ablative laser resurfacing, while effective, carries a higher risk of side effects and complications compared to non-ablative options, such as redness, swelling, and infection.
Carbon dioxide CO2 lasers are a type of ablative laser commonly used for treating wrinkles, scars, and other skin conditions, offering precise removal of damaged skin. CO2 laser resurfacing uses focused CO2 laser energy to vaporize damaged skin cells, promoting collagen production and improving skin texture, especially for deep wrinkles and scars. Laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat a variety of issues, from the appearance of scars to the reduction of wrinkles and improvement of overall skin texture.
After laser skin resurfacing, your skin may be sensitive and require special care to promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of side effects. In the days following treatment, you may experience redness, swelling, or a risk of infection in the treated area, so proper wound care is essential. After the procedure, keep the treated areas clean, moisturized, and protected from sun exposure as directed by your provider. The treatment area’s size and depth will influence your recovery time and the likelihood of side effects.
If you have a history of certain skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation or keloid scarring, or you have a darker skin tone, you have a higher risk of complications and should discuss these factors with your dermatologist before undergoing laser skin resurfacing.
In this article, we will explore the benefits and risks of laser resurfacing, discuss the different types of laser treatments, and provide guidance on how to prepare for the procedure and care for your skin after the treatment.
Texture and Scar Resurfacing
A dual-wavelength regime:
- Both non-ablative Nd:YAG and fractional-ablative Er:YAG wavelengths combined in a single comprehensive scar-treatment regimen
- Er:YAG laser gently ablates the scar tissue and activates collagen remodelling while non-ablative Nd:YAG improves the vascular feeding system which further enhances tissue regeneration
- High-performance Er:YAG laser ablates the skin more efficiently due to proprietary VSP (Variable Square Pulse) technology, which can be fully customised to attain the desired clinical outcomes in a precise manner
- Nd:YAG laser perfectly complements the Er:YAG laser’s ablative action by being able to penetrate deeply into the skin to create thermal effects without damaging the surface
During the healing period after laser skin resurfacing, patients can expect some redness and scabbing, and it is important to follow aftercare instructions closely to support optimal recovery.
Indications:
- Scar resurfacing: acne scar, surgical scar, scar from injury
- Skin rejuvenation: deep lines / skin laxity
- Enlarged pores / rough skin texture
Contraindications: (if unsure, always check with doctor)
- Pregnancy
- Active skin infection
- Signs of sun injury
- Wound
Interval: 4 weeks
Number of sessions: 4 recommended sessions for optimal results, more sessions might be needed depending on type and severity of scars
Results: Improvement of scar can be seen in 3–4 weeks, with further improvement after additional sessions
Maintenance: Not needed for scar resurfacing; 1–2×/year for skin rejuvenation and texture improvement
Downtime: Erythema and small scabs should be expected on the treated area for at least 7 days
Complications:
- Prolonged skin redness
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Pre-procedure:
- Photo documentation
- Obtain written consent
- Apply numbing cream: 30 mins
- Clean the face with chlorhexidine solution
Post-procedure:
- Photo documentation
- Post-procedure cooling for 15 mins
- Apply topical antibiotic cream
- Apply moisturizer and sunscreen
- Post-procedure advice:
- Apply SPF50 broad-spectrum sunscreen at least twice a day
- DO NOT touch, scratch, or rub the treated area till the skin is completely healed to prevent irritation or infection
- Be gentle when washing your face
- To resume regular skincare products after 48 hrs
- Avoid skincare ingredients such as retinol, Vitamin C, exfoliating products (facial scrub / AHA / BHA) for 2 weeks
- Avoid excessive sun exposure for 2 weeks
- Avoid facial procedures and energy-based treatments (laser, radiofrequency, HIFU, BBL, IPL) for 2 weeks
