Laser Skin Resurfacing
What is laser skin resurfacing?
A laser resurfacing treatment is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a sophisticated CO2 laser or an erbium laser. We use fractional CO2 technology as well as the Moxi laser at Everyderm for light, medium, and deep peeling.
Fractionated CO2 laser technology scans across the face to fix aged skin and remove sun damage. It “ablates” or peels the skin instantly and in that way, the treatment works to replace damaged skin, contributing to a younger look.
Skin heals faster after fractional laser resurfacing because the laser peels away tiny fractions of skin at a time, leaving small islands of skin untouched. This translates to a faster recovery compared to older, less sophisticated laser technology. Typically, healing takes only 7-10 days after CO2, after which makeup can be worn again.
Everyderm memberships include two types of laser treatments for skin rejuvenation.
Level 1 and Level 2 deep laser resurfacing procedures treat:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Uneven pigmentation
- Acne scarring
- Sun spots
A level 1 peel is performed after numbing gel is applied and takes away the superficial layer of skin. This improves skin texture, brightens the skin, and removes superficial brown spots. A level 2 peel requires longer numbing or nerve blocks so that this deeper peeling can be tolerated comfortably. The level 2 resurfacing is better for fine lines, deeper sun spots and to help tighten skin and improve scarring.
What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing: technology and methods
Our body produces collagen naturally, but as we age, production is slowed down. This inevitably gives rise to visible signs of skin ageing.
That is where treatments like laser skin resurfacing are most helpful. Its main purpose is to rejuvenate your skin by stimulating collagen production and renewal. As more collagen is produced, skin looks more youthful, smoother, and tighter. Lighter, maintenance peels are an excellent way to then maintain beautiful skin.
The Moxi laser is a type of non-ablative laser that penetrates the outer layer of your skin at a depth of 1927 nm. In this way, it corrects skin imperfections using concentrated light energy.
Laser peels create controlled thermal injuries. As a result, your body’s natural healing processes kickstart and begin creating new cells and a process of skin remodelling.
At Everyderm, we perform Level 1 laser skin resurfacing by first applying topical anaesthesia (numbing cream). This makes certain that you are comfortable during the procedure. With Level 2, we use oral analgesia (pain medication) and topical anaesthesia or regional nerve blocks for the same purpose.
Skin conditions treated with laser skin resurfacing
Most commonly, patients choose laser skin resurfacing for wrinkles or fine lines on their face. However, laser treatments are a powerful solution for treating many other skin conditions.
It helps in treating acne scars, uneven skin tone, and rough skin texture. It effectively reduces pigmentation, age spots, and improves the appearance of sun damaged skin and stretch marks.
Men frequently choose Moxi as part of their skincare journey. This is due to the rapid recovery and desire of male patients to avoid skin pinkness typical following stronger, ablative resurfacing laser treatments.
Benefits of laser skin resurfacing for the skin
During a laser skin resurfacing procedure, the laser beam penetrates your skin’s surface, drilling tiny holes into the epidermis and dermis. That is how the powerful light beam signals to the skin cells that they need to be stimulated or replaced. Specifically, damaged cells are removed and fibroblast cells produce more collagen.
That’s how new skin is created – by removing blemishes, brown spots, and the outer layers of skin that are not desquamating or shedding fast enough. This also reverses damage caused by years of sun exposure.
The results after collagen stimulating and cosmetic treatments like laser resurfacing continue to improve for weeks or even months. Due to the heat and depth of penetration, laser skin resurfacing usually provides more noticeable improvement in your skin compared to cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels or intense pulsed light.
Laser resurfacing: risks and side effects
When performed by experienced professionals, side effects and complications are unusual after laser skin resurfacing. For Level 1 resurfacing, the laser removes thin layers of your skin while preserving surrounding skin. For Level 2 resurfacing, the ablation and increased depth means the recovery is longer and the complication rate is slightly higher. Complications include prolonged redness, discomfort and swelling. Rarely, infection, dermatitis or pigment changes such as unintended loss of pigmentation can occur.
Dr. Prendergast has nearly two decades of experience in aesthetic medicine and laser skin resaurfacing. He and his highly trained team will choose your cosmetic treatment carefully, keeping in mind your skin type and skin colour. Some laser treatments are not safe for people with darker skin tones or black skin.
Preparation
We will give you detailed instructions on preparing for your laser skin resurfacing appointment. You might need to take antiviral medication or antibiotic medication before your treatment to prevent cold sores or infections. This depends on whether we use Moxi or CO2 for your treatment.
Procedure
Laser skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure that takes 90-120 minutes.
Before we begin, we numb the treatment area with a local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. We can also give you a tablet to reduce pain and help you relax.
Recovery time and aftercare
Your skin may feel like it has a sunburn. There will be some redness, swelling, and stinging for a few hours after your laser resurfacing treatment. We therefore recommend sun protection during the healing process.
Your skin may appear “raw” for about 5-7 days. For Level 2 laser resurfacing you will need to keep your skin covered with vaseline or Aquaphor. For the Moxi laser, vaseline for one day followed by moisturiser and SPF is sufficient. Full recovery can take up to a month if you have laser resurfacing for the entire face.
We will give you skin care instructions for the recovery from laser skin resurfacing. This will include how to clean and moisturise the treated areas. We are always available for questions or concerns at any stage during your healing.
Recommended frequency for laser skin resurfacing
The frequency of fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing depends on the severity of your skin concerns. Some people see results after only one treatment, while others may need a second treatment after 6-12 months. We recommend three Moxi laser treatments for best results as this is a non-ablative laser.
At Everyderm, we create a customised plan for you. The goal is to address your specific skin concerns with a combination of advanced skin treatments.
We also recommend that you wash your skin with a mild cleanser in the morning and night as a part of your skincare routine.
Why Everyderm?
At Everyderm, we pay close attention to your skin needs and provide you with personalised recommendations for every cosmetic procedure.
Our mission is to make it accessible to have naturally beautiful skin and maintain your skin’s appearance with reasonably priced monthly in-clinic treatments.
Plans and prices
Everyderm’s subscription plans grant you access to skin treatments at an affordable price.
They are as follows:
- Silver €159 per month
- Platinum €299 per month
- Diamond €399 per month
Level 1 skin resurfacing treatments are available for Platinum members, while Level 2 procedures are limited to Diamond members.
Before you have a look at Everyderm subscription plans to decide which one is the right for you, start by booking a consultation. Our highly experienced aestheticians will guide you towards the best plan for your skin goals.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Is laser resurfacing permanent?
Laser skin resurfacing can provide a permanent improvement for certain issues such as acne scarring. But it is not permanent for issues such as the visible signs of skin aging. Regular treatments can help you maintain the improvements achieved. That is the value of being an Everyderm member–rather than paying for separate courses of treatments over time, we look after all maintenance skin treatments for fantastic results that get better over time.
Is there only one type of laser skin resurfacing technology?
At Everyderm, we have separated our laser resurfacing treatments into two levels. Each of them takes advantage of separate technologies and is meant for specific procedures.
Is laser skin resurfacing safe?
Laser resurfacing is safe for most skin types. However, people with darker and black skin need to ensure they are undergoing the right treatment that is safe for their skin colour. Our non-ablative Level 1 Moxi laser treatment is safe for all skin types including black skin.
Our team of highly trained aesthetic professionals will guide you through every stage of the process on your first visit to Everyderm
Are you looking for your Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment?
Get a free skin analysis
We want you to experience the Everyderm approach, so we’re offering a free consultation, free skin analysis (measures pigmentation, redness, pores, texture and lines) and a discounted Ultimate Facial for only €69.
Or choose a free remote assessment where we’ll review your photos and let you know what treatments will be right for you.
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