Laser Skin Peeling & Resurfacing

How long will it take to recover?

Healing time will vary slightly from individual to individual and will also depend upon your treatment depth. Lighter peels may have only a day or two to recover (the ‘weekend peel’) while deeper peels will require around 5 days (for example, if the procedure is carried out on Thursday you can get back to work on Monday).

What should I expect after treatment?

With lighter peels there is redness and a very short recovery time, about a day or two. For Full Thickness Laser Resurfacing recovery may take 7 to 8 days. Your skin will have a residual pink or red colour that is readily covered by make-up and will resolve rapidly. Your physician will instruct you how best to care for your healing skin.

Will the procedure be uncomfortable?

The amount of discomfort varies from patient to patient. Your physician will discuss your anaesthesia options to properly manage any discomfort from the treatment. Usually, an anaesthetic cream applied for 2 hours before hand is all that is needed for lighter peels. For deeper peels where more advanced sun damage is being removed you are also given a relaxant and an analgesic (pain relieving) tablet before the treatment.

Is there a risk?

It is a remarkably safe and well tolerated treatment and side effects and complications with this type of treatment are very uncommon. By following the correct aftercare procedures prescribed by your physician, you will ensure excellent healing and good results.

What will happen during the procedure?

Your eyes will be protected with safety shields and the Profile’s laser beam will be delivered to the skin’s surface through a computer controlled device that automatically scans the area of your skin being treated. There is a fast rat-a-tat sound which is the sound of the laser beam vaporising the outer skin layers. Your procedure usually takes around 30 minutes and will vary according to the severity of the problem to be corrected and the depth of peeling required. A full Laser Resurfacing Procedure takes 60 to 90 minutes to perform.

What aftercare will I need?

Aftercare is relatively simple and it is important to follow your physician’s instructions. You will be given some products and instructions on how to use them. This will ensure the best comfort and shortest healing time. Make-up can be used in 1 to 5 days for lighter Peels and 7 to 9 days for a full Resurfacing Procedure. New skin will be very sensitive to ultra-violet light and you must avoid unnecessary sun exposure for one week. You need to cover your skin, wear a hat and use a good sun-screen if you go outdoors.