Skin resurfacing Treatments

Skin resurfacing refers to a range of procedures designed to create a more toned and more youthful looking skin.

It is especially used on the face to minimise lines and wrinkles. It is extremely popular because for the most part it is minor surgery, and recovery is usually fairly quick depending on the technique used.

What is involved with skin resurfacing?

The idea behind skin resurfacing is to renew the outer epidermis; that is the outer layer of the skin. When new skin grows, it is fresher looking and lines are less visible.
The ‘gold’ standard technique involves the use of a laser, but there are other techniques as well.

  • Laser skin resurfacing uses a laser to remove the outer skin layer
  • A laser can be controlled very accurately so it can operate with incredible levels of precision
  • When the outer layer is removed, new skin takes its place
  • This new skin is fresher and more taut
  • It minimises the look of wrinkles and makes the recipient more youthful looking
  • Another technique is called ‘Plasma Skin resurfacing’ or PSR
  • PSR uses plasma to achieve a similar outcome to laser resurfacing
  • The main difference is that plasma delivers fluid energy to the skin’s deeper layers
  • These deeper layers regenerate, but there is no removal of the outer layer, as there is with laser based processes
  • Laser skin resurfacing can result in a period of healing which may not suit some people, and is unpleasant for some as well
  • PSR avoids that problem, as there is no healing period required
  • Skin resurfacing is also sometimes done with a light acid facial wash that removes the outer layer of the skin much like a laser
  • As with a laser this process will involve a healing period

As you can see there are at least three main ways to achieve skin resurfacing and a large part of your choice will involve whether or not you are prepared to go through a healing process, and how dramatic you want the initial results to be.

Why have skin resurfacing?

Skin resurfacing is a comparatively easy way to gain a more youthful looking visage. It is not a highly intrusive procedure, although depending what you choose, there may be a recovery period. As with all procedures do some research and make sure you only use a professional who is suitably qualified and experienced. The result, if done correctly, will be a more youthful and fresher looking face.