Q: What is a laser peel?

Another term for laser resurfacing , a laser peel uses concentrated pulses of light to improve skin tone and texture. It can treat fine lines and wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. A laser peel typically refers to ablative laser treatment, which removes the surface layer of your skin to reveal fresh skin. It also heats up the lower layer to tighten and stimulate collagen production. This controlled microdamage provokes your body’s natural healing response, which speeds cell turnover. The two most common types of lasers are CO2 and erbium. Your doctor will determine the best laser for your skin and concerns as well as how many treatments you need. Avoid a laser peel if you have active acne, since the treatment can make it worse. People with deep skin tones should also avoid this treatment because of increased risk of hypo- or hyperpigmentation. A month before your laser peel, stop smoking and avoid sun exposure to reduce your risk of pigmentation issues. Your doctor may also recommend that you use a retinoid, like Retin-A , for a few weeks before your treatment to help speed the rate of cell turnover.

Question 1

What is a laser peel?

Accepted Answer

Another term for laser resurfacing, a laser peel uses concentrated pulses of light to improve skin tone and texture. It can treat fine lines and wrinkles, scars, and sun damage.

A laser peel typically refers to ablative laser treatment, which removes the surface layer of your skin to reveal fresh skin. It also heats up the lower layer to tighten and stimulate collagen production. This controlled microdamage provokes your body’s natural healing response, which speeds cell turnover.

The two most common types of lasers are CO2 and erbium. Your doctor will determine the best laser for your skin and concerns as well as how many treatments you need.

Avoid a laser peel if you have active acne, since the treatment can make it worse. People with deep skin tones should also avoid this treatment because of increased risk of hypo- or hyperpigmentation.

A month before your laser peel, stop smoking and avoid sun exposure to reduce your risk of pigmentation issues. Your doctor may also recommend that you use a retinoid, like Retin-A, for a few weeks before your treatment to help speed the rate of cell turnover.

Question 2

What happens during a laser peel

Accepted Answer

A laser peel can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the size of the area treated. Your doctor will give you a local anesthetic to numb your skin and possibly sedation. They’ll then use the handheld laser device to zap your skin, removing the top layer. You should be numb enough to not feel it.

Before you leave, they’ll apply a thick ointment and possibly a dressing to your face. You’ll need someone there to take you home.

At home, apply ice packs and take an over-the-counter pain reliever as recommended by your doctor.

Question 3

What to expect after a laser peel

Accepted Answer

You’ll most likely need a week of social downtime as your skin begins to heal. During that time, it’ll look like you have a severe sunburn and may be raw, swollen, and blistered. It may ooze for a few days, followed by crusting and peeling. Don’t pick, scratch, or shave your healing skin; this could cause scarring.

Clean your skin several times a day, using a saline or vinegar solution to prevent infection, and moisturize as directed by your doctor. “Keeping the skin moist and lubricated promotes faster healing,” says Los Angeles facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jacob Sedgh in a RealSelf Q&A about aftercare.

In a week or two, you should be able to use makeup. It’s important to use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) religiously after a laser peel to protect your new and very sensitive skin.

Once the treated area has peeled and your skin is in full healing mode, you’ll see pronounced changes in your skin’s tone and texture. Keep in mind, however, that your skin may stay pink for up to a year, so it will be a while before you see the final results.

Your results can last for 8–10 years. They’re technically permanent, but your skin will continue to change with age and exposure to environmental factors like sunlight

Question 4

How much does a laser peel cost?

Accepted Answer

Your price will depend on the complexity of your treatment, the laser your doctor uses, their level of experience, and their office location.

Question 5

Laser peel before and after pictures

Accepted Answer

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

LASER PEEL

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