Recovery after Laser Skin Resurfacing
If you feel self-conscious due to the appearance of your skin, it may be time to consider cosmetic treatment. Uneven skin tone, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles can affect the overall appearance of your face, as well as your confidence. Fortunately, these problems can be addressed without cosmetic surgery thanks to dermatological treatments such as laser skin resurfacing. Laser skin resurfacing improves skin tone and color and can even stimulate the production of your own body’s collagen. All of this amounts to smooth, unblemished skin with a more even tone and texture. Laser skin resurfacing offer dramatic results and requires minimal recovery time. We explain the typical laser skin resurfacing recovery to our Fullerton patients so that they are prepared for what to expect following treatment.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Side Effects
As with any treatment that makes alterations to the skin or body, laser skin resurfacing will result in side effects. During the laser skin resurfacing procedure, an erbium laser uses cool light technology to vaporize old skin cells. While this is a gentler laser than others that may be used, it is still common for some side effects to develop. After laser skin resurfacing treatment, patients may experience any or all of the following side effects:
- Red skin
- Swollen, puffy skin
- Tenderness or irritation
- Light discomfort
The severity of side effects will vary from patient to patient and are likely to be affected by how extensive treatment was, what area was treated, and how large the treatment area was. However, most patients describe the symptoms that are felt following laser skin resurfacing treatment to be similar to the side effects of a mild to moderate sunburn.
How Long Does Recovery Last?
As with the side effects that are experienced, the length of recovery from laser skin resurfacing will vary for each patient. In most cases, patients will want to take between one and two weeks off of work to recover. The first two weeks of recovery are when the skin is most sensitive and when side effects are most severe. Some symptoms (such as pink or red skin) may persist for several weeks, but by two weeks after treatment, this should be easily concealed with a light application of makeup.
Caring for the Skin during Recovery
With a fresh layer of skin revealed and the skin producing new skin cells, it is understandable that the skin will be sensitive during recovery from laser skin resurfacing treatment. In order to protect the skin as it heals, we ask that patients apply a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer and sunblock to the face each day for the first seven to ten days of recovery.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are dissatisfied with the color, tone, or texture of your skin, cosmetic dermatology treatment may help. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about the wide range of skin treatments that are offered by Dr. William P. Baugh. We look forward to hearing from you.
