Laser Skin Resurfacing in Houston, TX
Laser Skin Resurfacing in Houston, TX
Laser skin resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a laser to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and skin discoloration. It also tightens the skin and removes lesions.
This technique works by vaporizing the outer layers of your skin and promotes the growth of new collagen fibers using laser beams of light. Short, concentrated beams of light are directed at irregular skin.
The laser beams of light precisely remove the outer layer of skin (epidermis) by vaporizing it and simultaneously heat the underlying layer of skin (dermis), thereby stimulating the growth of new collagen. The growth of new collagen rejuvenates the skin and makes the skin firmer, smoother, and healthier.
Who is a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing in Houston, Tx?
Laser skin resurfacing can be used to address various skin issues. A good candidate for this treatment includes individuals with:
- Uneven skin pigmentation.
- Skin scars
- Age spots
- Acne scars or chickenpox scars
- Sun-damaged skin
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Enlarged oil glands on your nose
- Non-responsive skin after a facelift
This skin resurfacing may not be ideal for you if you have:
- Active acne
- Active herpes
- Very dark skin
- Deep wrinkles
- Sagging or excess skin
- A weak immune system or autoimmune disease
- A history of keloid scars
- Previously had radiation therapy to your face
- Previously had laser resurfacing treatments
- A recent outbreak of cold sores or herpes virus
- Darker brown or black skin
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Taking oral isotretinoin
- Certain skin conditions such as psoriasis
- Recently had a chemical peel
Preparations for Laser Skin Resurfacing
Before having laser skin resurfacing, there are certain instructions to follow:
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun. Protect your skin from sunlight by using sunscreen daily for four weeks before your treatment.
- Avoid deep facial peel treatments for four weeks before your treatment.
- Avoid using medications that cause photosensitivity for at least 72 hours before your treatment.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of herpes or shingles in the treatment area. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications like valacyclovir or acyclovir that you can use, usually two days before your treatment and three days after your treatment.
- You may need to apply a topical retinoid on your skin for about four weeks before your treatment.
- If you smoke, you will be asked to stop smoking at least two weeks before and after your treatment to reduce your risk of complications.
What to Expect During Laser Skin Resurfacing
Before laser skin resurfacing is performed, patients may be administered local anesthesia in combination with medications delivered orally or intravenously.
During the procedure, areas of the face to be treated will be numbed with a local anesthetic. If the entire face is to be treated, general anesthesia may be used. The skin area to be treated will be thoroughly cleaned.
An intense beam of laser light will be directed at your skin. The laser beam destroys the outer layer of your skin while also heating the underlying skin layer. The heat stimulates the production of new collagen over time.
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the size of the area treated.
