How is Laser Skin Resurfacing Useful?

Laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that removes layers of the skin, and allows new skin to take its place. The new skin is supposed to look more youthful. In this technique, a short pulsating stream of laser is focused on the uneven skin. It is also known by other names including laser peel, lasabrasion, and laser vaporization. One can opt for this method alone, or in combination with other techniques to get radiant skin.

This method is opted by people who have scars on the face due acne. It is also used by those who have uneven skin color on the face or those who have a fine line of wrinkles. This method is not suitable for those who have dark skin or acne flare-ups. Another benefit of this procedure is that it helps to remove blotchy marks from the skin to get a flawless glow. If the skin has become rough and coarse due to overexposure to the sun, this technique is useful in improving the overall texture. Even scars and injuries due to previous surgeries can be removed with laser resurfacing method. 

Two different types of laser resurfacing techniques are presently used – CO2 and erbium laser resurfacing. CO2 laser resurfacing is used to treat wrinkles, scars, warts, birthmarks, and also large glands on the nose. Erbium laser resurfacing is used in removing the fine lines of wrinkles. It is found to be effective in removing both superficial and deep wrinkle lines. Usually conducted with local anesthetic, this method is performed on hands, neck or chest. The amount of tissue damage and side effects is much less with this procedure. As reddishness and bruising is very less, skin heals very soon after the procedure. Moreover, this erbium laser resurfacing is suitable for dark skinned people.

The latest addition to this cosmetic procedure is the fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. This technique requires a week or so for recovery and has very few complications.

There are complications to these methods:

• Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation in the treated area
• Activation of herpes simplex virus, particularly when the treatment is performed around the mouth
• Bacterial infections
• Swelling in the face, particularly around eyes
• Scarring in the laser treated areas
• Formation of white bumps in the treated region