Laser Skin Resurfacing: What Is It and Is It Right for Me?

Laser skin resurfacing is a non-surgical procedure that corrects skin imperfections like lines, wrinkles, scars, acne, and discoloration. There are many different types of lasers—including ablative, non-ablative, and fractional—and each has its unique methods, strengths, and weaknesses. Because nobody has identical needs or wants, treatments must be tailored specifically to a patient’s desires, which is why there are so many lasers to choose from.

Since laser resurfacing can effectively remove unwanted blemishes, it can not only lead to a smoother and more youthful appearance but can also have a positive psychological impact on the patient, which is perhaps its greatest asset.

Self-confidence is, of course, the driving force behind anyone’s decision to opt for laser skin resurfacing. Over time, human skin produces less elastin and collagen, which is why we develop wrinkles, and this kind of aging can be exacerbated by environmental factors like the sun, which, in excess, can cause permanent damage in the form of sunspots. Persistent acne and its associated scars can also prove particularly troublesome.

Because many skin issues are too minor for cosmetic surgery to fix (and not everyone is willing to go under the knife to correct their insecurities), laser resurfacing is a great alternative for facial rejuvenation.

CO2 Laser

The CO2 laser is the most commonly used resurfacing device. It clears up skin imperfections like wrinkles, dark spots, and acne and acne scarring by ablatively heating the layer of skin beneath the surface (this area is called the ‘dermis’; the surface is known as the ‘epidermis’).

Is immensely accurate and effective for many kinds of skin conditions.

Has a recovery time of around 2 weeks.

Causes only temporary redness in the skin.

Erbium Laser

As opposed to the CO2 laser, the Erbium laser is non-ablative and uses a weaker wavelength to offer more subtle changes. The Erbium also heats the skin to promote the growth of collagen, which repairs and revitalizes the skin and clears up finer wrinkles and imperfections. While it is more commonly used on the hands, the neck, and the chest regions, it is also a highly effective laser for the face.

Causes less redness, swelling, and bruising.

Has a fast recovery time (between 2 days – 2 weeks).

Unfortunately, does not produce good results for those with a darker complexion (in such cases, it may cause discoloration).

Fraxel Laser

Fraxel is a fractional laser treatment that divides the laser’s beam into thousands of microscopic rays that produce microthermal target areas. The goal is to heat the skin and therefore promote collagen growth.

Typically takes under an hour.

Has insignificant downtime of about a week.

Will last around a year.

Is an intense laser that is somewhat painful.

Fosters the growth of new skin that is more vulnerable to sunlight.

Clear + Brilliant Treatment

The Clear + Brilliant treatment, also known as the “Baby Fraxel,” uses fractional laser technology, but it is less intense than the Fraxel treatment and does not penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. This gives a much smoother result.

Uses the same technology as the Fraxel laser.

Has a minimal recovery time of 5 to 7 days.

Is great for shrinking pores, getting rid of wrinkles, and bettering skin tone and texture.

Doesn’t cause much swelling or redness.

Requires multiple sessions to get the best results.

Dealing with your skin can be frustrating, especially when it doesn’t behave the way you want it to. However, there are many ways to take control of your appearance and turn back the clock a few years. If you are interested in receiving the best skin resurfacing treatments available, consider J Spa Med Spa, a top Long Island medical spa. The facility is run by top New York facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, who has helped thousands of patients find confidence in their own bodies. Don’t wait for the signs of aging to catch up to you; call (516) 773-2424 and schedule a consultation today.