LASER RESURFACING



A FRESH, NEW LOOK AND FEEL TO YOUR SKIN



Laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses an energy-based device to improve the look and feel of skin. It's usually used to reduce fine lines, age spots and uneven skin color in the face.


Laser resurfacing can be done with a variety of devices. These devices are divided into two main categories…ablative lasers and non-ablative lasers or light sources.




CONDITIONS THAT IT TREATS...



Fine lines and wrinkles

Age spots

Uneven skin color, tone, and texture

Sun-damaged skin

Mild to moderate acne scarring



ablative



This method uses a beam of energy to destroy the outer layer of skin and heat the underlying skin. This stimulates the growth of collagen — a protein that improves skin firmness and texture. As the wound heals and skin regrows, the treated area is smoother and tighter.


Types of ablative lasers include carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, erbium lasers and combination systems.



non-ablative



This method also stimulates collagen growth. It's less aggressive than an ablative laser and results in a shorter recovery time. But the results are subtle.


An example of non-ablative therapy would include IPL, or intense-pulsed light.



A FRESH, NEW LOOK AND FEEL TO YOUR SKIN



Laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses an energy-based device to improve the look and feel of skin. It's usually used to reduce fine lines, age spots and uneven skin color in the face.


Laser resurfacing can be done with a variety of devices. These devices are divided into two main categories…ablative lasers and non-ablative lasers or light sources.




What to expect during a laser treatment



Laser resurfacing is often done in a clinic. is sometimes referred to as an outpatient procedure because it's not done in a hospital. The staff at InVita Health and Wellness will apply a medication numbs the skin. For treatment to the whole face, your care team might offer you a medicine to help you feel calm or less anxious. This is called sedation.


During ablative laser resurfacing, an intense beam of light energy is directed at your skin. This laser beam destroys the outer layer of skin, also called the epidermis. At the same time, the laser heats the underlying skin, called the dermis. This stimulates collagen production over time, resulting in smoother skin.


Ablative laser resurfacing typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated. When done without a fractional laser, this approach usually needs only one treatment. If you're undergoing non-ablative laser treatment, you'll likely need 2 to 4 treatments scheduled over weeks or months to get the results you're looking for.



What to expect after a laser treatment



After ablative laser resurfacing, the treated skin will likely be swollen and itchy. The skin may change color. The staff applies a thick ointment to the treated skin. You may take a pain reliever and use ice packs. New skin usually covers the area in 7 to 10 days. Full recovery takes at least a month so treat that fresh new skin like baby skin…watch harsh chemicals and sunlight.

During this time, don't use products that may irritate your face, such as cosmetics. And avoid situations that increase your risk of infection, such as public whirlpools. Always use sun protection following laser resurfacing.


The recovery time after a non-ablative laser resurfacing is very short. Your skin might be swollen or change color for a few hours. Use ice packs as needed. Typically, you can resume your usual activities and skin routine right away.



risks



Laser resurfacing can cause side effects, though they're milder and less likely with non-ablative approaches than with ablative methods.

Inflamed, swollen, itchy and painful skin. Treated skin may swell, itch or have a burning sensation. Your skin may look inflamed for several months following ablative laser treatment.


Acne. Applying thick creams and bandages to your face after treatment can worsen acne or cause tiny white bumps to form for a short time. These bumps also are called milia.


Infection. Laser resurfacing can lead to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. The most common infection is a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores.


Changes in skin color. Laser resurfacing can cause treated skin to become darker or lighter than it was before treatment. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation when the skin darkens and postinflammatory hypopigmentation when the skin loses color. People darker skin tones have a higher risk of long-term skin color changes. If this is a concern, seek out an expert with experience in selecting lasers and settings for a range of skin colors. Also ask about other facial rejuvenation techniques that are less likely to cause this side effect. Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is one such option.


Scarring. If you have ablative laser resurfacing, you are at a slightly higher risk of scarring.




InVita Health and Wellness



333 S. Kirkwood Rd. Suite 300
St. Louis, MO 63122
314-394-0950
Monday-Friday
9AM-5PM

14422 Clayton Rd.
Ballwin, MO 63011
636-220-1229
Tuesday-Friday
10AM-6PM