You have multiple factors to think about when choosing which method of laser skin resurfacing treatment is right for you. Laser skin resurfacing is ideal for patients who are unsatisfied with their skin’s appearance. If you have skin damaged by the sun, acne scars, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, redness, or pigmentation concerns, a laser skin resurfacing procedure may be helpful to improve these imperfections. Also, laser skin resurfacing works effectively for those who have a rough texture, scaly patches, or other irregularities. This treatment is not suggested for anyone who has very dark skin or active acne outbreaks. Also, it’s important to understand that there could be downtime needed after laser treatments. 

Before you have Sciton Halo laser resurfacing treatment, you may be asked to use a retinoid cream for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser procedure. The retinoid helps prep the skin for maximum results. Medication may be prescribed prior to the procedure to help lessen any sensation for greater relaxation during your appointment. If your complexion only needs mild correction, a topical anesthetic will be used to numb treated areas of the face. Throughout the procedure, you will relax in our special treatment chair while the laser Halo handpiece glides over your skin, directly targeting the designated surfaces for resurfacing. You may feel the heat of the laser followed by cold air from the built-in cooling system. The hybrid fractional Halo laser is designed to eliminate damaged skin cells while also promoting natural collagen production.

For milder resurfacing procedures, a healing ointment will be smoothed over the treated skin, and you can go home for your recovery. The treated skin may appear pink, and there will be some irritation and swelling. This should subside within a couple of days, and the peeling process will last over a 3 – 5 day timeframe. For those who are receiving a more intense resurfacing procedure, your recovery time will take longer. The treatment areas may be covered by dressings, and the swelling, burning, and irritation sensation may be stronger. Pain medication can be prescribed to help reduce these symptoms. The recovery period associated with deeper laser skin resurfacing procedure can last 2 – 3 weeks. All patients should minimize their sun exposure following their laser skin resurfacing treatment and use sun protection regularly. For all laser treatments, the skin will naturally crust, flake, and peel away. It is important to avoid picking at the skin during the recovery process to keep from scarring and to protect your skin from UV exposure. After the peeling process has been finished, the treated skin should feel smoother while looking rejuvenated, younger, and clearer.

Your laser skin resurfacing costs vary based on the treatment type you get. During your consultation, Dr. Hanz will ask about your skin issues and goals before explaining the types of resurfacing treatments. Then, he will help you decide on your resurfacing method and discuss costs. Kevin R. Hanz, M.D. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery often runs skin treatment specials and discounted packages, so ask about current specials in your appointment.

Dr. Hanz or someone on his team will talk to you about how you can speed skin healing after a laser treatment. The top rule is do not pick or peel your skin. This could create long-term damage, including scars. You need to skip all hair removal methods in the treatment area, which means no shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams. We can suggest a cream to help soothe treated areas.

Based on the laser resurfacing options you and Dr. Hanz choose for your procedure, you might need to wait a few weeks or even months between treatments. You should tell Dr. Hanz about how often you are willing to come back for treatments so he can consider this when choosing a treatment plan in your initial consultation. Thankfully, with Sciton Halo technology, patients typically notice optimal results after 1 – 2 treatments at our Dallas, TX facility.