Laser skin resurfacing is the treatment of choice for many people concerned with skin rejuvenation issues. With laser resurfacing amazing results can be achieved to improve your skin’s appearance and treat a wide range of facial flaws. Laser resurfacing can reduce the appearance of fine lines, treat loss of skin tone and improve your complexion if you have sun damage or scars.

But before you go ahead with any specific procedure, it is a good idea to understand a bit more about what is involved. While all laser treatment for skin rejuvenation use energy to penetrate through skin layers in order to repair the appearance of wrinkles, discoloration, acne scars and signs of ageing, there are broadly two types of laser skin resurfacing approaches: Ablative lasers remove the top layer of the skin, while non-ablative lasers are used to heat up the underlying skin tissue without harming the surface.

Ablative laser treatments use an intense wavelength of light to remove the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heat the underlying skin (dermis) to stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers. Types of ablative treatments include the CO2 and Erbium YAG laser. As the skin heals and regrows, the treated area appears noticeably smoother and tighter.

It is by far the most powerful facial skin treatment and the gold standard for skin rejuvenation and acne scarring. The results achieved are permanent.

While ablative lasers are more invasive than non-ablative laser treatments, they can achieve dramatic improvements after a single treatment. However, patients should be prepared for several weeks of recovery time. Ablative laser treatment is likely the most appropriate choice for individuals who show significant signs of facial aging, have deep or pitted facial scars, are looking for fast, permanent results, and can take time off to recover.

Non-ablative Laser Resurfacing (MOXI)

Non-ablative laser treatment is comparatively less invasive. They work by delivering a precise wavelength of light below the skin’s surface to induce a controlled injury which promotes cellular renewal and the production of collagen, a structural protein that is responsible for skin elasticity, integrity and firmness. The surface of the skin remains undamaged. This type of treatment is best for improving skin texture and tone, fine lines, mild wrinkles and pigmentation issues.

A number of treatments may be needed to see significant results, however the downtime for non-ablative laser treatments is greatly reduced, as is the potential for side effects. Like ablative laser resurfacing, non-ablative treatments are highly effective. There is usually swelling and redness for 48 hours after treatment as opposed to 2 weeks with fully ablative.

Non-ablative lasers can be used on any skin type and color and make-up can often be applied right after the treatment making this type of treatment perfect for slotting into a busy day.

Non-ablative laser surgery is the most appropriate choice for individuals who

Show mild to moderate signs of aging, are younger (under 65 years), willing to have multiple treatments before seeing significant results, want a shorter recovery time. (4-5 days)