Do I need Laser Skin Resurfacing?

If you want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, eliminate acne scars, sun spots, or tattoos, laser skin resurfacing may be for you. The virtually painless procedure produces permanent results, improving your appearance and boosting your confidence.

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is procedure performed by a medical professional that uses IPL (intense pulsed light) laser therapy to target specific areas of concern on the face or body to help improve skin texture and appearance. The IPL heats the lower layers of the dermis, promoting collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin.

Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Right for me?

If you have age, sun, or acne-related skin care concerns, then laser skin resurfacing could be right for you. Specifically, laser skin resurfacing treats age spots, acne scars, crow’s feet, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, tattoos, and warts.

Your natural skin tone can also determine if this procedure is the best for you, as people with lighter skin tones are often good candidates since they carry a reduced risk of hyperpigmentation.

Prior to the Procedure

The doctor will prepare you with pre-care instructions to reduce your risk of complications or infection. Depending on your medical history, you may be prescribed a precautionary antibiotic or antiviral medication. It is recommended to quit smoking at least two weeks prior to the procedure.

Acne medications, such as Accutane or isotretinoin, may increase your risk of scarring. Always talk with our doctors about any medical conditions you may have and all medications that you take, including over-the-counter drugs like Aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding post-procedure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

During the procedure, the doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area to reduce pain and make you more comfortable. If a large area is being treated, we may suggest a sedative or painkiller. Next, the skin is cleansed to remove any excess bacteria, dirt, and oil. Then we will begin treatment, slowly moving the IPL laser around the designated area of skin. Finally, the doctor will dress the treatment area in wraps to help protect the skin and accelerate healing. Depending on your goals, you may need 4-6 sessions, spaced 4 weeks apart.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

Like other cosmetic procedures, laser skin resurfacing does pose the risk of possible side effects including bumps, burning, hyperpigmentation, infection, rash, redness, scarring, and swelling. During recovery, your skin may be extremely red and scab over. Slight peeling is common, but ice packs can be used to decrease swelling and increase comfort.

Laser skin resurfacing is not classified as a surgery, and you can leave immediately following the procedure. Still, downtime is necessary to ensure your skin heals properly to achieve desired results. Healing usually takes between 3-10 days, depending on the size of the treatment area. Avoid extended sun exposure and known areas of germs - such as the gym - for 1-2 weeks afterward to decrease the risk of infection.

Laser skin resurfacing is a non-invasive, relatively painless procedure using IPL laser therapy to target specific areas of the skin that need improvement. Laser skin resurfacing poses limited size effects and risk, but may require multiple treatments to achieve your desired results. If you think that laser skin resurfacing may be for you, contact Calvine Medical Aesthetics today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to answer any questions that you may have and are dedicated to providing the best possible service for you!