Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery and Results

Laser skin resurfacing can have impressive results on aging or damaged skin. When performed by a trained doctor, the procedure reduces or even eliminates wrinkles, fine lines, and other aesthetic flaws. Sun-damaged, discolored, and acne-scarred skin can also be treated using this innovative technique. Following laser skin resurfacing, the recovery involves little risk of serious side effects, making the procedure a safe, convenient way to achieve smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Side Effects

After laser skin resurfacing, certain side effects may arise among certain patients. However, these are usually relatively minor and should fade away in a short time. Common side effects include redness of the skin, swelling of the treated area, and moderate irritation similar to the feeling produced by a mild sunburn. In rare cases involving laser skin resurfacing, side effects such as burning, scarring, or a change in the pigmentation of the skin have occurred. During a consultation with a trained dermatologist, patients will review potential risks and discuss the likelihood of complications developing for them.

Expected Recovery Time

Following laser skin resurfacing, recovery takes roughly two weeks while the treated area heals and a new layer of healthy skin appears. Pinkness or redness of the skin usually lasts longer, sometimes persisting for up to several months. If this occurs, the discoloration can usually be covered with makeup until it disappears. Patients undergoing treatment should plan on being away from work for one or two weeks, though this will vary depending on the extent of their treatment.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Results

As successive layers of skin are removed during laser skin resurfacing, the process results in a fading away of wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes and mouth. After treatment, new skin emerges during the healing process, leaving the treated area looking smoother, tauter, and healthier overall. The same refreshed appearance can be achieved on the delicate skin on the hands and neck, where many of the signs of aging first appear. In addition, uneven skin pigmentation often improves with laser skin resurfacing; during recovery, freckles, sun spots, and other discolorations will begin to fade or disappear.

Are Multiple Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments Necessary?

The number of treatments needed generally depends on the severity of the patient's condition. For light wrinkles and minor skin discolorations, one or two treatments may be enough to achieve excellent results. For deeper wrinkling and more serious problems like acne scars, additional treatments will be necessary. During the initial consultation, a dermatologist will discuss the patient's goals and assess his or her physical condition. It will then be possible to estimate the number of laser skin resurfacing treatments required.

Search Cosmetic Dermatologists in Your Location

If you would like to learn more about laser skin resurfacing, including side effects and benefits associated with the procedure, consider scheduling a consultation with a medical professional. Use DocShop to locate a skilled dermatologist in your area today.