Laser Resurfacing: Know its Pros and Cons

What is laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing represents a procedure that utilises a laser beam to improve the skin or remove minor facial blemishes by peeling the skin layers. This process is also known as a laser peel or laser vaporisation .
Why is laser resurfacing done?
Laser resurfacing is performed for treating:
  • Scars due to acne, chickenpox or injuries
  • Crow's feet
  • Wrinkles
  • Sun-damaged skin
What are the limitations of this procedure?
This procedure is not the ideal choice for removing sagging skin and stretch marks.
Who is a right candidate for this procedure?
Anyone with wrinkles, scars or any other skin blemishes on their face are ideal candidates for this procedure.
Individuals with a dark skin tone or many acne may not be the right candidates due to associated dyspigmentation (an anomaly in pigment distribution or formation) of the skin after treatment.
How is this procedure performed?
A laser resurfacing can be performed using ablative procedures, which are considered the gold standard as they target the skin surface, the epidermis as well as the dermis, the lower layer of skin:
  • Carbon dioxide laser: This type of laser is used to treat wrinkles, warts, enlarged oil glands, scars and other conditions. Short pulses of lasers are employed to remove the skin layer with minimal heat damage.
  • Erbium laser: This type of resurfacing is performed to remove moderate superficial wrinkles and deep lines on the face, neck, hands and chest. It has fewer side effects in contrast to carbon dioxide laser.
Nowadays, non-ablative laser systems have been developed which focus on collagen growth and skin tightening and have a minimal recovery period, where the treated individuals can resume their routine activities immediately.
Ablative procedures are usually painful than non-ablative ones.
Are there any complications associated with laser resurfacing?
The possible complications associated with laser resurfacing include:
  • Scarring
  • Swelling
  • Itching
  • Infection
  • Dyspigmentation
Next Steps
After a laser resurfacing treatment, follow the cleaning or soaking instruction and apply the ointments as prescribed by your doctor until your face heals.