Laser Skin Resurfacing with Dr. Jacob Rispler

Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Resurfacing?

Thanks to new laser technology and innovative techniques, almost anyone may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing.

A consultation with a board-certified dermatologist with extensive training and knowledge in laser skin procedures can help determine which type of laser is best for your skin type. It's also a good time to discuss your skin goals and expectations and learn what to expect—or not expect—from laser resurfacing.

Laser Resurfacing Can Be Used to Treat:

• Acne scars and other types of scars
• Sun damage, such as brown spots
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin
• Sagging skin
• Pre-cancers

The Benefits of Laser Resurfacing Include:

• Younger looking skin
• Improved skin tone and complexion
• Increased collagen production
• Little or no downtime after treatment

How Laser Resurfacing Works

Laser resurfacing uses targeted pulses of light to remove damaged areas of skin, layer by layer. Different types of lasers are optimized for different skin types and concerns.

One or more types of lasers may be used to treat the skin depending on the concern being treated and your skin type.

The different lasers that can be used for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation include:

• CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser
• IPL (intense pulsed light)
• Erbium
• Pico
• Radiofrequency

How Long Does it Take?

Depending on the condition being treated, a single session can take anywhere from one to three hours and one or more sessions may be needed.

The good news is that newer lasers are more effective than older technology so fewer treatments are often needed to achieve significant results.

What to Expect After Treatment

Results: Even if you require more than one treatment session, you'll see results after the first treatment. Brown spots and other discoloration, broken capillaries, and acne scars can often be completely and permanently removed.

Recovery: Recovery time varies depending on the type of laser and treatment. Ablative treatments — which penetrate deeper — take longer to heal than non-ablative treatments. Sun protection is important after laser resurfacing. Your dermatologist will let you know what to expect and how to care for your skin while it heals.

Laser Resurfacing Risks

There's some risk of infection when you remove layers of skin, especially the deeper you go. Skin redness is another risk and can last up to six months depending on the type of laser used.

CareCredit for Laser Resurfacing

CareCredit can be used to finance laser skin resurfacing,** as well as other cosmetic and dermatologic treatments and procedures at locations in the CareCredit network including:

• Fillers and injectables
• Chemical peels
• Microdermabrasion
• Acne treatments
• Mohs surgery and other FDA-approved skin cancer procedures
• Coolsculpting®
• Laser hair removal
• Dermatologist-approved skin care products

The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for dermatology visits, over-the-counter treatments, and prescription medications at locations within the CareCredit network.** Start investing in your skin today and apply for the CareCredit credit card. Find a dermatologist near you that accepts CareCredit and continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go, and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts, and videos.

Author Bio

Adrienne Santos-Longhurst is a writer who has been covering health and lifestyle for almost two decades. She's written extensively on physical and mental health conditions and treatments, as well as fitness, beauty, and relationships. She's best known for her empathetic and informative pieces for Healthline, Insider, Medical News Today, and more.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Jacob Rispler is a board certified dermatologist, and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. He has three practices in Southern California and attracts patients from around the world.