Device-based
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Precise. Controlled. Transformative.
Medical laser systems used to address pigmentation, texture, scarring and skin quality through controlled photothermal energy delivery.
At a glance
Quick facts
- Category
- Device-based
- Appointment duration
- 30 – 90 min
- Anaesthesia
- Discussed during consultation
- Downtime
- 3 – 10 days
- Results onset
- Discussed during consultation
- Longevity
- Discussed during consultation
- Sessions
- Discussed during consultation
- Follow-up
- Review as results develop; course may be recommended
About this treatment
Overview
Laser skin resurfacing uses controlled photothermal energy delivered by a medical laser system to address a range of skin concerns including pigmentation, textural irregularities, acne scarring, and skin quality. The laser wavelength and settings are selected based on your skin type, concern, and the depth of treatment required.
Laser treatments may be ablative — removing the outer skin layers — or non-ablative, which targets deeper tissue while leaving the surface largely intact. Ablative treatments generally require more recovery time but may address deeper concerns. Non-ablative or fractional approaches may offer a more gradual improvement with less downtime.
A thorough Fitzpatrick skin type assessment is mandatory before any laser treatment, as certain wavelengths and settings carry an increased risk of complications in darker skin tones. Suitability is determined entirely by clinical assessment, never assumed.
Concerns this treatment may address
Individual suitability for addressing any specific concern is determined at consultation.
What it may offer
Potential benefits
The following describes potential benefits. Individual results vary and no outcome can be guaranteed.
May improve the appearance of pigmentation, melasma, sun damage, and uneven skin tone
Can address textural concerns including rough skin surface, enlarged pores, and fine lines
May reduce the appearance of acne scarring, depending on scar type
Precise energy delivery allows targeted treatment of specific skin concerns
Can improve overall skin quality and luminosity
Who may be suitable
Adults with a Fitzpatrick skin type confirmed as appropriate for the specific laser and settings being considered
Those who can commit to strict sun avoidance before and after treatment
People seeking targeted treatment of pigmentation, texture, or scarring concerns
Individuals who have not recently used photosensitising medications — reviewed at consultation
Those who understand the recovery period involved, particularly with ablative treatments
Suitability is confirmed at consultation — this list is for general guidance only.
Who may not be suitable
The following are general contraindications. A full medical history review at consultation determines individual suitability.
Individuals with a darker Fitzpatrick skin type for certain laser wavelengths — assessed individually, not assumed
Those currently using or recently having used photosensitising medications
People with a history of keloid scarring
Those with active infection, open wounds, or inflammatory skin conditions at the treatment site
Individuals who cannot commit to strict sun avoidance
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
People who have used oral isotretinoin within a period assessed at consultation
Consultation and assessment
Fitzpatrick skin type assessment — mandatory before any laser treatment
Review of medical history, current medications, and photosensitising agents
Discussion of concerns, goals, and the appropriate laser approach
Explanation of the procedure, recovery period, and realistic outcomes
Review of strict aftercare requirements, particularly sun avoidance
Written informed consent before any treatment proceeds
The procedure
How it works
The treatment area is cleansed and a topical anaesthetic cream may be applied where appropriate
The laser device is calibrated to the specific wavelength, energy level, and pulse settings required for your treatment
The handpiece is moved systematically across the treatment area, delivering controlled pulses of laser energy
The energy is absorbed by targeted chromophores in the skin (such as melanin or water), depending on the laser type
The controlled damage triggers the skin's healing response, supporting collagen production and, in ablative cases, surface renewal
Cooling mechanisms are used during treatment to protect the skin surface and manage discomfort
Preparation
A pre-treatment preparation protocol may be prescribed in the weeks before your appointment — follow this exactly as advised
Avoid sun exposure and use SPF daily for at least four weeks before treatment
Discontinue specific skincare products as directed by the practitioner
Inform the practitioner of any medications, including antibiotics and supplements
Antiviral medication may be prescribed prophylactically if you have a history of cold sores
Arrive with clean skin on the day of treatment
During treatment
Appointments typically range from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the laser type and area treated
Protective eyewear must be worn throughout the procedure — this is mandatory
A snapping, prickling, or warming sensation is typical during laser energy delivery
Cooling is used to manage discomfort and protect the surface
The skin will appear red and may feel hot immediately after treatment
Aftercare
Following aftercare instructions carefully supports your recovery and helps protect your results. Contact the clinic if you have any concerns.
Strict sun avoidance is essential for a minimum of four weeks — often longer — following treatment
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning without exception
Keep the skin clean and well hydrated using practitioner-recommended products
Do not pick, scrub, or exfoliate the skin during recovery
Avoid makeup until the practitioner advises it is safe to do so
Report any unexpected pain, blistering, or skin colour changes to the clinic promptly
Recovery timeline
Timelines are approximate. Individual recovery varies.
- Immediately after
Significant redness, warmth, and swelling are expected after ablative treatments. Non-ablative treatments typically cause milder immediate effects.
- Days 1–3
Redness and swelling are at their most pronounced for ablative treatments. The skin may weep or crust in treated areas. Non-ablative treatments cause less visible downtime.
- Days 4–7
The skin begins to heal and shed for ablative treatments. The practitioner will guide the appropriate skincare routine for this period.
- Weeks 2–4
New skin surface emerges. Residual redness or pinkness may remain and is managed with SPF and appropriate skincare. Makeup is typically resumed during this window.
- Months 1–6
Deeper improvements in skin quality, texture, and pigmentation continue to develop as collagen remodelling progresses.
What to expect
Results vary between individuals. No specific outcome can be guaranteed. The following is general guidance only — your practitioner will discuss what is realistic for your individual situation.
Results depend on the laser type, settings, and the specific concern being treated
Improvements in pigmentation and skin tone may be visible once the skin has healed
Texture improvements and collagen remodelling continue for several months after treatment
Individual results vary — no specific outcome can be guaranteed
Strict sun avoidance before and after treatment significantly influences the outcome
A course of sessions may be recommended for certain concerns
Safety information
Risks and side effects
Common
- Redness, swelling, and warmth after treatment — duration depends on the treatment type
- Skin sensitivity during recovery
- Temporary crusting or surface changes with ablative treatments
- Prolonged pinkness in fair-skinned individuals
Less common
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — risk varies by skin type and is managed through appropriate settings and aftercare
- Hypopigmentation (lightening of treated areas)
- Reactivation of herpes simplex
- Prolonged recovery beyond expected timeframe
Rare
- Scarring — risk significantly reduced with appropriate settings, training, and aftercare compliance
- Infection
- Paradoxical worsening of pigmentation conditions such as melasma
If you experience severe pain, swelling, skin colour changes, vision changes, or any symptoms that concern you after treatment, contact the clinic immediately or seek emergency medical care.
This is not an exhaustive list. All risks are discussed fully at your consultation before any treatment proceeds. This treatment is never described as risk-free.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
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Begin your journey
Begin with a consultation designed around you.
Every treatment begins with an unhurried clinical conversation. No pressure, no obligation — just an honest, individualised assessment.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All treatments carry risks that are discussed in full at a clinical consultation. Individual results vary and no specific outcome is guaranteed. A consultation with a qualified practitioner is required to confirm suitability before any treatment proceeds.