At Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center in Newport Beach, CA, we understand the impact that dull and aged skin can have on your overall appearance. Skin concerns like these require effective solutions, and that’s where our range of laser resurfacing options comes into play. They are designed to rejuvenate your skin, making it appear more vibrant and youthful.
Dr. Hendricks brings years of experience to the table, using his extensive knowledge to select the most suitable laser treatments for each patient. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible results, using careful assessment and expert application of laser resurfacing techniques.
What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a non-invasive treatment designed to reduce skin imperfections and promote collagen production. By removing layers of skin, promoting collagen production, and targeting specific colorations, these treatments smooth away lines, scars, and blemishes for a clearer and more youthful complexion. It works by directing concentrated beams of light to target damaged skin cells.
What Are the Different Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing?
There are several types of laser resurfacing treatments, each suited to different skin concerns and recovery times. Ablative lasers offer deep skin resurfacing, removing the outer layers of the skin to reduce significant imperfections like deep wrinkles and scars. Non-ablative lasers, which are less intensive, target the skin without removing it to promote collagen growth. Fractional laser resurfacing combines both approaches, targeting microscopic columns of skin while leaving portions untouched, which allows for faster healing while effectively treating the skin’s surface and deeper layers.
What Different Laser Devices Do We Use?
CO2 Fraxel Laser
The CO2 Fraxel Laser is a tool in skin resurfacing that leverages fractional technology to address various skin issues, including wrinkles, scars, and uneven pigmentation. Its precision allows for deep penetration into the skin, while the fractional energy allows for a shorter downtime. This treatment can be used by itself or after surgery to improve skin laxity and increase the results of the surgery.
BioLase®
Unique to our office, the BioLase, or Waterlase®, device stands out for its non-invasive treatment of moles and skin tags. This device, commonly used in dental offices, is used by Dr. Hendricks to provide patients with beautiful results without pain or scars, setting a new standard in laser skin resurfacing and mole removal. The precision of the BioLase laser allows Dr. Hendricks to target and remove unwanted blemishes cleanly one skin layer at a time for a smooth and unblemished finish that patients appreciate.
Erbium Laser
An Erbium laser is a less invasive option for skin renewal, focusing on superficial to moderate skin concerns. While it effectively treats fine lines, wrinkles, and other textural irregularities, it does so with less heat to the skin. This can reduce recovery time and disruption to patient routines while still providing the results our patients are looking for.
IPL Devices
Our intense pulsed light (IPL) devices are similar to lasers in that they use light therapy, but they use multiple wavelengths of light rather than one. They can treat a range of skin concerns, including age spots, sun damage, and rosacea. IPL treatments are designed to improve skin tone and texture, delivering broad-spectrum light to the deeper parts of the skin without damaging the surface. This method is particularly effective for patients looking to achieve a more even complexion and radiant glow.
Some of the Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Reduces the Appearance of Scars: Scars from acne, surgery, or injuries can be significantly diminished through laser resurfacing for scars.
- Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Sun Spots: Sun exposure and hormonal changes can lead to uneven skin tone. Laser skin treatment targets these areas of discoloration, restoring a more uniform skin complexion.
- Minimizes Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles can be softened through laser resurfacing. The process stimulates collagen production, to promote smoother, younger-looking skin.
- Enhances Skin Firmness and Elasticity: As skin ages, it loses firmness and elasticity. Laser resurfacing treatments help tighten the skin and enhance its elasticity by encouraging the natural production of collagen and elastin.
Improves Dull, Dry Skin: Revitalizing dull and dry skin, certain types of skin resurfacing remove the outermost layers of dead skin, unveiling the softer, more radiant skin underneath and improving overall skin hydration and receptivity to skincare products.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Before and After
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Skin Resurfacing
How Long Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Take?
A single laser resurfacing session can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the treated area’s size and the condition of the skin. The exact duration will be discussed with you during your consultation.
What Can I Expect From My Recovery?
Following laser skin resurfacing, patients may experience redness, swelling, and an overall sensation similar to sunburn which is a sign that your body is responding to the treatment. Recovery time varies, with most individuals resuming normal activities within 10 to 21 days. Your skin will need protection from sunlight, and following post-treatment care instructions is vital for a successful healing process.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments for effective skin rejuvenation is different for every patient and every device. Some patients see improvement after just one session, while others may need multiple treatments. More intensive treatments are often performed only once. During your consultation, we can create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Uncomfortable?
Patients may experience a range of sensations during laser skin treatment, commonly described as a rubber band snapping against the skin. Comfort levels can vary, but topical anesthetics or sedation is often used to minimize discomfort. Discussing pain management options with your provider can help prepare you for the experience.
Restore Youth and Brightness With Laser Skin Resurfacing
At Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center, you benefit from laser resurfacing treatments directly administered by a triple board-certified doctor, one of only about 20 in the U.S., ensuring high standards of care. We take pride in providing these services in Newport Beach, CA, and offer options that no other office in the area provides. If you’re ready to explore how laser resurfacing can enhance your skin, please reach out or call us at (949) 304-6678 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
