Laser Resurfacing
Aging, acne, and time spent in the sun can leave you with skin you wished looked younger and healthier.
Laser skin resurfacing can improve the appearance of common skin concerns and stimulate the production of collagen.
The Center for Cosmetic Medicine in Champaign, IL, provides a suite of nonsurgical facial treatments—see if laser resurfacing is right for you.
How Laser Skin Resurfacing Works
Laser skin resurfacing uses light and heat to break down old and damaged skin tissue. The body is then able to slough off this damaged tissue and create new, healthier-looking skin that is more even in texture and color. Laser resurfacing also stimulates the production of collagen, which contributes to firm, youthful-looking skin. Laser treatment can be performed with:
Ablative Lasers
Ablative lasers remove the outermost layers of the skin to treat superficial to deeper skin concerns like:
- Depressed acne scars
- Fine lines
- Scars
- Warts
- Wrinkles
This type of laser can produce more dramatic results but requires a longer downtime and healing process.
Non-Ablative Lasers
Non-ablative lasers don't remove any layers of skin and can treat superficial skin concerns like:
- Acne
- Age spots
- Fine Lines
- Rosacea
- Spider veins
This type of laser may produce less noticeable results but is gentler and has a shorter recovery time.
The Benefits of Laser Resurfacing With The Center for Cosmetic Medicine
Improved Appearance
With laser resurfacing, you can minimize the appearance of your cosmetic concerns while simultaneously delaying the signs of aging. This is because lasers stimulate collagen production, meaning your body also creates more new skin.
Nonsurgical Procedure
Laser skin resurfacing is a great way for patients to achieve youthful skin without plastic surgery. While the results of a facelift or another surgery are more dramatic and longer-lasting, laser resurfacing is an affordable alternative that requires less downtime and can help you preview the results of a surgical procedure.
Experienced Surgeon
Dr. Stuart Baker has been providing plastic surgery to patients throughout Champaign, Decatur, and Monticello since 1980. When you choose him for surgery or one of our med spa services, you can trust that he has the capabilities to perform safe and effective procedures that achieve stellar results.
"Dr. Baker's extensive background and compassionate approach can bring clarity to your choices so you feel confident in taking the next step."
What to Expect at Your Laser Resurfacing Appointment
Your skin resurfacing appointment at our office in Champaign, Decatur, or Monticello will involve several steps:
Treating just one part of your face can take about 30-45 minutes. Treating the entire face can take up to two hours.
Caring for Your Skin After Laser Treatment
Downtime
Laser resurfacing is a nonsurgical procedure, but it still requires a little downtime. It can take about 3-10 days for your skin to heal after a non-ablative treatment and up to three weeks for ablative treatment. During this time, your skin may peel and scab over. You can also expect some swelling, redness, and itchiness. While this shouldn't keep you from working or running errands, try to avoid spaces with germs, like public gyms.
Follow a Skin Care Routine
As you heal, it's recommended that you clean the treatment site two to five times a day using a gentle saline solution. You'll also have to change your bandages every day. Once your skin can tolerate it, use a moisturizer and wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
Minimize Sun Exposure
Your skin can be sensitive for up to a year after your treatment, and the sun's rays are particularly damaging during this time. In addition to wearing sunscreen, try to stay out of the sun when possible. Wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses to prevent sun damage and the formation of new wrinkles.
Alternative Nonsurgical Treatments Available at Our Champaign, IL, Offices
"Our Estique Medical Spa offers nonsurgical services so our clients can escape their daily routine and treat themselves with indulgences that rejuvenate."
