Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs

If you’ve been considering laser skin resurfacing, you probably want to know more about what to expect. Here, we answer the most commonly asked questions our patients have about laser resurfacing. You can also request a consultation with us for more information.

During laser resurfacing, focused light energy is used to physically remove sun-damaged skin cells that are responsible for age spots, uneven skin tone or texture and fine lines and wrinkles. The treatment triggers the body’s natural healing and rejuvenation response, revealing smooth new skin below.

The best candidates for laser skin resurfacing have minor skin imperfections (such as freckles or uneven skin tone) that can be improved with laser treatments. Although laser resurfacing can improve the look of acne scars, men and women with active acne outbreaks are not candidates for this procedure. Additionally, it’s recommended that those patients with very dark skin not pursue laser resurfacing, as a special type of laser is better for skin with more melanin.

Before laser resurfacing, Dr. Castellano will evaluate the target area to determine the best approach to use in terms of technique and intensity of treatment. Next, you’ll be asked to wear special protective goggles over your eyes. A certified laser technician will use an FDA-approved laser to carefully pass pulses of concentrated light energy over the target area/s, destroying damaged skin cells at the source. Each session takes about an hour, although this time varies depending on the size of the area being treated and the depth of correction that’s required.

Many patients see significant improvement after just a single session of laser resurfacing, while others may require multiple sessions. This is a possibility that Dr. Castellano will discuss with you at your consultation.

Most people compare the feeling of laser skin resurfacing as equivalent to snapping a rubber band on the skin, although the sensation depends on the strength of the treatment itself as well as your personal comfort level. For those with more sensitive skin, Dr. Castellano may suggest using a topical anesthetic prior to treatment or a local nerve block.

It’s very common to incorporate laser resurfacing as part of a combination approach toward nonsurgical facial rejuvenation. Dr. Castellano will discuss your options with you and come up with an individualized treatment plan to give you the best results. This may include BOTOX® Cosmetic injections to smooth away dynamic wrinkles, injectable fillers for deeper lines and volume loss and other medical-grade skin care services like chemical peels and facials. Additionally, since laser resurfacing cannot correct loose or hanging skin, it’s not uncommon to combine laser treatments with a traditional facelift.

Because laser resurfacing creates a controlled wound in order to promote a healing response, patients should expect a recovery period before final results are seen. A mild treatment may show results as early as a week after treatment, with only minor redness remaining, while a deeper level of correction may require a few weeks to see the best results. It’s important to follow Dr. Castellano’s post-treatment instructions during the recovery process.