Everything You Need to Know Before and After Skin Resurfacing Treatments

Understanding Skin Resurfacing Treatments

Skin resurfacing treatments have become increasingly popular over the last decade as a way to improve the texture, tone, and appearance of facial skin. Various methods can be used to resurface the skin, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing, and dermabrasion. These treatments work by removing the outermost layer of skin, which allows new, smoother skin to grow in its place. While all resurfacing treatments share the same goal, the specific techniques and results can vary.

Who is a Good Candidate for Skin Resurfacing?

In general, skin resurfacing treatments are recommended for individuals who want to improve the look and feel of facial skin. Specific skin concerns that can benefit from resurfacing include:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation and age spots
• Rough texture
• Dull, uneven tone
• Acne scars
• Surgical scars

Those with fair skin and light hair tend to see the best cosmetic results from skin resurfacing. However, advances in technology have made these treatments possible for those with darker skin tones as well. It's important to have a consultation with a dermatologist who can assess your individual skin concerns and determine if you are a good candidate for skin resurfacing.

Types of Skin Resurfacing Treatments

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin that causes a controlled injury to the top layers. Popular acids used in chemical peels include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and trichloroacetic acid. Light chemical peels using alpha hydroxy acids treat minor skin irregularities, while medium and deep chemical peels can penetrate deeper layers of skin to improve more severe wrinkling and pigmentation issues.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive resurfacing procedure that uses a handheld device to spray fine crystals across the skin. The gentle abrasion removes dead cells from the epidermis. Regular microdermabrasion can help treat mild scarring, discoloration, sun damage, and enlarged pores. This process also stimulates collagen production for firmer, younger looking skin over time.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing directs short, concentrated beams of light at the skin. The laser precisely removes outer skin layers without damaging surrounding tissue. Ablative laser resurfacing penetrates deeper into the dermis to treat severe wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation. Non-ablative lasers target the epidermis only for milder resurfacing with less downtime.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion uses a rapidly rotating device to abrade the skin's surface. After freezing the treatment area, the dermatologist sands the skin to the desired depth. This helps even out deep wrinkles and scars. However, dermabrasion causes more pain and redness than laser resurfacing and has a longer recovery time. That's why laser skin resurfacing has become the preferred method of skin resurfacing.

What to Expect Before and After Treatment

Before Your Procedure

In the weeks leading up to your skin resurfacing treatment, you will need to prepare your skin to ensure the best results. Be diligent about wearing sunscreen daily, even when indoors. Avoid any products that cause irritation, dryness, or peeling. Discontinue retinols, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, and any exfoliating treatments.

A few weeks before your scheduled procedure, your dermatologist may prescribe a retinoid cream or solution to apply. Retinoids help boost collagen production and "prime" the skin for resurfacing. Make sure to follow your dermatologist's specific usage instructions.

During your pre-treatment consultation, you'll discuss your goals and review your medical history. Be prepared to disclose any medications you take, history of cold sores or herpes outbreaks, and any past reaction to anesthesia. Your practitioner will offer detailed aftercare instructions.

What to Expect During Treatment

The specific steps involved in your skin resurfacing treatment will depend on the technique being used. However, you can expect the following general process:

• The treatment area will be cleaned and prepped.
• Your practitioner may apply a topical anesthetic to keep you comfortable.
• Protective eyewear will shield your eyes from lasers/chemicals.
• Your provider will methodically treat the skin surface with the resurfacing technique.
• For deeper treatments, a handpiece may vacuum off dead skin cells as the laser penetrates your skin.
• Your practitioner may apply ointment and protective bandages post-treatment.

You may feel a stinging or warm sensation on your skin during treatment. Your eyes and face will be safeguarded throughout the procedure. Talk to your provider ahead of time if you have any concerns about pain management or anxiety.

Recovery Timeline and Process

Your face will likely be red, swollen, and sensitive for the first few days following more invasive skin resurfacing treatments. Bandages and ointment will protect the treated skin as it heals. Keep treated areas moisturized but clean to avoid infection.

Recovery time depends greatly on the depth of your treatment:

• Light procedures: Swelling subsides within a few days. Redness may persist for up to a week.
• Medium procedures: Face is swollen for 5-7 days. Redness lasts for up to 2 weeks. Light peeling occurs.
• Deep procedures: Significant swelling lasts for 7-14 days. Redness persists for several weeks. Peeling occurs and takes 7-10 days to complete.

Your dermatologist will let you know when it's safe to start washing your face, applying makeup, and returning to work or other activities.

It can take up to six months to see the final cosmetic results from your skin resurfacing treatment. Your skin will continue to rebuild collagen and new skin cells during this time. Follow your practitioners recommendations for skincare products and avoiding sun exposure during your healing process.

Long Term Results

Most patients see significant improvement in their skins appearance after skin resurfacing procedures. However, certain lifestyle factors play a big role in maintaining your results long term. Be diligent about wearing broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Quit smoking, as the chemicals in smoke can break down collagen. Stick to your recommended skin care regimen to protect your skin's youthfulness.

While a single treatment session can provide dramatic improvement, you may choose to repeat treatments periodically. Many patients opt for maintenance treatments every 6-24 months to sustain optimal results over time.

Choosing the Right Skin Resurfacing Treatment

With the variety of skin resurfacing options available, it can be difficult to determine which is right for your needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing a treatment:

• Depth of treatment needed Superficial issues can be treated with light options like microdermabrasion. Medium treatments like medium-depth chemical peels work best for moderate wrinkling. Severely sun damaged skin may require a deeper laser resurfacing treatment.
• Downtime Are you able to take 1-2 weeks away from work/social commitments for recovery? If not, a lighter treatment with minimal downtime is preferable.
• Budget Laser options typically cost more per treatment than alternatives like chemical peels.
• Skin type/color Deeper treatments work best on light skin. Darker skin is at higher risk for pigmentation changes.
• Combination treatments Your provider may recommend combining techniques to optimize results.

Have an in-depth discussion with your dermatologist about the best skin resurfacing options for your individual needs and concerns. Many providers also offer free consultations, so you can ask questions before committing to treatment.

Choosing the Right Provider

Skin resurfacing treatments should only be administered by an experienced medical professional. Dermatologists and plastic surgeons receive dedicated training on cosmetic procedures and have in-depth knowledge of skin anatomy and conditions. When researching providers, consider the following:

• Verify required medical licensing and board certifications.
• Review before and after photos of past patients.
• Ask about the number of procedures performed each year.
• Make sure they have experience treating your skin type.
• Read online reviews.

Reputable practices take time to answer your questions thoroughly during consultations. Beware of discounts or deals that seem too good to be true. Trust your instincts if a provider makes you feel rushed or uncomfortable, it may be best to consider other options.

Preparing Your Skin for Optimal Results

While skin resurfacing treatments can significantly improve skin tone, texture, and fine lines, optimal results rely heavily on the quality of your skin before the procedure. Here are some tips to get your skin in the best shape possible:

• Commit to wearing broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. Sun protection is crucial for avoiding further sun damage.
• Quit smoking. Smoking impairs collagen production and skin cell regeneration.
• Use a consistent skincare regimen with medical-grade products.
• Be gentle with your skin. Avoid harsh scrubs, abrasive cleansing brushes, and overly hot water.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin supple.
• Eat antioxidant and nutrient-rich foods. A healthy diet supports skin rejuvenation.
• Avoid picking at blemishes. This can worsen scarring.
• Consider a hyaluronic acid or retinol product to boost collagen.
• Get monthly facials to deep clean pores and exfoliate.
• Address concerns like acne with a dermatologists help.

Your home skincare routine makes a big difference when prepping for resurfacing treatments. Be sure to follow your dermatologist or estheticians product recommendations, and let them know about any skin sensitivities. Starting with healthier skin supports better outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do results last?

With proper skincare and sun protection, results from skin resurfacing can last several years. However, environmental damage and aging will gradually diminish results over time. Most patients opt for maintenance sessions every 1-2 years.

How much does treatment cost?

Costs vary significantly based on the provider, geographic region, extent of treatment, and technique used. Light procedures like microdermabrasion start around $100 per treatment, while laser skin resurfacing typically costs $2,000 or more per session.

How can I maximize results?

Consistent sunscreen use, avoiding smoking, sticking to your skincare regimen, and getting annual maintenance treatments will help you achieve long lasting, optimal outcomes.

When will I see results?

Most patients notice significant improvement after a couple weeks of healing. However, it takes 2-6 months for full collagen remodeling and regeneration to complete. Follow up with your provider at recommended intervals to assess your results over time.

What is the recovery like?

Recovery time varies based on the depth of resurfacing performed. Healing from more aggressive treatments takes 10-14 days. Your face may be swollen and red initially, with peeling occurring. Your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions.

Is resurfacing painful?

Topical anesthetics are applied first to maximize comfort. You may feel mild stinging or heat during treatment. Your provider can recommend the best pain management options for your needs.

When can I wear makeup again?

Your skin needs time to heal after resurfacing treatments. Once initial swelling subsides, your provider will recommend gentle mineral makeup products. Follow their guidelines closely to avoid infection and irritation.

Am I too young/old for skin resurfacing?

Skin resurfacing can benefit patients from their 20s to 60s. However, your dermatologist will take your individual skin health and goals into account when creating a treatment plan.

The Takeaway

While any skin resurfacing treatment will require some recovery time, the long term improvements to skin tone, texture, and vibrance can absolutely be worth it. Working with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon is key to ensuring results that meet your expectations. Be sure to follow all pretreatment and post treatment care instructions carefully. With a reputable provider and the right treatment plan customized specifically for your skin, resurfacing procedures can help you achieve youthful, healthy looking skin.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.