Laser Skin Resurfacing

The timing of your skin resurfacing results can vary depending on the type of treatment. With some treatments, improvements in tone and texture can often be seen within a week, while other resurfacing options may take a month or more to see results as new collagen develops beneath the surface. It’s also common to notice continued improvement in skin firmness and smoothness for up to six months after certain treatments as collagen production continues and reaches its peak.

The duration of the results from skin resurfacing treatments can vary widely among individuals. Those who adhere to a diligent post-treatment skincare regimen tend to maintain their smoother, rejuvenated skin appearance for a year or even longer.

Factors such as skin type, age, and environmental exposure, especially to sunlight, play significant roles in the longevity of the results. To maximize the benefits, following professional skin care advice and possibly undergoing periodic maintenance treatments is crucial.

Maintaining the results of skin resurfacing requires consistent and attentive skin care. It’s essential to protect the newly sensitive skin from the sun by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, as UV exposure can prematurely age the skin and undo the benefits of the treatment. We can provide a tailored skincare routine that may include moisturizers, retinoids, and antioxidants to enhance and prolong the treatment’s effects. Regular follow-up visits may also be recommended to assess the skin’s condition and adjust the skincare regimen.

Individuals best suited for skin resurfacing typically wish to address aesthetic concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and uneven skin texture. During a consultation, we will thoroughly assess factors like skin type, extent of skin issues, and overall health to determine if skin resurfacing is an appropriate solution.

Candidates should have realistic expectations about the results and be willing to commit to pre- and post-treatment care. Those with active skin infections or certain chronic skin conditions may need to consider alternative treatments.

Right after your treatment, avoid activities that may irritate the skin. This can include spending time in the sun, facial massage, or hot temperatures (such as hot tubs, hot showers, or saunas). You should avoid exfoliating treatments until the skin heals. Use a gentle cleanser and hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin comfortable, as treatments can temporarily make skin feel dry or tight.

To prepare for your skin resurfacing treatment, we recommend avoiding sun exposure for at least two weeks prior, as tanned or sunburned skin can increase sensitivity. Discontinue any retinoids, exfoliants, or strong active ingredients in your skincare routine a few days before your session to minimize irritation. Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face for the most streamlined appointment.

Skin resurfacing treatments can have varying side effects depending on the type of technology used. Some treatments may cause mild flaking and redness while others can result in mild swelling or dryness. RF microneedling may lead to temporary pinpoint bleeding and tiny scabs a couple days after the treatment. Across all treatments, it’s common to experience a mild, sunburn-like redness initially, which usually fades within a few days. We’ll provide you with specific post-care instructions specific to your treatment so any effects are well-managed.

Skin resurfacing can be safely tailored for patients with melanated skin. We focus on treatments that are safe and effective for all skin types, and our experience with dark skin allows us to choose options that minimize the risk of pigmentation changes or irritation. Alexandrite lasers are usually used for patients with lighter skin while Nd:YAG lasers, which penetrate deeper, are better for those with tanned or dark skin. Radiofrequency treatments are generally suitable for all skin tones. When we meet for your consultation, we’ll consider your unique skin type and tone to create a resurfacing plan that meets your goals safely.