Laser skin resurfacing seems to be the remedy for wrinkles, scars, lines, brown pigmentation, and flaws. The process involves removing the skin layer using precision to create columns of coagulation within the skin. These columns initiate a natural healing process that forms new, healthy tissue. This results in improved skin appearance.
There are a few key things you’ll want to discuss with your dermatologist during your initial consultation, such as any history with fever blisters or cold sores, any use of topical retinol, and usage of tanning beds. You’ll be advised to discontinue the use of anti-aging products (Retinols, AHA, Tretinoin) one week prior to the procedure and one-week post-procedure and may be prescribed a prescription for antiviral medication if you have a history of cold sores.
At the beginning of your laser resurfacing appointment, your dermatologist or provider will begin by removing any oil, bacteria, and dirt with a thorough cleansing of the skin. A topical numbing agent is then applied to the treatment area for additional patient comfort.
The feeling associated with laser treatment is most commonly described as a “warm rubber band snapping” sensation.
The appointment duration varies on the area being treated but generally lasts 30 minutes.
Laser skin resurfacing procedures offer several aesthetic benefits, such as the improvement of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and sun-damaged skin, to name a few. In a way, you get to enjoy multiple benefits, including smoother skin texture and reduced pore size.
While manual skincare treatments treat the upper epidermis, laser treatments stimulate the skin tissue at a deeper level, targeting the underneath cells which enhances collagen regeneration. Collagen improves the skin’s tightness, elasticity, and overall health.
Most cosmetic surgical procedures such as facelifts require incisions that are quite painful. However, skin laser resurfacing procedures are less painful and have minor but manageable side effects. The risks associated with skin laser resurfacing include swelling, bacterial infection, scarring, skin pigmentation (the area could be darker or lighter), and burns from the laser’s heat.
The day following treatment you will want to use a gentle cleanser and apply aquaphor or Vaseline to help with the healing process. Continue to use a gentle cleanser for 2 weeks post-treatment.
Once the treatment area has initially healed, some itching or dryness may occur. This will gradually clear. The use of non-irritating moisturizers may provide some relief.
Use a sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher containing UVA/UVB protection along with a sun blocker such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. After the initial 2 weeks of sun avoidance, continue to use SPF 30 or higher whenever you are outside for up to 6 months.
Skin laser resurfacing procedures are very delicate and require the expertise of a qualified professional. Seattle Skin & Laser has the best dermatological services with top-notch surgeons and medical aestheticians. You can be sure of excellent results that incorporate the latest laser procedures.