How does the treatment work?

Fractional laser resurfacing only treats part of the skin leaving uninjured skin around the treatment site that acts as a barrier promoting quicker healing and faster recovery. The Er:YAG pixel laser uses a matrix of microscopic laser beams each the size of a human hair to drill into the skin leaving much of the surrounding skin undisturbed. Because nearby cells are not damaged they are able to move into the microscopic injured area and promote rapid healing. The stimulation of a healing response leads to the formation of new collagen in the treated area. In addition to this ‘ablative’ effect on the skin’s surface, there is a ‘tightening’ effect on collateral collagen fibres and a resulting smoothing effect.

The Er:YAG laser treats the entire skin’s surface removing the upper layers of skin to reveal the fresher more youthful skin beneath. Due to the need to commit to 7–10 days of intensive wound care, weeks of post-operative redness and risks of pigment change, fractional laser resurfacing is becoming a more popular choice.

What other methods are available?

The CO2 laser causes more heat damage to the surrounding structures than the Er:YAG laser resulting in a long downtime of 2 weeks to 2 months. The popularity of the CO2 procedures has fallen considerably in the last 5 years.

Deep peels almost always result in redness of the skin lasting several months and are sometimes complicated by eventual lightening of the skin. Dermabrasion is technically difficult and can result in altered pigment and scarring if the depth of skin penetration is too deep.

Are there any side effects?

Heat build up occurs in the skin during the procedure and is managed with cold air gently directed over the epidermis. Redness of the skin usually occurs and lasts one to three days. (Make-up can be applied the following day). Expect very mild peeling to take place over the first week. Unlike traditional skin resurfacing, blistering and crusting does not usually occur for several days following the procedure. Dryness of the skin is treated using petroleum jelly, forming a seal that prevents further water loss. There is a very small risk of pigment change and scarring following treatment.

Post-operative care aims to keep the raw resurfaced skin moist, allowing quick regrowth of the epidermis. Open wound healing is recommended using occlusive ointments. Frequent applications and frequent washing with warm tap water keeps the wound clean as it heals. Mild to moderate pain post traditional resurfacing is expected. Itching may occur, crusting should not be picked off and healing is mainly complete at 7–10 days. Following the initial phase the skin often remains pink. Make-up is applied after 2 weeks; sun exposure is avoided for three months. Complications include post-operative redness and itching, darkening of the skin (post-op hyperpigmentation) lasting on average 3 to 4 months and permanent lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation).

Can all areas of the body be treated and does skin colour make a difference?

All areas of the body can be treated with fractional skin resurfacing but it should be emphasized that these techniques work best on facial skin. All types of skin colour can be treated except dark skinned Afro-Caribbean. Traditional resurfacing is not recommended for darker skin types due to the risk of lightening of the skin.

What are the costs likely to be?

The initial consultation is offered free of charge with no obligation to undergo treatment. Costs vary depending on the area being treated. Prices start from £150 per session.

How many treatments are needed?

We recommend a series of 2-4 treatment sessions for fractional skin resurfacing performed at monthly intervals.

Is laser treatment safe?

There is no evidence to suggest whatsoever that laser treatment can be linked to skin disorders or increased risk of skin cancer. Our laser centre is registered with the Health Care Commission ensuring the highest level of safety for our patients. Our lasers are cleared by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have full CE clearance for Europe.

The initial consultation is free of charge with no obligation to undergo treatment. Costs vary depending on the area treated.

Please Note: Prices quoted are per session and are an approximate guide only. If you require a more accurate pricing prior to consultation, please contact us directly. Although laser treatment may seem expensive, one must bear in mind the enormous acquisition and maintenance costs of the laser devices.