ResurFX: What You Need to Know

Pros

• It’s quick. ResurFX requires only one pass over each treatment area (whereas other fractional lasers require as many as six to eight), so this skin rejuvenation procedure usually takes just 15–30 minutes. The short treatment time also helps protect your skin.
• The ResurFX handpiece has a CoolScan scanner, which detects the temperature of the tissue to help prevent overheating and burns. It also offers continuous cooling, which makes the treatment more comfortable. 
• Recovery time is shorter than you'd have with many other skin-resurfacing lasers. One RealSelf member says she stayed home for a day, because it felt and looked like she had a sunburn, but she was back to her normal routine after that. 
• The ResurFX laser can be used to treat a wide variety of common skin conditions on the face, neck, décolletage, and body. 

Cons

• Some RealSelf members say that they had discomfort, itchiness, and skin that felt like sandpaper in the treated area during the healing process. 
• If you’re prone to cold sores, this and other laser treatments might trigger an outbreak. Your doctor can prescribe antiviral medication prior to your treatment. 
• While each treatment session only requires one pass, you’ll likely need two to four sessions, spaced four weeks apart, for optimal results.

• Average Cost:
• $675

• Range:
• $224 - $1,999

Your treatment price will depend on your doctor’s level of experience, their practice location, and the number of treatment sessions you receive.

A series of treatments can usually be purchased as a package at a discounted price.

The ResurFX photos in our gallery have been shared by the provider who performed the procedure, with the patient's consent.

The heat from the laser energy does stimulate production of new collagen, which can help firm skin; what's why it reduces the appearance of wrinkles. However, it doesn't offer enough tightening to make a huge difference in tightening loose skin.

Depending on your treatment goals and the depth of laser energy penetration that will be required, your provider will set the handpiece on a low, medium, or high setting.

Then they'll apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area. Once your skin is numb, your provider will pass the handpiece over the treatment area, creating microinjuries on a fraction of your skin's surface. The device's cooling feature will help soothe and protect your skin from heat damage. The treatment isn't painful, but you will feel some warmth.

These microinjuries and the heat from the laser trigger a healing response, which will boost collagen production and elastin production over time. 

ResurFX laser treatment can be combined with an IPL (intense pulsed light) photofacial, for even more dramatic results in treating concerns like brown pigmentation and redness. This combination is known as a Lumenis Photofractional treatment.

Your downtime will depend in part on the intensity level of your treatment, but you can expect swelling for about two days, with redness and sensitivity for up to five days after treatment. Cold compresses can help keep you comfortable; try putting a damp washcloth in the freezer and gently applying it to your skin. 

Resist the urge to pick at any scabs or flakes, as this can lead to hyperpigmentation.

Avoid any harsh skincare ingredients (retinoids, physical exfoliants, acids, etc.) as you heal.

 You’ll also be extremely sun-sensitive and need to avoid sun exposure immediately after your treatment—and continue to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for at least three months.

You'll see a difference in skin clarity, texture, and tone after healing from just one treatment, but you may need two or more sessions to reach your desired results. 

You’ll continue to see firmer, smoother skin for up to six months after your procedure, as new collagen forms. 

With a good skin-care routine—including daily SPF of at least 30—and a healthy lifestyle, you may be able to maintain your results for up to two years.