Since everyone's skin is unique and no two treatments are created equal, some patients see significant results after just a few days, while others may wait weeks for their full results to emerge. Once visible results start to appear, the process of producing new collagen and elastin continues.
The journey of collagen rebuilding after laser skin resurfacing is a gradual but transformative process. Patients can witness immediate improvements in the weeks following the procedure, with continued enhancement over the next several months.
Full recovery takes at least a month. 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.
In general, the areas heal in five to 21 days, depending on the nature of the condition that was treated and type of laser used. Once the areas have healed, makeup may be worn to camouflage the pink to red color that is generally seen after laser skin resurfacing.
To keep the effects of laser therapy consistent, most patients find that scheduling a treatment every 1 to 2 years helps preserve the rejuvenated look achieved with their initial sessions. This supports collagen production and keeps the skin looking continuously smooth and refreshed.
Determining the Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost
A single treatment session usually costs between $500 and $3,000. But it's important to keep in mind that you might need more than one lesson to get the results you want.
Laser skin resurfacing also known as laser peel, laser vaporization or lasabrasion, removes skin layer by layer with precision. The new skin cells that form during healing give the skin a tighter, younger looking surface. The procedure can be done alone or with other cosmetic surgeries on the face.
Individuals up to their 50s benefit greatly from laser fractional resurfacing treatments. Skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles are common in this age group.
Overexposure to laser light can result in skin burns, varying in severity from mild redness and discomfort to more blistering, severe burns. Individuals with sensitive skin or undergoing multiple laser therapy sessions in a short timeframe are at a higher risk of experiencing these burns.
Keep hydrating your skin with a good moisturiser and protect it from the sun. And, if your cosmetic physician or dermal clinician has given you specific aftercare products or instructions, now's not the time to slack off.
While it might take a few weeks (or months) to see the full results from laser resurfacing, most patients will get to enjoy those results for several years – sometimes up to five years – following the procedure.
Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.
Laser resurfacing helps reduce the appearance of acne scars; however, it is not for clients who still have active acne. Patients who have very dark skin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take specific medications like Accutane may not be viable candidates for laser resurfacing.
Yes, laser resurfacing is considered worth it by many patients due to its ability to deliver significant skin improvements with minimal downtime and cost compared to surgical options.
Yes, it is possible to rebuild collagen in the face to reduce signs of skin aging and achieve smoother, firmer skin. Collagen formation can be stimulated through collagen treatments such as dermal fillers which increase levels of hyaluronic acid and promote cell growth for healthy cells.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
Laser skin resurfacing prices will be based on the expertise and qualifications of the person performing the procedure, the type of procedure used, the time and effort the treatment requires, as well as geographic office location.
Day 5 to 7 – Continue washing the treated areas with Cetaphil cleanser. Begin using Cetaphil moisturizer instead of Vaseline/Aquaphor if skin is smooth, without crusts and not oozing.
The lasers cause collagen to constrict, effectively tightening loose or sagging skin. This reduces signs of aging and brings patients a more youthful appearance. By stimulating the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, these procedures promote natural healing that makes for a healthy look.
A typical result is an 8-10 year reduction in age appearance when laser treatment on the face is done on a highly effective setting so that a 55 year old may look 46 after treatment and healing is complete. Milder treatments can be done, but are not as effective.
Fraxel. Fractional skin resurfacing lasers such as Fraxel can be used to smooth skin irregularities in your sixties, eliminate discoloration, and even skin tone. These lasers can also help to smooth fine lines and shallow wrinkles for mature skin.
Risks / Benefits
Acne flares may occur after laser resurfacing. This may resolve on its own, or can be treated with conventional acne therapies. Hyperpigmentation, and more rarely, hypopigmentation, may result in the laser-treated areas.
The average cost of ablative laser skin resurfacing is $2,509. The average cost of non-ablative laser skin resurfacing is $1,445. Learn more about the key differences between these procedures and which may be best for your needs.
Look for moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help lock in moisture and keep your skin moist. Avoid using products with fragrances or alcohol as these can irritate the delicate layers of skin post-laser treatment.