Skin Resurfacing Calgary: Advanced Treatments for a Youthful Look
What is laser skin resurfacing ?
| Laser Type | Purpose | Treatment Areas | Recovery Time | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO2 Laser | Skin resurfacing, wrinkle reduction, scar treatment | Face, neck, chest, hands | 7-14 days | Reduces wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and sun damage |
| Erbium YAG Laser | Removes superficial skin layers, reduces fine lines | Face, neck, hands, chest | 3-7 days | Minimizes downtime, less heat damage compared to CO2 lasers |
| Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) | Reduces redness, treats broken capillaries, rosacea | Face, neck, chest | 1-2 days | Reduces redness, improves skin tone, treats vascular issues |
| Non-ablative Laser | Tightens skin, reduces pigmentation, and fine lines | Face, neck, chest | Minimal (1-3 days) | Minimal downtime, stimulates collagen production |
| Alexandrite Laser | Treats pigmentation issues, age spots, and skin discoloration | Face, neck, chest, arms, hands | Minimal (1-3 days) | Effective for light to medium skin tones, reduces hyperpigmentation |
| Diode Laser | Skin tightening and rejuvenation, reduces pigmentation | Face, neck, chest | Minimal (1-3 days) | Stimulates collagen, improves skin texture |
What It Can Improve
Laser skin resurfacing is a versatile cosmetic treatment that addresses a variety of skin imperfections, helping to restore a more youthful, radiant, and even-toned appearance. It works by targeting the outer and underlying layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting the growth of fresh, healthy skin. Here’s a look at the many skin concerns that laser resurfacing can improve:
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Laser resurfacing effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles, particularly those around the eyes, forehead, and mouth. This makes it an excellent option for individuals looking to smooth out early signs of aging.
- Scars
Whether caused by acne, chickenpox, or minor injuries, scars can disrupt your skin’s texture. Laser resurfacing minimizes the appearance of these scars by promoting new skin cell regeneration.
- Sun Damage and Uneven Skin Tone
Prolonged sun exposure can cause discoloration, age spots, and uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing helps repair sun-damaged skin and evens out skin tone by removing the damaged outer layers.
- Enlarged Oil Glands
Individuals with enlarged oil glands on the nose or other areas of the face can benefit from laser resurfacing, which reduces their size and helps refine skin texture.
- Skin Texture and Complexion
The treatment improves rough or uneven skin texture and revitalizes dull or sallow complexions, giving your skin a healthier, more vibrant look.
- Birthmarks and Skin Lesions
Laser resurfacing is also effective in reducing the visibility of certain birthmarks, such as linear epidermal nevi, as well as benign skin growths like warts.
- Age Spots and Liver Spots
Hyperpigmented areas, including age spots and liver spots, can be treated with laser resurfacing to restore a more uniform skin tone.
- Non-Responsive Skin Post-Facelift
After a facelift, some areas of skin may not respond well to traditional tightening methods. Laser resurfacing can enhance the appearance of these areas, improving overall results.
Who Is It Not Suitable For?
While laser resurfacing can work wonders for many, it’s not ideal for everyone. It may not be suitable if you have:
- Active acne or ongoing breakouts.
- Very dark skin, as it can increase the risk of pigmentation changes.
- Deep wrinkles or significant skin sagging that may require other surgical or non-surgical procedures.
Laser resurfacing is a powerful solution for addressing a wide range of skin concerns. Consulting a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic expert can help determine if this treatment is the right choice for your skin type and goals.
Side effects of laser treatment on face
Laser skin resurfacing is a highly effective procedure, but like any medical treatment, it carries the potential for side effects. The severity and likelihood of these side effects often depend on the type of laser used, the intensity of the treatment, and individual skin characteristics. While non-ablative lasers generally cause milder side effects, ablative treatments can be more intensive. Below are the possible side effects to be aware of:
◆ Skin Inflammation and Irritation
Post-treatment, the skin may become red, swollen, itchy, or painful. This inflammation is particularly common with ablative lasers and may persist for several months as the skin heals. A burning sensation is also a typical reaction during the recovery phase.
◆ Acne and Milia Formation
Using thick ointments or bandages after the procedure can clog pores, leading to acne flare-ups or the formation of small white bumps known as milia. These issues are usually temporary and manageable with proper skincare.
◆ Risk of Infections
Laser resurfacing can sometimes lead to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The most frequent issue is a flare-up of the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. People prone to cold sores may require antiviral medication as a preventive measure.
◆ Changes in Skin Color
Treated skin may become either darker (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or lighter (post-inflammatory hypopigmentation) than the surrounding areas. Individuals with darker skin tones are at a higher risk of these long-term pigmentation changes. Seeking a skilled provider with expertise in treating diverse skin tones can minimize this risk.
◆ Scarring
Ablative laser treatments carry a slight risk of scarring, especially in individuals with a history of keloids or those prone to poor wound healing. Proper aftercare is crucial to reduce this risk.
◆ Unsuitability for Certain Individuals
Laser resurfacing may not be safe for everyone. It is generally not recommended if you:
- Have taken isotretinoin (a medication for severe acne) in the past year.
- Have autoimmune or connective tissue diseases or a weakened immune system.
- Have a history of keloid scars or radiation therapy to the face.
- Are prone to cold sores or have recently experienced a herpes outbreak.
- Have darker skin tones or are currently very tan.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have an outward-turning eyelid (ectropion).
Skin Resurfacing Before and After
↪ Before the Procedure
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning.
- Stop using harsh skincare products like retinoids.
- Use antiviral medication if prone to cold sores.
- Quit smoking to improve healing.
↪ After the Procedure
- Use prescribed ointments and avoid cosmetics.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Avoid public whirlpools to prevent infection.
- Protect your skin with sunscreen daily.
- Expect recovery in 7–10 days for ablative treatments and a few hours for non-ablative ones.
↪ General Post-Treatment Care
- Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using cosmetics, exfoliants, or harsh skincare products during recovery.
- Sun Protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and avoid direct sunlight to protect sensitive new skin.
- Prevent Infection: Avoid public whirlpools and follow aftercare instructions to minimize infection risks.
Our expert team offers specialized treatments tailored to each condition to help you achieve smooth, flawless skin.
📞 Book your consultation today by calling +1 587 889 6914 . Let us help you look and feel your best!