You want your skin to feel fresh and healthy without relying on heavy makeup or a multitude of products. Embracing a minimalistic routine allows your natural beauty to shine through. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to beauty!
Australia’s obsession with the perfect face led to a 300% increase in cosmetic procedures in 2021. Social media has fueled this fascination with healthy, clear, and young skin, with people now using fewer products and wanting natural, “minimalistic” skin.
Laser skin resurfacing is one of the most popular procedures in the country that guarantees healthier and younger-looking skin. This cosmetic procedure can rejuvenate dull, sun-damaged skin, helping you achieve the perfect face quickly.
Dr Refresh led by Dr Ritu, Specialist Dermatologist, is the most trusted in Ultimo, Sydney, providing the best skin care treatments in the suburb and nearby areas. With the help of her trained staff and the latest skin care equipment, Dr Ritu can perform laser skin resurfacing treatments safely and effectively.
Remember, partnering with the best practice for laser skin treatments is the first step to vibrant and healthy skin. Let’s learn more about laser skin resurfacing and how Dr Ritu can help you with this procedure.
What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
The thought of lasers blasting through your skin may seem scary, but in the hands of our specialist team, your laser skin resurfacing will achieve the best results.
We have patented protocols using a combination of erbium, CO2 lasers and chemical stimulation of collagen remodelling to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage (solar elastosis).
The outer skin, or epidermis, has five layers. The outermost layers contain imperfections such as liver spots, age spots, and discolouration. Laser resurfacing removes (ablates) these outer layers, revealing healthy skin and stimulating new skin cells.
The popularity of laser resurfacing has grown immensely in the country. The Australian skin laser market was valued at USD 328.9 million in 2021, with a projected growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2022 to 2030. The increasing aesthetic awareness and the popularity of treatments for skin rejuvenation are driving demand, especially for ablative laser procedures. These are expected to increase at 6.1% annually during this period.
Laser skin treatment can be performed using these devices.
Ablative Laser
Laser skin resurfacing with an ablative laser involves using a beam of energy to remove the outer skin layers and apply heat to the resurfaced skin. This heat promotes the growth of collagen and elastin, which firms skin and improves texture. Ablative lasers such as carbon dioxide and erbium lasers and a combination of both are best for laser skin resurfacing.
Non-Ablative Laser
Non-ablative lasers are non-invasive compared to ablative lasers. Because there is no breaking of the skin barrier, non-ablative lasers may need more treatments to achieve the desired results. Picosecond, Nd:Yag and second-generation intense pulsed light (BBL) are the most commonly used procedures for skin rejuvenation in our practice.
In the hands of specialist dermatologist Dr Ritu and her team, you can be assured that we will diagnose and manage your skin concerns with the best combination treatments available.
Different Types of Laser Resurfacing
There are different kinds of laser skin resurfacing depending on the type of laser used. Here are the most popular:
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is one of the earliest and most effective methods for treating many skin issues, such as warts, scars, wrinkles, and large oil glands. The most updated fractionated CO2 is so precise that it can remove very thin layers of skin with minimal damage. The recovery time is also quicker, at just two weeks.
Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing can be used with care on all skin types. However, higher doses are reserved for fairer skin.
Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing
One advantage of erbium lasers is that they can remove surface and deeper skin layers. They are effective for wrinkles and deep lines without damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Erbium lasers are used to remove age spots on the face, neck, chest, and hands.
Erbium lasers offer quicker recovery times. They are the best laser resurfacing method for people of colour and risks of discolouration during recovery are minimal if treated by appropriately trained clinical staff.
Picosecond Neodymium Yag Laser
Picosecond Nd:Yag lasers are recommended for people with darker skin tones as they can penetrate deeper into the skin layers, beyond the melanin layer. Aside from skin resurfacing, neodymium lasers can help remove birthmarks, tattoos, facial or body hair and hyperpigmentation.
Treatment with an Nd:Yag laser will be done in sessions to minimise risks. Lower laser settings will be applied during the initial sessions and gradually adjusted according to your comfort level.
Fractional Lasers
This type of laser targets only a small section of the skin thus is less intense and dangerous to the surrounding skin. Fractional Lasers are best for age spots, blemishes, acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
Broadband light (second generation IPL)
BBL is the Rolls Royce of IPL. However, tailored treatment parameters are important to achieve treatment of rosacea and redness, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, acne marks, and unwanted facial body hair.
Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing
Are you still uncertain about whether laser resurfacing is best for you? This procedure is effective for many types of skin imperfections and conditions.
Improves Skin Texture
After a few sessions, you will notice an improvement in skin texture. Laser treatment can remove skin imperfections, revive unhealthy skin, and thus improve firmness and reduce lines.
Reverses Signs of Aging
Are fine lines and deep creases worrying you? Laser treatment for wrinkles is one of the most effective anti-aging treatments. You will look younger and healthier with glowing skin as laser skin resurfacing can reduce wrinkles, erase liver spots, and remove age spots.
Heals Sun Damage
Your once light complexion has turned dark and dull because of years of exposure to the sun. Laser treatment can remove damaged skin layers and resurface the skin, making it lighter and brighter. Applying sun protection can help preserve rejuvenated skin and avoid further sun damage.
Erases Acne Marks and Scars
The Australian Family Physician states that more than 90% of Australian teenagers aged 16–18 suffer from acne vulgaris, which significantly affects their self-esteem and emotional well-being. Moderate-to-severe cases result in permanent scarring. We utilise lasers to resurface skin and reduce scarring which will expose acne-free skin. Regular skin care and a healthy lifestyle can help preserve healthy skin after laser skin resurfacing.
Shrinks Pores
Various factors can contribute to larger skin pores, including sun damage, excessive oil, clogged pores, and acne. Laser skin resurfacing can remove damaged skin layers to reveal healthy skin with smaller or less-pronounced pores.
Picosecond Nd: YAG is particularly effective in our hands for prominent pores and ice-pick acne scars.
Stimulates Collagen Growth
The heat from an ablative laser can stimulate the underlying skin or dermis, triggering collagen production. Thanks to increased collagen, your skin will become smoother, healthier, and younger-looking over time.
Non-Invasive with Minimal Downtime
Non-invasive laser resurfacing does not have any downtime and makeup can be applied immediately. Treatments are performed in our state-of-the-art dermatology practice. You will be able to return to work and your daily activities in no time.
Preparing for Your Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment
Skin rejuvenation using laser resurfacing happens in stages. During your first consultation, Dr Ritu and her team will take your medical history including your medical history including any medical conditions, medications, and allergies. She and her Dr Refresh staff will also assess your skin and your skin concerns.
All pre and post-care will be discussed with you in detail and you will be provided with written information.
Use Sunscreen
Kickstart your results by embracing sun protection and sun avoidance.
Even minimal direct sun exposure can worsen your skin. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily before you leave home. Wear hats, long-sleeved shirts, or umbrellas to shield from the sun.
Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle
Tobacco and alcohol can affect how cells absorb nutrients and oxygen. Avoiding these as early as possible can help improve overall health and skin healing after the laser resurfacing procedure. Also, eating a healthy diet, including fresh foods, and avoiding stress can help.
Dr Refresh has developed a unique skin assessment tool. This tool helps Dr Ritu and her team evaluate your skin health, recommend the best treatment, and prepare you before any procedure. Your results also help Dr Ritu provide a targeted and comprehensive plan to address your skin concerns.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
Post-treatment skin care is important to ensure successful results and recovery. Remember these take-home tips:
- Follow Dr Ritu’s advice given at the consultation.
- Have regular checks to ensure proper healing and recovery (for ablative procedures only).
- Drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious meals (follow a healthy lifestyle for best results with any invasive procedure or non-invasive).
Recovery from laser skin resurfacing will have been discussed with you in full and we will see you for post-procedure reviews.
Depending on Dr Ritu’s recommendations, you may need to return for additional laser treatments. To maintain your results long-term, follow her skin care regimen and practice a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone get laser skin resurfacing treatments?
If treated by a specialist dermatologist, all skin types are candidates for laser resurfacing. Talk to Dr Ritu if you have skin infections, acne, and other issues to determine if you’re ready for this treatment.
How much will it cost to get laser resurfacing?
The cost of laser skin resurfacing depends on the number of sessions, the extent of the treatment, and the kind of laser resurfacing procedure you require. The first step in your personalised recommendation is a consultation with diagnosis and assessment by Dr Ritu or her Dr Refresh team. Please call for a consultation at (02) 8014 6500.
How many sessions are needed to improve my skin?
Some people see great changes in just one session. However, it’s best to follow Dr Ritu’s recommendations. The number of treatments will depend on the extent of your condition and the type of laser procedure.
When can you expect recovery from laser skin resurfacing?
Many procedures have no downtime at all and can be done at any time of year. For laser skin resurfacing, recovery can take 4-7 days depending upon the depth of the treatment.
Dr Refresh is the premier cosmetic dermatologist clinic for all skin care needs. Dr Ritu is ready to help you with laser skin resurfacing, answer your questions, and guide you through the process. Your beautiful, radiant skin is just a phone call away.
