Laser skin resurfacing is a popular and effective treatment for rejuvenating your skin and can address a wide range of common skin concerns, including wrinkles, dark spots, rough skin texture, acne scars and more. If you’re thinking about booking your first laser resurfacing session, there are a few things you should know to help you decide if this buzzy skin treatment could be right for you.
1. Laser Skin Resurfacing Can Have Prejuvenation Benefits
Laser skin resurfacing is not only beneficial for treating existing skin conditions, but it can also offer prejuvenation benefits. By stimulating collagen production within your skin, laser treatments can help to prevent future signs of aging while simultaneously addressing your current skin concerns. This is one of the many benefits of laser skin resurfacing that make it so popular.
2. There’s More Than One Type of Laser
There are a number of types of lasers used for laser skin resurfacing and rejuvenation. The best laser for you will depend on your skin type and tone, as well as your specific needs and goals. Here at Simply Smooth Laser Center, we offer CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatments, which are known for providing dramatic results and treating many of the most common skin concerns, ranging from deep wrinkles and creases to acne scars and sun damage.
Additionally, we offer even gentler lasers like PicoWay® Resolve and GentleMax Pro®, which, while they are not specifically used for laser surfacing, are gentle on the skin and can also treat a number of skin problems, such as scars, freckles and melasma. Our experienced laser specialists will assess your skin, listen to your cosmetic goals and help you choose the best type of laser for your individual needs.
3. Multiple Treatments May or May Not Be Needed
Another benefit of CO2 laser resurfacing is that it can often yield optimal results after a single treatment session. However, in some cases, you may see the best results after a series of 2 or 3 treatments, each spaced several weeks apart. The exact number of treatments you will need depends on your skin condition and desired results. At your consultation, our team can provide you with a customized laser resurfacing plan and a more accurate estimate of the number of treatments you may need.
4. You’ll Need to Stay out of the Sun before and after Laser Resurfacing
Laser treatments can make your skin more sensitive to sun damage, and sun exposure can impede the healing process. Plan your treatments around when it might be easiest for you to stay indoors. Some people choose to start laser treatments in the warmer summer months when it is very hot in Florida and they prefer to beat the heat inside. For others, waiting until late-summer or early-fall after summer vacations may be more practical.
5. You Might Have to Pause Certain Medications or Skincare
Your laser specialist may recommend that you pause the use of certain medications or skincare products for a few weeks before and after laser resurfacing. Accutane, a prescription acne medication, should not be used while getting laser treatments. Skincare products like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids and other chemical exfoliants should also be put on pause to avoid irritation and sensitivity.
Always let your laser specialist know about any medications or skincare products you are using to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
For more information about laser skin resurfacing and to see if it could be right for you, call our Tampa office at 813-877-8067 or contact us online today.
Author: Caroll Delo, CCE, CME
Lead aesthetician and co-owner of Simply Smooth, Caroll Delo has over a decade of experience in cosmetic surgery, laser treatments, and medical grade skincare services. Her vast knowledge in cosmetic medicine helps make sure that every man and woman who enters our doors receives top-quality care and expertise.