Lasers can restore youthful radiance to your skin, but if you want to enjoy the transformative results, a little patience is needed. While lasers are highly effective, your skin will need a bit of extra TLC during the recovery process. This guide will help you care for your skin after laser resurfacing with Dr. Sara Yegiyants.

What Happens to the Skin During a Laser Treatment?

To understand the recovery process after laser resurfacing, first you must understand what happens during the treatment itself.

Lasers work by ablation. Intense light is directed toward the skin. This intense energy destroys damaged skin cells while heating the underlying tissues. A laser treatment temporarily damages the skin to initiate a healing response in the body.

After your treatment, the body works hard to heal and regenerate the treated skin. This healing leads to an increase in collagen production which will improve the skin’s tone and texture.

Healing happens quickly after a laser treatment, but the skin will be sensitive. Special care during the healing process increases comfort and helps to improve the results of your laser treatment.

Caring for Your Skin After Laser Resurfacing

Caring for your skin properly after laser resurfacing is essential to proper healing. We’ll provide you with detailed recovery instructions and our team is available if you have any questions or concerns while you heal. The timeline for your recovery will depend on the type of laser treatment you receive. Dr. Yegiyants can provide more detailed information during your consultation.

The skin may feel tender after your treatment. A few simple strategies can increase your comfort during the recovery process.

• Icing the Skin – Wrap an ice pack in a soft cloth and carefully apply it to your skin for up to 10 minutes. This icing can be done several times each day to cool and comfort the skin, but make sure you only ice once per hour. We recommend stocking the freezer with ice packs before you come in for your treatment.
• Over-the-Counter Medications – Over-the-counter pain medications can soothe the skin and increase comfort. Dr. Yegiyants will explain how to use these medications safely and effectively to control discomfort after laser resurfacing. Most patients will not need prescription pain medications.
• Moisturize – Keeping the skin moisturized will help it to heal. We’ll recommend some heavy-duty moisturizing products to help heal and nourish the skin.

The skin will be very photo-sensitive after a laser treatment. Limit your time in the sun, use sunscreen, and cover up when you will be outdoors.

When Will I See Results After Laser Resurfacing?

Collagen growth takes time after a laser treatment. Many patients notice early results within a few days of their treatment, but full results can take several weeks. Be patient as your skin heals.

Multiple laser treatments are often needed to repair significant skin damage.

Schedule Your Laser Treatment with Dr. Yegiyants

If you’re interested in laser skin tightening or resurfacing with Dr. Yegiyants, contact our office to schedule a consultation.