Skin Resurfacing

What is Skin Resurfacing?

Some of the most common signs of aging that affect men and women exist within the outermost layers of the skin. Skin resurfacing removes damaged layers of skin to reveal young, fresh, flawless cells. Resurfacing your skin may help with:

• Age Spots
• Sun-damaged skin
• Brown spots
• Wrinkles and fine lines, such as crow’s feet
• Acne scars and other types of minor scarring

How Skin Resurfacing Works

At Gulf Coast Facial Plastics in Panama City, we use advanced, light-based systems to perform our resurfacing treatments. The technology works by precisely removing the outermost layers of skin where sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and other cosmetic issues exist. We recommend laser resurfacing for the eye area, forehead and brow, nose, mouth, and cheek areas.

What to Expect After Treatment

After the treatment, your skin may have a slightly pink appearance and will be very sensitive to the sun. No extensive downtime is required. In the first week, you may notice the skin sloughing. This indicates the procedure worked and new cells are emerging. Your brown spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and other cosmetic concerns gradually fade as your body generates new, healthy skin cells.

No procedure can stop the aging process, but laser resurfacing gives your skin a fresh, new start. By taking care of your skin, and protecting it from sunlight, you can enjoy the results of skin resurfacing for many years.

Pre / Post Operative Instruction For Skin Resurfacing With LASER

Laser treatment will create a superficial injury. An ointment will be applied immediately after resurfacing. It is essential that you keep your lasered areas lubricated with A&D Ointment or some other comparable product. Do nothing for the first 24 hours except applying the ointment and cold compresses.

After the initial 24-hour period begins cleansing your lasered areas with a mild cleanser and cold water by gently massaging it onto the areas with your fingertips, do not use a washcloth or any abrasive material. This may cause skin damage. After cleansing, gently pat dry, and then apply a generous amount of ointment. Repeat this process at least three times a day. Please refrain from using any product on the lasered areas other than recommended by Dr. Daube for the first month, unless instructed otherwise by Dr. Daube.

You may observe white scabs forming on or about the second or third day after resurfacing. This is normal. Do not pick or pull at the scabs as this is your body’s own method of protecting an injured area. They will fall off later, depending upon how quickly your skin heals. You will also experience a “weeping” of your skin along with some swelling, this is also normal.

Your lasered areas will be pink or red, depending on the depth of your laser treatment. Loss of skin pigment is normal. Complete healing usually occurs in six to eight weeks; however, please do not use any facial products or makeup for one month or until instructed by Dr. Daube.

Avoid sun exposure until healed, and then wear sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher for the next six months. Do not use Retin A, or any alpha hydroxy acids for one month after surgery. Please call the office to make an appointment to begin a skin care program after your treatment. It is recommended at that time to maintain a healthy complexion.

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic treatment that uses precise laser energy to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, diminish scars, and correct sun damage. The procedure involves removing the outer layers of skin to stimulate collagen growth, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. CO2 laser skin resurfacing is particularly effective for significant rejuvenation of facial skin.

How much is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing cost varies depending on the type of treatment, the area being treated, and the extent of skin issues. Typically, prices for facial laser resurfacing treatments range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars per session. An exact laser resurfacing price can be provided during a personalized consultation based on individual skin needs and treatment goals.

How long does it take to see results after skin resurfacing?

Initial results from skin resurfacing treatments often become visible once initial redness and swelling subside, usually within one to two weeks. Noticeable improvements in skin tone, texture, and appearance continue to develop gradually over several weeks to months. Final results are typically apparent after about three to six months as collagen rebuilds and skin fully rejuvenates.

What can you not do after laser resurfacing?

After laser resurfacing, it’s essential to avoid sun exposure, harsh skincare products, and activities that cause excessive sweating or irritation for at least two weeks. Avoiding direct sunlight helps prevent complications and ensures optimal healing. Gentle skin care after laser resurfacing and consistent use of sunscreen will protect your skin and support the best results.

How painful is skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing can cause some mild discomfort, often compared to a sunburn or light stinging sensation. To ensure the experience is as comfortable as possible, topical numbing creams are typically applied before treatment. For deeper resurfacing procedures, IV sedation may also be offered to help patients relax and stay comfortable throughout. Most people find the process very manageable, and any post-treatment discomfort usually fades within a few days.

Can I wash my face after skin resurfacing?

You can typically wash your face gently 24 to 48 hours after laser skin resurfacing. Use only mild cleansers recommended by your clinician and avoid scrubbing or applying harsh products. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized supports effective healing and minimizes the risk of infection.

How long does laser resurfacing last?

The results from laser resurfacing can last several years, depending on your skin type, age, lifestyle, and skincare routine. Proper sun protection, hydration, and ongoing skin care after treatment can significantly prolong and enhance results. While laser treatment for the face effectively rejuvenates skin, regular follow-up treatments may help maintain optimal appearance over time.

How long does it take for resurfacing to heal?

Healing from laser skin resurfacing typically takes about one to two weeks. Initial redness, swelling, and mild peeling or flaking are common and usually resolve within the first week. Full recovery, including complete fading of redness and any residual sensitivity, can take several weeks to months, particularly after deeper treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing.

What is the best treatment for skin resurfacing?

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is often considered the gold standard for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. It effectively treats deeper wrinkles, significant sun damage, and pronounced scarring. However, the best treatment choice depends on your specific skin concerns, skin type, and desired results, making a personalized consultation the ideal first step.