Laser Skin Resurfacing Sherman Oaks, CA

Laser safety depends on the platform. Older ablative lasers (CO2, certain Erbium settings) and some IPL settings carry meaningful risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, paradoxical hypopigmentation, or thermal burns in darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). Nd:YAG lasers are generally the safer choice for darker skin types because the longer wavelength bypasses melanin in the epidermis. At Cosmetic Injectables Center Medspa, our licensed providers assesses Fitzpatrick skin type at consultation and selects the platform and energy settings appropriate for the patient’s skin.

Laser skin resurfacing uses targeted light wavelengths to address skin texture, tone, and pigmentation; specific platforms target specific clinical indications. Microneedling creates controlled micro-channels in the skin to stimulate collagen via mechanical injury without thermal energy. Morpheus 8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to deliver heat into deeper layers of the dermis. The three categories address different clinical indications and recovery profiles. Our licensed providers reviews skin concerns at consultation and selects the modality (or combination of modalities) most appropriate for the patient.

The number of sessions depends on the platform and the clinical indication. Single-session protocols (e.g., one fractional ablative treatment) are appropriate for some indications; series protocols (3–6 IPL or Nd:YAG sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart) are typical for pigmentation and tone correction. The exact protocol is determined at consultation with our licensed providers, MD at our Sherman Oaks medical spa, based on the patient’s skin type, indication, and recovery tolerance.

Depends on the type of resurfacing done.  Ablative fully burns skin, leaving scabs behind, which can be painful.  Non-ablative laser heats the deeper layer of outer skin to stimulate new cell growth, which isn’t painful once treatment is complete. Comfort is provided during treatment with topical numbing creams and a cryo air blower.

Not with non-ablative lasers.  Treatment is deep, so it doesn’t show on the surface.  Ablative laser leaves a scab behind for up to 2 weeks.

There are two major types of laser resurfacing treatments—ablative and nonablative lasers. Examples of ablative lasers include CO2 Laser resurfacing and Erbium YAG laser resurfacing. Non-ablative lasers include: Erbium Glass, intense pulse light, Nd: YAG laser, pulsed dye laser, and pulsed-dye light.

Laser resurfacing is the process of using lasers to regenerate the outer layer of the skin and improve the texture and appearance. The surface layers of damaged skin are gently shed to show the smoother, younger-looking skin underneath. It can improve wrinkles, age spots, scars, and level skin tone.

Depending on the laser intensity, layer, density, and depth of treatment, some resurfacing lasers can be more painful than others.  Topical or injection of numbing agents, Zimmer Cryo Cool Air Blowing Device, nitrous oxide gas, and other modalities are available at our medspa to increase comfort. Most commonly, it feels like a rubber band lightly snapping on your skin.

Usually, 2 to 3 resurfacing treatments are recommended, each 4-6 weeks apart. However, some can see results as soon as even just one treatment.

While there’s no “best” age, we recommend waiting until at least 16-18 years of age before laser treatments.  As for results, the more severe the skin problems, the more the impact laser resurfacing will have on you.  This can cover a wide age range, as acne and acne scars can be just as bothersome to teens as wrinkles and loose skin are for older patients.

The cost of laser skin resurfacing varies considerably based on factors like the size of the area being treated, the type of laser used, the experience of the practitioner, and the location. It can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per session. Our medspa offers competitive pricing.

Not everyone is a good candidate for laser resurfacing. People with certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with darker skin tones (due to a higher risk of pigmentation issues) might not be ideal candidates. It’s crucial to have a thorough consultation, as pre-treatment prescription-strength lightening creams may help your eligibility as a candidate.

Insurance usually doesn’t cover elective cosmetic procedures such as skin resurfacing. 

The best laser for a 60-year-old depends on the specific target. For addressing pigmentation, wrinkles, and thin skin, resurfacing lasers are highly effective. If the focus is on redness or blood vessels, the Cutera Excel V or VBeam would be the most suitable options. For pigmentation concerns alone, IPLs, resurfacing lasers, and pico lasers deliver excellent results. Lastly, for darker skin types that want collagen stimulation or treatment of rosacea, laser genesis is best.

Typically, collagen building after resurfacing laser starts immediately, but can take up to 3 months for complete results. Considering that it takes years for collagen to deteriorate to the point where obvious aging symptoms appear, this is a rather short time frame, as your body has to self-produce collagen, which is not as speedy as filler or Botox injections.

Yes. Almost all face lift surgeons also perform a skin resurfacing procedure right after performing surgery to improve skin texture and tone.

Depending on the precise targets, resurfacing lasers work very well for thin skin, wrinkles, and sun spots. The Cutera Excel V or VBeam is the best choice if redness, such as rosacea, veins, or other blood vessels, is the main focus. IPLs, resurfacing lasers, and pico lasers work wonders for pigmentation issues alone.

It’s a good idea not to exfoliate too soon after a resurfacing laser, as it is already a type of exfoliating procedure.   It may even be harmful to your results.  Depending on the type and depths of laser resurfacing you had, your aftercare will be different, and you must consult your provider for exact instructions as to when it is safe to restart topical exfoliation, which is good for maintaining your results.

We recommend waiting until 16-18 years of age to consider laser resurfacing. Usually, younger individuals use resurfacing lasers to reduce acne scars. However, fractional resurfacing laser treatments are also helpful starting in one’s 30s when the first signs of skin aging show up. It can visibly reduce fine lines and small wrinkles. Beginning treatment at this point can stop lines from becoming deeper.

Do not wear makeup on the treated area for at least 24 hrs after treatment. Active skincare regimens such as Retin-A, glycolic acids, and Vitamin C should be avoided for at least 10 days after the procedure.

We usually advise a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer that’s formulated for post-laser skin. Steer clear of anything with harsh chemicals or active ingredients.

Those “black dots” are probably tiny scabs that develop after fractional ablative laser resurfacing. They’re a normal part of the healing process and will likely fall off, exposing new skin underneath.

The results of previous treatments may start to fade if you wait too long before your next laser session. It’s important to follow your provider’s recommendations for timing.