Laser Skin Resurfacing

One downside of acne, whether you had it as a teenager or are still dealing with it as an adult, is that it can leave behind scars. Fortunately, a number of treatments can effectively remove or minimize acne scars.

Laser skin resurfacing is one option for the removal of scars. Several types of laser treatments exist. The type used at Quintessa Medical Spa is the Erbium laser, which is more effective than other laser options while causing less redness and scarring.

Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also be used to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the skin using a diamond-tipped tool. The dead skin cells are then vacuumed away. The treatment is ideal for minor acne scars. It can also help if you have oily skin and if you are dealing with whiteheads and blackheads at the moment.

Dr. Andrew Campbell and the staff at Quintessa Medical Spa can help you deal with your acne, whether you are in the midst of an active breakout, want a better skin-cleansing routine, or are hoping to have scars removed.

Laser resurfacing can definitely be quite effective at treating crow’s feet, but we have found that in most cases the crow’s feet try to recur to some degree after the healing process has occurred. That is why in many of our patients, we will go ahead and treat the crow’s feet with Botox before and after their laser resurfacing so that the skin will heal as wrinkle-free as possible. Then, we usually recommend that patients consider continued Botox in the future so that they can minimize any recurrence of the wrinkling in that area, but the laser resurfacing itself is quite effective at getting rid of deep lines and wrinkles in the crow’s feet area.

You will love your fresh, post-laser skin and there are things you can do to protect your skin while it is healing and maintain your glow after treatment. Learn more on our blog Laser Skin Resurfacing Aftercare: A Definitive Guide.

Deep Erbium Laser Resurfacing typically only requires a single treatment. You’ll notice a difference in your skin quality and appearance as soon as the skin begins to heal, then more dramatic changes as the skin returns to normal.

The results you are looking for will determine how many treatments may be necessary. If you are looking to improve the appearance of your skin, and prefer a more aggressive approach, one full-field treatment will be sufficient. If you have more specific problem areas with deeper scarring or prefer to vary the strengths of your treatments, your care team will recommend fractionated modalities performed in a series of 2-3 treatments.

Either way, the effects of laser skin resurfacing can last for years.

Many men consider laser skin resurfacing to smooth and revitalize the skin or even the skin tone. We recommend that men do not shave their beards for the full week that it takes to heal from a deep laser resurfacing. If you have a more superficial laser resurfacing this could be as little as 2 days, but I would highly recommend that you wait until complete re-epithelialization or complete healing has occurred before you then shave over that area. Some men feel that an electric shaver is easier on the skin in the first few weeks after a laser peel, while others do not seem to have much of a problem going back to a regular razor.

You can expect regular follow-up appointments with your care team beginning the day after your procedure and continuing based on treatment depth. Mild to moderate swelling, especially in the lips, is common within the first one to three days.

Do not pick any crusts—this is the most important instruction to follow. Use the provided occlusive balm to prevent crusting and dehydration, and follow guidance for vinegar soaks to soothe itching and support healing.

Once the skin has resurfaced and there is no weeping, crusting, or open areas, you may stop the balm and begin using moisturizer, mineral makeup, and mineral sunblock.

Regular skincare may resume after 2–4 weeks, but retinoids should be used cautiously. Expect skin sensitivity and dryness for several months, and use a rich moisturizer. Additional follow-ups are typically scheduled at two and six months. Sun protection is essential throughout healing and beyond.