Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is generally well tolerated, but your comfort level can depend on the type of laser used and how deep the treatment goes. Lighter, non-ablative treatments often feel like a series of warm pinpricks or a rubber band snapping against the skin; noticeable, but manageable. For deeper resurfacing, some patients may experience more heat or discomfort, but at Luminance, we take every precaution to make the process as smooth as possible.

Before the procedure, a topical numbing cream is applied to reduce sensation, and your provider may also use cooling devices or calming serums throughout the treatment to keep your skin comfortable. Most clients describe the experience as mildly uncomfortable at most, and any lingering heat or sensitivity usually fades within a few hours. If needed, we’ll give you aftercare instructions and product recommendations to soothe the skin and support recovery right away.

The number of laser skin resurfacing sessions you’ll need depends on several factors, including your skin type, your specific concerns, the type of laser used, and how aggressive your treatment is. Many patients see visible improvements after just one session, especially when targeting mild to moderate sun damage or fine lines; however, more complex skin concerns, like deep acne scarring, uneven tone, or advanced aging, may require a series of 2 to 4 treatments, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart.

Laser skin resurfacing works by removing old, damaged skin cells and stimulating your body to produce fresh collagen and new skin. Because this regeneration process takes time, you’ll likely begin noticing your first results about 7 to 10 days after your treatment, once redness, swelling, and peeling subside. Your skin will begin to appear brighter, smoother, and more even in tone.

But here’s the exciting part: results continue to improve over several weeks, with the most dramatic changes often becoming visible around 6 to 12 weeks post-treatment. That’s when collagen production really kicks in, giving your skin a firmer, more youthful appearance.

Yes, combining laser skin resurfacing with other aesthetic treatments can actually enhance your results and target multiple concerns at once. Many of our clients choose to pair resurfacing with Botox, dermal fillers, PRP therapy, microneedling, or chemical peels to address volume loss, wrinkles, pigmentation, or dullness simultaneously. Depending on your treatment plan, some services can be done during the same session, while others may be scheduled separately to allow for proper healing.

Laser skin resurfacing is considered a very safe treatment when performed by experienced professionals, but like any procedure, it does come with some potential side effects. Most patients experience temporary redness, swelling, dryness, and peeling in the days following treatment. These symptoms are part of your skin’s natural healing process and typically resolve within one to two weeks, depending on the intensity of the session.

Less common risks may include hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, especially for individuals with deeper skin tones or those who do not use sun protection properly during recovery. In rare cases, blistering, scarring, or infection can occur, but these risks are significantly minimized with proper pre-treatment screening, post-treatment care, and an experienced provider like those at Luminance.