Resurfacing Lasers

What are resurfacing lasers?

The erbium:Yag laser produces energy in a 2,940 nm wavelength which then gently penetrates the skin and is readily absorbed by water, scattering the heat effects of the laser light. It stimulates skin cell turnover and promotes the formation of collagen and elastin fibers that will strengthen the skin. The laser can remove both superficial and medium depth lines, including some scarring. It intensively treats old epidermal pigment cells and promotes the skin’s natural process for creating new, healthier tissue to replace the damaged cells.

How do resurfacing lasers work?

The erbium:Yag laser targets water in the skin leading to controlled vaporization of superficial cells and thermal injury in the dermis that results in collagen remodeling and healing. The thermal injury in the dermis stimulates the production of collagen, which can significantly reduce visible wrinkling and scars. In addition, the water vaporization results in a skin-peeling effect in the epidermal layer, improving the appearance of photo-damaged skin.

What do resurfacing lasers treat?

Laser skin resurfacing is used to reduce skin imperfections. Superficial sun damage, fine lines/wrinkles, skin laxity, brown/age spots, blotchiness, scars and certain precancerous growths can be addressed with the erbium:Yag.

Recommended Treatment

3-4 treatments, 1 month apart

Pre-Treatment:

Avoid direct sun exposure and/or artificial tanning products for at 2-4 weeks prior to treatment. Discontinue photosensitizing topical products (retinol, glycolyic, etc.) 1 week prior to treatment. Skin must be completely clean (no makeup, moisturizer, etc.) prior to treatment. Numbing cream will be applied to treatment area 30 minutes prior to procedure.

Post-Treatment:

• Expect approximately 3-7 days of downtime, which will include redness, swelling, itching, and peeling
• Apply ice initially until burning sensation has deceased, then apply aquaphor for the first 24 hours
• Use only a mild cleanser or moisturizer for 1 week, then may resume usual skin care routine
• In-depth post-treatment handout will be given the day of procedure

Who can use resurfacing lasers?

Resurfacing lasers are not recommended if you have used Accutane use within the past year. Plan your appointment so you can avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks before and after. Resurfacing lasers are not available for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. They are not recommended if you have a history of: vitiligo, scleroderma, collagen disorder, radiation or skin cancer, psoriasis/eczema, or keloid formation. Careful use with melasma and darker skin types (not for skin types IV+).

Supporting Treatments/Products

Botox (prevent/correct fine lines in the upper face)
Dermal fillers (correct deep lines and add structural support)
IPL (less invasive laser therapy that focuses on discoloration)
PDO threads (lift sagging jowls, marionettes, and nasolabial folds)
Skinceuticals CE Ferulic serum (skin brightener that protects against oxidative stress while lightening discoloration)