Laser Resurfacing: Minimally Invasive Alternative to Surgery and Injections for Facial Rejuvenation
February 15, 2025
Non-surgical treatments to reverse signs of aging like deep wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin are highly sought after today as many individuals prefer to avoid injectables such as Botox and dermal filler in their anti-aging quest. Laser skin treatments are a modern alternative for skin rejuvenation and correcting signs of aging without significant downtime, injecting anything into the face, and, maybe best of all, without emptying your wallet. Laser resurfacing focuses on improving and repairing the skin rather than restructuring the face. When considering laser resurfacing for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation, it's important to understand the technology and the different types of resurfacing options.
What is Laser Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing utilizes controlled energy (heat) and intense light to create controlled injury to the skin, forcing the body to stimulate collagen, elastin, and new healthy skin cells to repair the skin. The result is a healthier, rejuvenated appearance and younger appearance. Laser resurfacing at Natology in Calgary is most commonly used to improve deep scarring, discolouration, fine lines, deeper wrinkles, and surface imperfections.
What Can Laser Resurfacing Treat?
Most clients at Natology undergo laser resurfacing to improve the appearance of:
Lines and deep wrinkles
Pore size
Acne scarring
Uneven pigmentation
Redness/rosacea
Surface imperfections
Uneven tone
Texture
Overall dullness
Ablative Laser vs. Non-ablative Laser
There are two categories of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. The type of laser treatment used depends on the skin concern and the client’s available downtime afterwards. Ablative treatments are more invasive and offer a dramatic and often quick result, while non-ablative treatments have less downtime and are best used for gentle enhancement of the skin such as complexion brightening, targeting mild blemishes and softening texture.
Ablative Laser Treatments remove the top layer of skin, making for a longer recovery time but offering dramatic results. Ablative lasers are typically used for deep scar correction (such as acne), texture improvement, and reducing the depth of wrinkles.
Custom Laser Resurfacing (Deep Fractional + Micro Laser Peel)
Fractional resurfacing is an ablative laser treatment used to dramatically improve the appearance of acne scarring, deep wrinkles, and firm the skin. Fractional resurfacing safely removes the top layer of skin, creating controlled injury and forcing the renewal of skin cells, elastin, and collagen production to repair the skin. Generally, a series of 3 treatments is recommended for best results, though improvement is often seen after just one treatment.
Non-Ablative Laser Treatments deliver controlled heat to the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen evening out the skin tone, minimizing redness, and providing an overall bright and healthy appearance to the skin. The recovery time is less for non-ablative treatments.
Micro Laser Peel
A micro laser peel is a non-ablative treatment used to fade pigmentation, rid mild blemishes, and brighten the skin. A micro laser peel delivers controlled heat below the surface of the skin to prompt collagen production with each treatment and deliver gradual rejuvenation to the skin. A series of 3 treatments is recommended for best results.
Post-Treatment Considerations
Depending on the depth of the laser, post-treatment care will vary. Redness, swelling, skin sensitivity, dryness and peeling are all common and normal effects after any laser resurfacing treatment. The depth and intensity of the laser will determine recovery time, but a consultation to discuss treatment options, risks and aftercare is always necessary before undergoing laser resurfacing.
Complimentary Treatments for Anti-Aging
Laser resurfacing treatments can be combined with other treatments to further enhance your results and reach your skin goals. When it comes to anti-aging, it’s all about stimulating collagen and elastin production to shed a few years off the skin. Some complementary treatments that work well alongside laser resurfacing include:
Microneedling: Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that works by creating micro-injury to the skin using tiny needles, prompting a healing response. Collagen and new skin cells result in smoother, firmer skin and a reduction in pore size and minor scarring.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels work by applying a specially formulated chemical solution to the skin's surface, which initiates controlled exfoliation. The chemicals in the solution, typically acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or other active compounds, break down the bonds between old, damaged skin cells on the outermost layer of the skin. This process triggers the shedding of these cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin beneath. The result is a rejuvenated complexion with improved texture, reduced fine lines, and a more even skin tone.
Dermalinfusion: A dermalinfusion is a fully customizable and relaxing treatment to address a wide variety of skin concerns such as wrinkles and acne. Its patented 3-in-1 technology infuses the skin with serums at the moment of exfoliation, which results in greater serum absorption and retention, giving the skin a plumped, hydrated, and nourished result. Dermalinfusions are an excellent option for mature skin types as it’s harder to retain hydration as we age, which contributes to the loss of facial volume and a bright complexion.
Click here to explore combination anti-aging treatment packages
Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Right for You?
Laser resurfacing is a minimally invasive treatment that can work wonders for reducing wrinkle depth, sun spots, scarring, and sagging skin on its own or alongside complementary treatments to amplify your results. There is no surgery, needles, or injections involved, making laser resurfacing a holistic option to rejuvenate the skin and shed a few years off.
Schedule a complimentary consultation at Natology to learn more about laser resurfacing.
References
Willson, A. (2024). Fresh face for spring: Can laser treatments rejuvenate and refresh your look?
Mayo Clinic. Laser Resurfacing.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-resurfacing/about/pac-20385114
Mount Sinai. Laser Resurfacing.
