Laser skin resurfacing at Clear Skin Dermatology is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses pulsating beams of light to exfoliate damaged surface skin one layer at a time. The treatment is great for correcting facial lines and wrinkles and for improving skin blemishes, like acne scars, pigmentation, and more. Also called a laser peel, skin resurfacing is a great facial treatment for patients desiring softer, clearer, youthful-looking skin. There is some downtime needed with most laser skin rejuvenating procedures. Any concerns or questions can be discussed with Clearwater, FL dermatologist Rachel Epstein, D.O. and our team of providers during your consultation.

Clear Skin Dermatology has three types of laser skin resurfacing treatments that are chosen based on the condition of your skin. Some are performed for milder cases of skin damage while others are more aggressive:

There are several factors to take into consideration when deciding which laser peel treatment is right for your skin. Laser skin resurfacing is designed for anyone who is unhappy with their general complexion. If you have sun damage, acne scars, age spots, lines and wrinkles, redness, or pigmentation concerns, a laser skin resurfacing treatment may be needed to address these cosmetic flaws. In addition, laser skin resurfacing works well for patients who have scaly patches, rough texture, or other irregularities. This treatment is not recommended if you have very dark skin or active acne. Also, it is important to be aware that there is downtime associated with these laser peels. Some patients, depending on the condition of their skin, may need up to 2 – 3 weeks for recovery.

When you have a deeper or more intense laser resurfacing treatment, you may be asked to use a retinoid cream for a few weeks before your laser procedure. This helps prepare the skin for better results. Medication will be prescribed prior to the treatment to help minimize pain for greater relaxation during your session. If your skin needs mild correction, a topical anesthetic will be used to numb certain areas where the laser will target. For the full face or more intense laser treatments, some form of sedation may be used. During the procedure, you will relax in our treatment chair while the laser glides over the skin, precisely targeting the specific sections for resurfacing. You will feel the warmth from the laser followed by cold air from the built-in cooling system. The laser works to eliminate dead and damaged skin cells while also stimulating natural collagen production.

After lighter peels, a healing ointment will be applied to the skin, and you can return home to recover. The skin will appear red, and there will be some irritation and swelling. This should subside within a couple of days, and the peeling process will last over a 3 – 5-day time frame. If you are receiving a more intense laser treatment, your recovery period will last longer. The treated areas will most likely be covered by dressings and the swelling, burning, and irritation effects will be more intense. Medication can be prescribed to minimize these side effects. The recovery time associated with a deeper laser peel can last 2 – 3 weeks. All patients should reduce their sun exposure after their treatment, and apply sun protection frequently. For all peel intensities, the skin will naturally flake, crust, and peel away. It is vital to avoid interfering with the healing process to evade scarring and to protect the treated area from UV exposure. Once the peeling process has been completed, your skin will feel softer while looking clearer, rejuvenated, and younger.