Laser Skin Resurfacing in Jacksonville, FL

Laser skin resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a laser to improve the skin's appearance or treat minor facial flaws.  There are two different kinds of laser to choose from depending on your goals, available downtime and skin type.  

Ablative laser is a wounding laser that removes the thin outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heats the underlying skin (dermis), which stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers.  As the epidermis heals and regrows, the treated area appears smoother and tighter.  Types of ablative treatments include the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, the erbium laser and combination systems.  

Nonablative laser is a nonwounding laser that stimulates collagen growth, which over time helps improve skin tone and texture.  This approach can be done with various types of lasers as well as intense pulsed light devices.  Nonablative laser resurfacing is less invasive and requires less recovery time than does ablative laser resurfacing.  But is less effective.  

Both methods can be delivered with a fractional laser, which leaves microscopic columns of untreated tissue throughout the treatment area.  Fractional lasers were developed to shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of side effects.  

Laser resurfacing can decrease the appearance of fine lines in the face.  It can also treat loss of skin tone and improve your complexion if you have scars or sun damage.  Laser resurfacing can't eliminate excessive or sagging skin.  Understanding the specific techniques, risks and possible results can help you decide if laser resurfacing is right for you.  

CO2 ablative lasers are fractionated laser beams that create tiny microscopic holes in the epidermis to initiate the process of skin remodeling with the production of collagen.   Collagen is an essential part of the human body. It produces structure and support for the skin, organs, and other vital components of the body. Fractionated lasers cause thermal injury in the dermis, and that signals the body to produce more collagen in the damaged areas.   Over time, this improves the texture, tone, and firmness of the skin’s surface.   

CO2 laser treatments are able to address deeper layers of damaged skin by removing more of the skin's superficial layers.  However, with more intense treatments comes a longer recovery period.  

All laser skin resurfacing treatments happen on-site at our office in Jacksonville, FL in one of our private treatment rooms. On the day of your appointment, we'll prep your skin by cleaning the target areas to remove any makeup, dirt, and oil. From there, we'll glide the selected laser handpiece along the surface of your skin, directly targeting the areas needing resurfacing. The laser energy works to safely and effectively remove damaged and dead skin cells while also stimulating new collagen growth for tighter, healthier skin. 

Lutronic ULTRA™ stimulates the production of new, healthy skin through non-ablative, fractionated treatments that are highly customizable to each patients' needs. Patients attain glowing, radiant skin with significantly less downtime when compared to other traditional laser skin resurfacing treatments. This laser procedure is highly effective in the treatment of actinic keratosis, pigmented lesions, and freckles. It can be used on the face, neck, and decollete. 

Following your treatment, we'll smooth a specialized ointment over your treated skin for optimal healing, and then you'll be free to go home. Your skin will likely look red, and you may experience some mild irritation or swelling, but these side effects should subside within 24 – 48 hours. Since this procedure targets damaged skin cells to promote new skin growth, your skin will begin to flake, crust, and peel off. This process generally lasts 3 – 5 days. During this time, patients should reduce their sun exposure and use sun protection throughout the day to guard their skin. After the peeling stops, the treated skin will feel softer while appearing rejuvenated, clearer, and younger.

Laser skin resurfacing offers amazing results if you want to attain younger, smoother-looking skin. If you're considering laser skin resurfacing and want to learn more, call Dermatology Southeast in Jacksonville, FL today. Our team will be happy to set up a skin consultation for you so we can answer all of your questions and build a custom treatment plan for you. We look forward to helping you achieve tighter, healthier skin.