Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a trusted tool in cosmetic dermatology for renewing skin texture, softening fine lines and deep wrinkles, and reversing the visible effects of sun damage, all without the downtime of surgery. By delivering controlled light or heat energy to the skin, laser skin resurfacing stimulates new collagen production, helping fade hyperpigmentation, brown spots, age spots, and acne scars while restoring a smoother, more even-toned complexion. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green frequently incorporates laser skin resurfacing into her patients’ treatment plans to help them achieve clear, radiant, long-lasting results.

From fractional laser devices like Fraxel to more intensive options such as a CO2 laser, there are many technologies available for skin rejuvenation, and each is suited to different skin types, tones, and concerns. Deciding between ablative and non-ablative lasers, or whether IPL, chemical peels, or microneedling may be a better fit, requires an experienced provider who understands how each treatment interacts with the epidermis and dermis—patients throughout Manhattan and beyond trust this expertise to Dr. Michele Green.

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser vaporization, laser peel, or laser ablation, is a cosmetic procedure that enhances skin texture and tone, offering a more precise alternative to traditional dermabrasion for a more youthful look. Unlike plastic surgery, which alters facial appearance, laser skin resurfacing improves skin quality from within. These treatments are often used to address signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, mild skin laxity, facial redness, and acne scars. Ablative lasers remove the outer skin layers to stimulate collagen production, while non-ablative lasers target the dermis while preserving the outer layer. Many patients and providers prefer non-ablative laser treatments because they typically have shorter recovery times and fewer side effects.

Patients appreciate laser skin resurfacing for skin rejuvenation because it offers an affordable, safe, and effective alternative to plastic surgery. Although most laser treatments have minimal side effects, it is crucial to consult a highly trained and experienced medical professional to ensure the treatment matches your skin tone and type and to ensure safety, effectiveness, and optimal results. When you see board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will evaluate your skin and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine the most suitable laser treatment for your needs.

What does laser skin resurfacing do?

Laser skin resurfacing treatments aim to reduce the appearance of fine lines, deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, age spots, and sun damage, among other concerns. Different laser treatments use various forms of energy, serve distinct purposes, and target specific concerns. Lasers can stimulate collagen production and enhance skin cell turnover by removing the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, or by delivering radiofrequency, fractional, or light energy into the dermis, the middle layer. Some lasers may focus solely on hyperpigmentation or facial redness, while others can address multiple skin issues. Overall, laser skin resurfacing is an effective cosmetic procedure for comprehensive skin rejuvenation, resulting in clearer, smoother, and more youthful skin. To determine which laser treatment is best for your skin, consult a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to have her examine your skin concerns and recommend the most suitable lasers.

How does laser skin resurfacing work?

Laser skin resurfacing intentionally damages specific skin cells to create tiny injuries in targeted areas while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. Laser treatments can target both the superficial and deep layers of the skin, depending on the laser’s wavelength and the condition being treated. There are two main types of laser resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative laser treatments remove the outer skin layer and require longer recovery times. Non-ablative treatments use energy at specific wavelengths to heat the inner skin layer (dermis) while keeping the outer layer (epidermis) intact. As the skin heals from these micro-injuries, new collagen and skin cells develop in the treated area. These results reduce significant photodamage without surgery, helping improve wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and other signs of aging.

How are laser skin resurfacing treatments classified?

There are two types of lasers used for laser skin resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers stimulate new collagen growth by removing the skin’s outer layers. Common ablative lasers for skin rejuvenation include carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers and erbium lasers. Ablative lasers can produce impressive results after just one session; however, they carry a higher risk of side effects, including hyperpigmentation and scarring. They also require longer downtime, with full results seen after six weeks. Additionally, ablative lasers are often not recommended for patients with darker skin tones due to the increased risk of these side effects.

Non-ablative lasers create precise, controlled injuries in the middle layers of the skin to stimulate new collagen growth. These lasers heat the deeper layers without damaging the outer skin, resulting in effective skin rejuvenation with minimal recovery time. Popular non-ablative lasers include Fraxel Dual, VBeam, Clear + Brilliant, AlexTrivantage, and eMatrix. Although non-ablative laser treatments may seem less aggressive than ablative ones, they still deliver excellent results in skin renewal. Multiple sessions may be necessary, depending on the specific laser used and the severity of initial signs of aging, sun damage, or acne scars. The choice of laser for your skin resurfacing plan depends on your skin color, type, and the dermatologic concerns you want to address. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York, should be trusted to determine which lasers are best for skin rejuvenation.

Fractional lasers

A fractional laser is a cosmetic treatment that uses laser technology to rejuvenate the skin. Fractional lasers emit light energy in many targeted beams that penetrate the skin’s deeper layers. This controlled thermal injury stimulates new collagen production and reduces melanocyte pigmentation, or the pigmentation of skin cells containing melanin. Fractional lasers can be either ablative or non-ablative. Ablative lasers, such as CO2 lasers, remove the epidermis to stimulate collagen production and eliminate pigmentation. These lasers are highly effective but require longer recovery times and carry a higher risk of side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring. Non-ablative lasers, such as Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant, deliver laser energy to the deeper layers of the skin without damaging the epidermis, leading to skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime and side effects.

Types of non-ablative lasers used for skin rejuvenation

Fraxel Dual Laser for skin resurfacing

The Fraxel Dual laser is often called the ‘magic eraser’ for its ability to treat a range of skin concerns. It is a non-ablative laser that operates at two wavelengths — 1550 and 1927 nm — to improve skin texture and tone, respectively. The 1550 nm wavelength penetrates deeper layers of the skin, targeting fine lines, deep wrinkles, enlarged pores, enlarged oil glands, acne scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin texture. The 1927 nm wavelength primarily targets hyperpigmentation, uneven pigmentation, and sun damage by reaching the epidermal layers.

Fraxel, a fractional laser, treats only parts of the skin at a time, leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. This helps reduce downtime and improves the appearance of fine lines, deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, age spots, acne scars, and sun damage. Common side effects include mild redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treated area, which typically fade within 48 hours. Patients using the 1927 nm wavelength for sun damage may also experience mild peeling, resembling a ‘rough sandpaper’ texture, for about three to five days. While some results can be seen after one session, most patients need 3-6 treatments, each about four weeks apart, to achieve optimal skin rejuvenation, depending on their specific concerns.

VBeam Laser Treatment for redness and facial rosacea

The VBeam laser is the gold standard for removing visible redness. VBeam laser treatment uses a pulsed-dye laser to treat rosacea, spider veins, broken capillaries, vascular lesions, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and red acne scars or stretch marks. This laser operates at 595nm, specifically targeting skin cells with red pigment while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. For patient comfort, a Dynamic Cooling Device (TM) (DCD) cools the skin before each laser pulse, protecting it and preventing post-treatment bruising. The treatment takes only a few minutes, and since there is no downtime, you can apply makeup or return to work immediately afterward. Most patients need a series of treatments to achieve optimal skin rejuvenation results.

eMatrix Sublative Laser

The eMatrix laser is a distinctive treatment that uses bipolar radiofrequency energy to improve uneven skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks. Each pulse of the eMatrix laser delivers radiofrequency energy to the electrode matrix, causing skin injury and stimulating fibroblasts to initiate wound healing and produce new collagen. Most patients need a short series of 3-6 eMatrix laser sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, to achieve optimal skin rejuvenation. Patients with deep wrinkles or severe acne scars may require additional laser treatments to reach their desired results. The most common side effects include mild redness and swelling in the treated area, which usually fade within 48 hours after the procedure. Since the eMatrix laser is a “color-blind” laser, it is safe and effective for patients of all skin types and tones, including those with darker skin tones.

Clear + Brilliant Laser

The Clear + Brilliant laser is often called the “mini-Fraxel” because it can target fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, sun spots, acne scars, and enlarged pores. This laser uses fractionated energy to heat the inner layers of skin, stimulating the production of new collagen. Many patients find Clear + Brilliant beneficial because it is safe and effective for all skin types and tones. Additionally, there is no downtime after treatment, allowing patients to schedule sessions flexibly. To achieve the best cosmetic results, several treatments spaced about a month apart are recommended.

AlexTrivantage Laser to treat sun exposure

The AlexTrivantage laser from Candela is a gentle, non-ablative laser that effectively treats pigmented lesions, including liver spots, freckles, birthmarks, and unwanted tattoos. This laser combines 755nm Q-switched Alexandrite with 1064nm and 532nm Q-switched Nd: YAG lasers. These wavelengths help remove pigmentation from the treatment area and rejuvenate the skin. The light energy targets pigmentation in the dermis, destroying the pigment while leaving surrounding skin unharmed. The AlexTrivantage laser can be used on various areas, including the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, back, and legs. Treatment requires minimal downtime, and patients may need multiple sessions spaced at least four weeks apart, depending on the type and severity of the skin concern.

Thermage FLX for facial rejuvenation

Thermage FLX is the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening. Thermage effectively creates firmer, tighter skin and reduces sagging after just one session. During a Thermage treatment, radiofrequency energy is delivered to the skin to heat the dermis, causing existing collagen to contract and stimulating the production of new collagen. Thermage involves no downtime, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities after their session. Thermage can tighten loose skin on the face, neck, chest, décolletage, abdomen, thighs, and upper arms in a single session and is a great alternative for patients who do not want invasive cosmetic surgery. Results are typically visible 3 to 4 months post-treatment and can last up to 1.5 years. Patients usually undergo yearly treatments to maintain their results and achieve smoother, tighter skin.

Vivace RF Microneedling laser treatment

Vivace RF microneedling is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that combines two collagen-boosting methods — microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) — for comprehensive skin rejuvenation. Microneedling uses tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface, triggering the natural healing process and encouraging collagen growth in the epidermis. At the same time, RF energy is applied to the deeper skin layers to heat the dermis, promoting the production of new elastin and collagen. This combined treatment maximizes collagen production, improves skin texture, reduces acne scars, minimizes pore size, lessens fine lines and deep wrinkles, and brightens and evens skin tone. Dr. Green usually recommends a series of three Vivace treatments, spaced one month apart, for optimal skin rejuvenation. Most patients return for yearly maintenance sessions to maintain these results.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is not a traditional laser; it is a specialized technology that uses light energy to target various skin concerns. Also called photo rejuvenation or flashlamp therapy, IPL emits light across multiple wavelengths to the treatment area. IPL penetrates the dermis without damaging the epidermis, resulting in little or no downtime. This treatment reduces signs of photoaging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture and tone, rosacea, broken blood vessels, and mild skin laxity. A series of treatments is usually needed initially to achieve the best results, followed by regular maintenance sessions to maintain and improve outcomes.

Female treated with Restylane, Vbeam and eMatrix

What is CO2 laser skin resurfacing?

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove thin layers of skin and can also treat conditions such as warts. This promotes collagen production, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin. The treatment helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and scars; improve skin texture and tone; tighten loose skin; and treat acne scars and hyperpigmentation. It physically removes the outer layers of the skin by vaporizing the epidermis, creating micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing process, including new collagen growth. While this laser is highly effective for suitable candidates, it also involves a longer recovery period of one to two weeks, with final results taking 3 to 6 months to appear as collagen continues to develop. CO2 lasers, although effective, are not suitable for everyone. It is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist before treatment to ensure a CO2 laser is appropriate for your skin and to avoid adverse effects such as scarring or worsening hyperpigmentation.

Potential side effects of laser skin resurfacing treatment

The most common side effects of non-ablative laser skin resurfacing include mild redness, tenderness, and swelling, which typically resolve within a few days. Ablative laser skin resurfacing carries a higher risk of side effects because it removes the entire top layer of skin and may take two weeks or more to heal, depending on the laser type. Unwanted side effects, such as hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring, may occur if the wrong lasers or settings are used for a specific skin type, tone, or concern. Side effects of laser skin resurfacing can include:

• redness
• peeling
• dryness
• swelling
• milia
• acne breakouts
• increased photosensitivity
• oozing
• tenderness
• crusting
• hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin)
• hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin)
• burns
• scarring
• bacterial or viral infection
• exacerbation of herpes infection/cold sores

If you have a history of herpes or cold sores, it is best to inform your provider so they can prescribe Valtrex, an antiviral medication, to take for a week before your laser treatment to help prevent an outbreak. It is advisable to consult a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in laser skin resurfacing, rather than relying on inexperienced or unqualified providers at a medical spa, to ensure safety, effectiveness, and optimal skin rejuvenation. Choosing laser treatment from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City reduces the risk of adverse side effects.

Skin care after laser skin resurfacing treatment

The aftercare instructions following laser skin resurfacing vary depending on the specific procedure performed. Some laser treatments require avoiding exfoliation or harsh skin products for several days or up to a week afterward, while others do not require any downtime or special care. Regardless of the procedure, one of the most important aftercare steps is to limit sun exposure and apply adequate sun protection to the treated area, as laser skin resurfacing increases the skin’s photosensitivity, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

After laser treatment, use gentle skincare products, such as a mild cleanser and moisturizer. Avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and active ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and retinol, as they can irritate your skin. It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure to prevent complications. Wear sun-protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Dr. Green recommends layering two types of sunscreen: a chemical one followed by a mineral one for optimal protection. When you receive laser skin resurfacing with Dr. Green at her private dermatology practice in New York City, you’ll receive all necessary aftercare instructions to help you achieve the best possible skin rejuvenation and maintain it, so you can look and feel your best.

Which type of laser resurfacing is best?

Patients often wonder which laser treatment is ‘best’ for skin rejuvenation. The reality is that no single laser type is inherently superior for revitalizing skin. Different laser devices and settings are required to safely and effectively treat patients with various skin tones and types. Because of this, it’s crucial to consult a board-certified dermatologist with extensive training in laser skin resurfacing, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience offering her patients top non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including laser skin resurfacing. During your initial consultation at her private dermatology office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, you’ll have the chance to discuss your individual concerns and aesthetic goals. She will review your medical history and examine the treatment area to determine the most appropriate laser treatment for your specific needs.

Combining laser skin resurfacing with other non-invasive treatment options

Laser skin resurfacing treatments can be combined with other non-invasive skin procedures, such as Botox injections and dermal fillers, offering a great alternative to facelifts or other plastic surgeries. Many patients have multiple skin concerns they want to address, and a combined approach is ideal for achieving full-face rejuvenation. When discussing your concerns with Dr. Green, she will develop a treatment plan that includes laser skin resurfacing and other cosmetic procedures to help you achieve clear, radiant, and smooth skin.

Botox is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures worldwide, known for reducing lines and wrinkles. It effectively diminishes the appearance of dynamic fine lines caused by repetitive facial movements, including forehead lines from raising the eyebrows, glabellar lines from furrowing the brow, and crow’s feet from smiling or squinting. Botox injections usually take effect within two weeks and last 3 to 4 months. Most patients have regular maintenance sessions to maintain optimal results.

Dermal fillers have become increasingly popular for their simplicity, minimal side effects, no downtime, and consistently impressive results. They restore lost volume, enhance facial contours and features, reduce age-related wrinkles, and smooth acne scars. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that provides vital hydration and skin suppleness. Sculptra is a liquid filler containing poly-L-lactic acid that creates a supportive structure for new collagen production. The duration of dermal filler results depends on the specific filler used and the patient’s metabolism. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last 6 to 12 months after a single session, while Sculptra can last up to 2 years after an initial series of injections. Using dermal fillers, Dr. Green can target specific facial areas to restore lost volume, smooth fine lines, and plump the skin for a natural-looking, youthful appearance that lasts.

Before and after Vbeam: 2 months

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment

Is laser resurfacing good for skin?

Yes — for most patients, laser skin resurfacing is an effective way to improve overall skin health and appearance. By stimulating collagen production, laser treatments can smooth skin texture, fade blemishes, and reduce hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne scars, while giving the complexion a healthier, more even glow. Because results depend on selecting the right laser for your skin tone and concerns, Dr. Michele Green evaluates each patient individually before recommending a treatment plan.

Who is and is not a good candidate for laser resurfacing?

Good candidates for laser skin resurfacing are generally healthy adults bothered by sun damage, fine lines, acne scars, or uneven skin texture who do not have active skin infections, severe acne, or a recent tan in the treatment area. Patients with certain autoimmune conditions, a history of keloid scarring, or unrealistic expectations about surgical-level results may not be ideal candidates for laser treatment. Some patients seeking more dramatic change consult plastic surgeons about a facelift, but many find that laser skin resurfacing with Dr. Green provides meaningful rejuvenation without surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical history to determine whether laser skin resurfacing is right for you.

Is laser resurfacing safe for darker skin tones?

Some ablative lasers, including many CO2 laser treatments, carry a higher risk of hyper- and hypopigmentation in patients with deeper skin tones, so they are not always recommended for these patients. Non-ablative options, such as eMatrix, which uses radiofrequency energy rather than light-based heat, and certain fractional laser settings, are considered safer, “color-blind” choices for a wider range of skin tones. Because laser safety depends heavily on the provider’s skill, patients with darker skin should seek a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, with extensive experience selecting the appropriate laser and settings for their skin type.

What is the best age for laser resurfacing?

There is no single ideal age for laser skin resurfacing because the right timing depends on your skin concerns rather than a specific birthday. Many patients begin non-ablative treatments such as Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant in their late 20s or 30s as a preventive measure, while others wait until their 40s, 50s, or beyond to address deeper wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, or age spots. Dr. Green tailors each laser skin resurfacing plan to the patient’s skin, not their age.

What’s the difference between CO2, Erbium, and Fraxel lasers?

CO2 and erbium lasers are ablative devices that remove the epidermis to stimulate deep collagen production. CO2 lasers penetrate more deeply and typically require longer recovery, while erbium lasers are gentler and have a shorter healing period. Fraxel, by contrast, is a non-ablative fractional laser that heats the dermis in tiny columns without removing the skin’s surface, making it appropriate for treating fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars with far less downtime. Dr. Green will recommend the laser best suited to your skin tone, concerns, and tolerance for downtime.

Laser resurfacing vs microneedling vs chemical peels — which is better?

No single treatment is universally “better” than the others, because laser skin resurfacing, microneedling, and chemical peels each work differently and address different concerns. Laser resurfacing uses light energy to heat the skin and boost collagen production; microneedling creates micro-injuries with fine needles to trigger healing; and chemical peels use acids such as glycolic acid to exfoliate the outer skin layers and improve tone. Many patients achieve their best results by combining these treatments under Dr. Green’s guidance rather than relying on just one.

CO2 laser treatment for Acne Scars

How do you prepare for laser skin resurfacing?

Before laser skin resurfacing, patients should avoid sun exposure, tanning, and certain active skincare ingredients, such as retinol, for about a week, and disclose any history of cold sores so Dr. Green can prescribe a preventive antiviral if needed. It’s also important to stop blood-thinning medications and supplements as directed and to arrive with clean, makeup-free skin on the day of treatment. Choosing an experienced, board-certified dermatologist rather than an aesthetician at a medspa is one of the most important preparation steps, since proper laser selection is essential for safety and results.

Does laser skin resurfacing hurt?

Most non-ablative laser treatments cause only mild discomfort, often described as a rubber band snapping against the skin. A topical anesthetic can be applied beforehand to minimize sensation. More intensive ablative treatments, such as a CO2 laser, are more likely to require local anesthesia; in some cases, general anesthesia may be considered for extensive treatment areas. Dr. Green will discuss comfort options with you to make your laser skin resurfacing session as easy as possible.

What is the downtime and recovery like?

Downtime after laser skin resurfacing depends entirely on the laser used. Non-ablative treatments such as VBeam and Clear + Brilliant have little to no recovery time, whereas Fraxel and eMatrix may cause mild redness and swelling for about 48 hours. Ablative laser treatments remove the outer layer of skin and require a longer recovery period of one to two weeks or more, with full results appearing over several months as new collagen develops.

How long does the redness from skin resurfacing last?

Redness after non-ablative laser skin resurfacing, such as Fraxel or eMatrix, typically fades within 48 hours, though some patients may experience mild peeling for a few more days. After ablative treatments, such as a CO2 laser, redness can last longer, sometimes several weeks, as the skin fully heals. Gentle skincare and sun protection can help calm redness more quickly.

When can I wear makeup and go in the sun again after laser skin resurfacing?

Patients who receive treatments with no downtime, such as VBeam or Thermage, can typically wear makeup and resume normal activities immediately. After Fraxel or eMatrix, most patients wait until mild redness and swelling subside, usually within a day or two, before applying makeup. Limit sun exposure for several weeks after any laser treatment, and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect healing skin.

What are the disadvantages of laser resurfacing?

While laser skin resurfacing offers many benefits, it also has drawbacks. Ablative treatments involve significant downtime and a higher risk of side effects such as scarring or hypopigmentation. Even non-ablative lasers typically require a series of sessions, not a single visit, to achieve full results. Laser resurfacing is also not the right choice for every skin condition, such as melasma, where laser heat can sometimes worsen pigmentation.

How many laser skin resurfacing sessions will I need?

Most non-ablative laser treatments require an initial series of three to six sessions, spaced about four weeks apart, to achieve optimal skin rejuvenation. Ablative laser resurfacing, by contrast, is more intensive and often yields significant results after a single session, though healing takes longer. The exact number of sessions depends on your skin type, tone, and the severity of your concerns, which Dr. Green will assess during your consultation.

How long until you see results from laser skin resurfacing?

New collagen production typically takes about three months to develop after laser skin resurfacing is fully complete. However, many patients notice some improvement in skin texture and tone soon after their first session. Ablative treatments tend to show final results within three to six months, while non-ablative treatments show gradual improvement over a full series of sessions. Dr. Green will let you know what timeline to expect based on the laser and treatment plan chosen for you.

Does laser resurfacing tighten skin?

Yes, laser skin resurfacing can improve skin tightening by stimulating new collagen production, which restores structural support beneath the skin’s surface. For patients whose primary concern is loose or sagging skin, Dr. Green often recommends Thermage FLX, a radiofrequency treatment regarded as the gold standard for non-surgical skin tightening. Results continue to improve over several months as new collagen builds, leaving the skin firmer and smoother.

Can laser resurfacing be done on the body, not just the face?

Absolutely — many laser skin resurfacing treatments are just as effective on the neck, chest, hands, arms, back, and legs as on the face. For example, the AlexTrivantage laser is often used to treat sun damage, liver spots, and birthmarks on the body. At the same time, Thermage and Vivace RF microneedling can tighten and rejuvenate skin on the abdomen, thighs, and upper arms. Dr. Green will help you determine which areas of the body could benefit from laser treatment.

How long does laser skin resurfacing last?

Results from laser skin resurfacing can last for years, especially when patients protect their skin with daily sunscreen and avoid further sun damage in the treated area. Many patients opt for annual maintenance sessions with Dr. Green to preserve their results and continue improving skin texture and tone. Because laser treatment does not halt the natural aging process, ongoing care helps keep results looking their best.

How much does laser resurfacing cost?

The cost of laser skin resurfacing varies by the type of laser used, the number of sessions required, and the provider’s experience. Ablative treatments generally cost more per session than non-ablative options, though non-ablative treatments often require multiple visits to achieve comparable results. During your consultation, Dr. Green will help develop a treatment plan and provide a cost estimate tailored to your goals.

Who performs laser resurfacing?

Board-certified cosmetic dermatologists, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, offer laser skin resurfacing treatments. While these procedures can also be done by an aesthetician at a MedSpa, it’s essential to choose a board-certified dermatologist with the expertise and experience to recommend and safely operate the laser best suited for your skin tone, type, and concerns. This ensures safety, effectiveness, and optimal skin rejuvenation results. Dr. Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing top non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including laser skin resurfacing, to discerning men and women worldwide.

Get started with laser skin resurfacing treatment today.

Laser skin resurfacing remains one of the most effective and versatile tools in cosmetic dermatology, capable of addressing fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, sun-damaged skin, and more with minimal downtime when the right laser is selected. Whether you’re drawn to a fractional laser like Fraxel, a color-blind option like eMatrix, or an ablative CO2 laser for more dramatic renewal, success depends on working with a provider who understands your skin type, tone, and goals. Dr. Michele Green brings more than 25 years of experience to every laser skin resurfacing consultation, helping patients throughout New York City achieve clear, radiant, healthy-looking skin.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist in New York City with over 25 years of experience treating discerning patients worldwide with advanced, non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including laser skin resurfacing. She takes a holistic, less-is-more approach to skin rejuvenation. She has been consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times as one of the city’s leading dermatologists. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and develop a personalized laser skin resurfacing plan at her private Upper East Side office, please call 212-535-3088 or contact us online.