Laser Skin Resurfacing — Procedure Guide, Recovery & Risks | MyMedicPlus

Laser skin resurfacing uses ablative (CO2, Er:YAG) or non-ablative fractional lasers to remove damaged skin layers, stimulating collagen production and improving texture, wrinkles, acne scars, and pigmentation.

Indicated for facial wrinkles, acne scars, surgical scars, sun damage, age spots, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. Best suited for Fitzpatrick skin types I–III; caution is required in darker skin.

The face is cleansed and topical anaesthetic applied 30–60 minutes prior. The laser ablates or heats targeted skin columns. Depth and density are adjusted per area. Total treatment takes 30–90 minutes.

Ablative CO2 resurfacing requires 7–21 days of healing with oozing and crusting. Fractional non-ablative lasers allow return to activities in 3–5 days. Strict sun avoidance and moisturisation are essential.

Risks include prolonged redness (2–3 months for ablative), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin types, herpes reactivation, infection, scarring, and milia formation in treated pores.

Ablative CO2 resurfacing shows 50–80% improvement in wrinkles and scars lasting 5+ years. Fractional lasers offer 20–50% improvement with lower downtime. Multiple sessions may enhance non-ablative results.