Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing applies numerous fine beams of laser light to the skin, minimizing overall damage to the surface. As the collagen in the skin tightens around the areas treated with the laser, the skin firms up. This type of laser treatment is advantageous because it causes less damage to the surrounding skin. However, the deeper penetration of the laser light compared to other types increases the chances of complicated healing and scarring.
The healing period following fractional laser resurfacing is a complete week.
After thoroughly assessing your medical history, current health status, and expected outcomes, your physician will recommend the most suitable type of laser resurfacing treatment for you.
What Can You Anticipate During And Post Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Generally, all variants of laser resurfacing are conducted as outpatient procedures, utilizing local anesthesia alongside sedatives given either orally or through an IV. Targeted wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, or forehead can be addressed separately or a complete facial treatment can be done. Here’s a rundown of what to expect during and after the procedure:
The areas of your face that will undergo treatment are first numbed with a local anesthetic. If the whole face is being treated, general anesthesia may be utilized. A partial facial treatment typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, while a full-face procedure may take 1.5 to 2 hours.
Your Face Or The Designated Treatment Area Will Be Cleaned Thoroughly
After the laser resurfacing, a nonstick dressing is placed on the treated areas for 24 hours. You will then cleanse these areas two to five times daily with saline or a diluted vinegar solution (refer to the guidelines below). Following this, apply ointments like Vaseline® or moisturizing creams such as Eucerin® or Aquaphor® to keep scabs from forming. Typically, healing occurs within five to 21 days, depending on the specific condition treated and the type of laser employed. Also read Laser Clinic in Singapore for more information.
Once the areas have healed, makeup can be used to cover the pink or red appearance often noticed after laser skin resurfacing. Green-tinted cosmetics are particularly effective for masking redness, as they help neutralize the color while your skin recovers. Oil-free cosmetics are advisable after the procedure. The redness in the treated areas usually diminishes within two to three months but can take as long as six months to a year to fully fade away. Those with blonde or red hair may experience prolonged redness.
If you have a darker complexion, there is an increased risk of developing darker spots (hyperpigmentation) during the healing process. After the laser skin resurfacing, a bleaching agent may be recommended to help lighten the skin. Your doctor will discuss options with you.