Laser Skin Resurfacing: At a Glance
Preparation	Topical anesthetic cream, with possibly a mild sedative
Procedure	A laser vaporizes the outer layer of skin, leaving a new surface making you look refreshed and rejuvenated
Length of Procedure	An hour to an hour and a half
Recovery or Downtime	As little as 1 week depending on depth of treatment. A pink/redness of the skin may appear and can last for weeks or months.
Pain	Minimal
Results	Fresher, younger looking skin

Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedures

There are many benefits to laser skin resurfacing including:

• Reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
• Softening of deep frown lines
• Improved skin texture and tone
• Formation of new collagen and plumper skin
• Minimization of acne scarring

Laser skin resurfacing can take out fine lines, as well as smooth out deep creases that are a result of age, exposure of environmental elements, smoking, and stress. The areas mainly targeted by this procedure include between and around the eyes, the sides of the mouth, and the surface of the forehead.

At The Skin & Vein Center, we use a new generation of resurfacing lasers — the Active FX (CO2 Laser resurfacing). This laser produces superior results when treating moderate to deep wrinkles, as well as fine lines and uneven pigment. During an initial consultation, your medical history, age, skin color, and condition will be reviewed to see if you are a candidate for fractional Co2 laser skin resurfacing. Other laser resurfacing procedures may be recommended to ensure that you receive desired and long-lasting results.

Preparation and Procedure

There is no required preparation for laser skin resurfacing.

The procedure will last between an hour to an hour and a half. A topical anesthetic cream is applied and allowed to sit for about half an hour. While discomfort during the procedure is usually mild, a mild sedative may be given before the procedure.

During the procedure, a laser is moved across the surface of the skin. The laser emits a beam of energy that heats and vaporizes the tissues of the outer layer of the damaged skin, leaving surrounding healthy tissue unaffected.

After Laser Resurfacing

After the procedure, you can expect to feel a sensation similar to a sunburn. You may also experience some swelling. You will be given care instructions that can include ice, cleansing, and topical products to aid the healing process. Depending on the type of laser resurfacing implemented,  downtime can be as little as one week. Also, pinkness of the skin may be experienced, and will last between two weeks or up to four months depending on the deepness of the treatment.

Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQ