Skin Resurfacing

“The clarity and evenness of the skin is the key component of how a person is subconsciously perceived. So much so that studies have shown people are judged on sincerity, competence, happiness, honesty, age, and character solely based on the luminosity of their skin.”

— Haideh Hirmand / MD

Lasers

Lasers have been used for skin resurfacing effectively for many years however evolution in laser technology has increased the options for the use of lasers, and made the procedures safer with less downtime and faster healing. The depth of penetration and range of results are primarily a function of the settings, which are customized based on skin types, downtime, and goals. Lasers are typically used on the face, but can also improve the neck and chest areas, where lower settings are used due to the slower healing capability. Lasers are extremely effective at collagen stimulation and are used to treat pigmentation, tone, texture, fine and deep lines, acne scarring. Lasers can also tighten skin to some extent.

Non-Ablative Lasers (see Icon Clear) will leave the skin brighter and improve tone, texture and pigmentation. One treatment can visibly improve the skin, however, a series of 3 to 5 treatments will get results that can significantly improve the skin’s appearance. There is no real downtime since there is no visible crusting or peeling however the skin is usually pink for one to two days after the procedure. The discomfort associated with the treatment is mild and is managed well with numbing cream prior to the procedure.

Ablative Lasers (see ActiveFx/Deep Fx) effectively treat hyperpigmentation, fine and coarse wrinkles, acne scarring and damaged skin texture. The most commonly used type of ablative laser is the CO2 laser. Fractionation of the ablative lasers is a technological break through in recent years which has decreased the downtime significantly by allowing rapid healing, while preserving most of the effectiveness. Fractionated lasers penetrate deep into the skin and result in visible tightening and peeling with a recovery time that ranges from three days to a full week. Depending on the depth of the treatment and the skin type, preparation may be prescribed, for several weeks prior to the procedure.

Energy

 Technological advancement have introduced newer methods of resurfacing using other energy sources, mainly Radiofrequency (RF). In a similar manner, RF energy is used to heat the skin in a customizable fashion, stimulate collagen and resurface the skin similar to a laser procedure.  Treatments like Fractora can treat pigmentation, tone, texture, acne scarring and can also tighten the skin. 

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are treatments intended to lift away the upper layer of the skin through the use of organic acids or fruit acids, revealing more youthful skin beneath. The depth of correction and range of results are primarily a function of the concentration of acids. Peels are typically used on the face, but can also improve the often neglected neck and chest areas, as well has the hands and the skin of the body such as the back, legs, and arms.