Laser skin resurfacing

If you want to improve your skin’s look and texture, or if you’re dealing with certain skin conditions, laser skin resurfacing can be a great option. This minimally invasive treatment works by removing damaged outer layers of skin and stimulating the growth of new, healthier skin cells. This results in a smoother, tighter, and more even complexion.

Laser skin resurfacing is typically provided by general or cosmetic dermatologists or specialized centers with trained staff and advanced equipment. Penn Medicine specialists offer this treatment for a range of medical and cosmetic skin concerns, including sun damage, fine lines, lesions, and scars.

Your provider may recommend this treatment if you have:

• Fine lines or wrinkles
• Sun-damaged skin or age spots
• Uneven skin tone or rough skin texture
• Mild to moderate acne scars or other types of scarring
• Redness, rosacea, or visible blood vessels
• Dark spots, birthmarks, or other skin discoloration
• Enlarged oil glands
• Unwanted hair

Laser skin resurfacing is usually an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and you may be given medication to help you relax. If your entire face is being treated, general anesthesia may be used instead.

Treatment time depends on the type of laser and the size of the area. Treating part of the face typically takes about 30 minutes, while a full-face treatment can take up to two hours.

With ablative laser resurfacing, most people only need one treatment with a traditional (non-fractional) ablative laser. If you’re getting a non-ablative or fractional laser treatment, you may need two to four sessions spaced out over several weeks or months for the best results.

The recovery time after laser skin resurfacing depends on the procedure type. Ablative lasers can produce more dramatic results, but they are also more invasive. Recovery usually takes several weeks and may involve ongoing redness, inflammation, a rough or orange peel (peau d’orange) skin texture, and temporary dark or discolored patches (hyperpigmentation). Full healing typically takes about three months.

Non-ablative or fractional laser treatments have shorter recovery times, but you may need multiple sessions. After treatment, your skin may feel like it has a mild sunburn for about an hour. Lighter skin tones may appear pink for three to five days, and mild swelling can last two to three days.

Laser resurfacing offers powerful ways to improve your skin, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. The best results come from a provider who understands the tools, knows the risks, and tailors the treatment to you. At Penn Medicine, we’re experts in skin resurfacing methods using the most advanced techniques, including ablative fractional laser resurfacing. Our specialists also use the latest intense pulsed light (IPL) technology, a safe, effective approach that allows for minimal downtime so you can quickly return to your daily routine.

Before treatment, you’ll have a detailed consultation with a specialist who will create a plan based on your needs and goals. We’ll guide you through every step to help you feel comfortable and confident.