We’re headed into the spring season and it’s a great time for laser skin resurfacing. Just like the springtime, laser resurfacing is all about renewal: removing the dead, dull skin cells to make way for the younger, fresher skin cells beneath.
Laser Resurfacing Candidates
Laser skin resurfacing strips away the damaged surface skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter, more youthful skin. Depending on the type of laser used, the treatment can address the following:
- Wrinkles
- Acne scars
- Sun damage
- Uneven skin tone
- Loss of elasticity
- Dullness
If you feel like your skin is in need of a refresh, then laser skin resurfacing may be a great option. Most people are good candidates. Plus, Dr. Schuster will recommend an alternative if laser resurfacing isn’t the right fit.
CO2 vs. Er:Yag Laser
Dr. Schuster uses one of two types of laser:
- CO2. The laser strips away thin layers of skin by vaporizing the skin cells. By creating what we call a controlled injury to the skin, the CO2 laser will stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in smoother, more youthful skin. CO2 treatment tends to involve more downtime, but it is ideal for creating heat in the deep layers of the skin, thereby providing a tightening effect.
- Erbium: YAG. This laser is great for wrinkles and for younger patients. It does not provide any degree of skin tightening, which the CO2 laser does. It can be thought of as treating more superficially than the CO2 laser.
You may be unsure which type of resurfacing is right for you. Leave it to Dr. Schuster to make that determination. It will be helpful to spend some time thinking about exactly what you would like to change about your skin, and what your expectations of treatment are. Discuss these things with Dr. Schuster in your one-on-one consultation so he can build a customized treatment plan for you!
Renew Your Skin with Laser Resurfacing
If you are ready to refresh your skin non-surgically, please call the practice of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ronald Schuster at 410-902-9800. We look forward to answering your questions and scheduling your laser skin resurfacing consultation in the Baltimore, Lutherville-Timonium area.