Laser Skin Resurfacing- Aesthetic Medicine/ Cosmetology

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is done to reduce facial wrinkles or lines, acne scars and blemishes. This technique is also known as laser peel and involves use of lasers to improve skin texture and appearance.

Laser skin resurfacing is generally done by a plastic surgeon.

The procedure:

A topical anesthetic agent or local anesthesia is used for small areas and general anesthesia is used if the treatment is on the entire face. Treatment areas include either the whole face or wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, or forehead. Treatment for small areas may take around 30 to 45 minutes. And it may take up to two hours for the treatment of entire face. The skin is cleaned to remove any excess dirt, oil, and bacteria. Next, the doctor would use the laser to direct short, concentrated energetic beams of light at irregular or uneven skin. This helps to remove unwanted, damaged or injured skin in a very specific manner one layer at a time. Once the procedure is done, the treatment area is covered with wraps or bandages to protect the skin.

As laser skin resurfacing involves a targeted approach, there are less problems with lightening of the skin or hypopigmentation. The laser beam basically removes the outer layer of the skin which is known as the epidermis. At the same time, laser beam also heats the underlying layer of the skin that is known as the dermis. This helps to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers.  Once the treated area starts healing, there is a formation of firmer and smoother new skin.

What to expect after the procedure?

After 24 hours, patient is advised to clean the treatment area at least four to five times a day. In order to prevent any scab formation, ointment (petroleum jelly) is recommended to apply on the treatment area. Following the procedure, patient may have swelling on the treated areas. Steroids are prescribed to treat swelling near the eyes.

To read about Laser Skin Resurfacing as one of the treatment options for hyperpigmentation, please click here.

References:

• https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-skin-resurfacing#1
• https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/laser-skin-resurfacing
• https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/laser-skin-resurfacing

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