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Sun exposure, age, and heredity are all factors that contribute to the formation of fine lines and facial wrinkles.

However, there’s a solution. Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser peel or laser vaporization, is a cosmetic procedure used to reveal your skin’s brighter, underlying layers. It’s effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, among other imperfections.

The procedure involves using a concentrated beam of light to zap away layers of dead skin. It is considered to be an effective facial rejuvenation technique that treats minor skin flaws and imperfections. Over time, consistent laser resurfacing treatments provide long-lasting results.

The Laser Options

Laser resurfacing treatments are categorized as either as ablative or non-ablative.

Ablative

CO2 or erbium: Fractionated CO2 ablation uses concise pulsed light energy or continuous light beams. This removes thin layers of skin with minimal heat damage. Though quite effective, this technique requires more downtime for healing than other available treatment options.

Erbium laser resurfacing is best used to remove surface-level or moderately deep lines and wrinkles. It has fewer side effects, and recovery time is much shorter than CO2 laser resurfacing. Prospective patients with darker skin tones are recommended to use this method.

Non-ablative

This is a non-wounding laser technique that targets the dermis while leaving the epidermis intact. It aids in collagen growth and tightens underlying skin for an improved tone and texture. The non-ablative laser system is less invasive, and its downtime is significantly lower than either of the ablative methods.

Prior to laser skin resurfacing, make sure you speak to one of our licensed dermatologists to determine what laser option is right for you. We'll discuss your health history, perform a routine examination and explain the procedure in detail.

Who is Not a Candidate for Laser Resurfacing?

We recommend against patients with active acne or cystic acne getting laser resurfacing.

What to Expect

Generally, laser resurfacing is an outpatient treatment. Before the procedure, your dermatologist preps the area by thoroughly cleansing your skin. The process is relatively painless as your dermatologist administers a topical or local anesthetic to numb the area. We may also choose to administer general anesthesia if the laser treatment is extensive or if it will be performed in conjunction with other procedures.

Usually, the length of the laser treatment varies depending on the extent of treatment. On average, most procedures last between 1-2 hours.

Recovering From Your Laser Resurfacing Treatment

Patients may experience redness and swelling for the first few days following the procedure. Your dermatologist will advise you on post-treatment care and instructions. They often recommend that patients use a number of prescribed creams and ointments to protect your skin. The healing process usually takes anywhere from 3 to 10 days.

Generally, patients will require one to four treatment sessions for optimal results. However, this varies depending on the severity of the patient’s skin condition. Deeper acne scars or wrinkles usually require additional treatments.

If you're considering a laser resurfacing treatment, consider doing it during late fall or winter. This is because excessive sun exposure can affect the end result. However, if you decide to do it during the warmer months, you must avoid sun exposure as much as possible.

At Dermatology Consultants of Frisco, we can recommend the best resurfacing technique for you and/or a combination of treatments that can deliver positive results. During your consultation, don't hesitate to field any questions or voice any uncertainties you may have about the procedure. We prioritize open communication between patients and their dermatologists. We also encourage patients to be frank when discussing their expectations with our specialists.

Choosing the right healthcare professional and treatment type for your skin is critical for optimal results. The professionals at Dermatology Consultants of Frisco have the necessary knowledge and skills and can customize treatments to give the best results. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about laser resurfacing.