Improve Skin Tone & Texture With Laser Technology
Whether it be due to aging, acne, or sun damage, there are many reasons your skin may display certain imperfections. Fortunately, there are revolutionary technologies available in aesthetics to combat these imperfections and reveal smoother, younger-looking skin. Fractional laser skin resurfacing is one of those technologies. By helping to promote new collagen and elastin formation, laser skin resurfacing may produce the desired skin-boosting effects you’ve been searching for.
Am I a candidate for laser skin resurfacing?
If your skin has been damaged by the sun, you have acne scars, fine lines you’d like softened, or you simply feel you look older than you are, laser skin resurfacing may be a good option to consider. It’s important to understand that this treatment will not alleviate sagging skin due to advanced aging. That condition may require a more invasive procedure in order to achieve a desired effect, such as a surgical facelift. During your consultation, Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker and her staff will explain the procedure in detail to help you decide if laser skin resurfacing or one of our other treatment options may be right for you.
Before & After: Laser Skin Resurfacing
How does fractional laser skin resurfacing work?
Fractional laser skin resurfacing involves using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to remove the thin outer layer of skin (the epidermis) with utmost precision and simultaneously heat the underlying skin (dermis) without damaging any surrounding structures. This process helps stimulate the growth of new collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in improved skin tone and texture and the smoothing of fine lines. It can also help lessen pigmentation from prior sun damage. The whole procedure generally takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated and the condition being addressed.
What can laser skin resurfacing treat?
Fractional laser skin resurfacing can be a very effective treatment for addressing the following skin concerns:
- Fine lines
- Uneven skin tone/texture
- Age spots
- Sun damage
- Acne scars
What is the recovery like with laser skin resurfacing?
Immediately after your procedure, we’ll apply a special ointment to keep your skin moist and protected as it heals. Healing generally takes place over the next 10-21 days, depending on the condition and specific area treated. The treated skin may be itchy, mildly swollen, and appear red for several days. The itching or stinging sensation may be felt for 12 to 72 hours after the procedure, and your skin will likely become dry and start peeling in five to seven days.
The redness that results from treatment most often resembles a sunburn and may last for several weeks. Aggravation of a previously existing skin condition, like rosacea, can contribute to this redness. Rare side effects may include changes in skin pigmentation. We’ll be sure to go over any potential side effects and ways to help prevent or alleviate them at your consultation to ensure you’re aware of exactly what to expect.
What results can I expect with laser skin resurfacing?
Once the treated area heals, you’ll begin to notice a difference in your skin’s quality and appearance. Optimal results following laser skin resurfacing tend to be gradual and progressive. You’re likely to notice the most improvement in your skin’s tone and texture rather than in the smoothing of deep wrinkles. The beneficial effects can last for years when properly maintained with good skin care practices and avoiding sun exposure.
After your laser skin resurfacing treatment, we recommend you avoid unprotected sun exposure for approximately one year to prevent any irregular pigmentation. Any new sun damage may reverse your results.
What’s my next step in getting laser skin resurfacing in Atlanta?
If fractional laser skin resurfacing sounds like a good fit with your beauty goals, then we invite you to schedule an appointment by calling us at (678) 888-3223 or clicking here to schedule online. We will develop a customized plan to address your specific concerns and help you be on your way to a healthier, younger-looking you.