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Is Laser Resurfacing Permanent?

Laser resurfacing for lines and wrinkles is not permanent.

More info: Though the laser skin resurfacing procedure produces long lasting results, the natural aging process as well as behaviors that caused the initial fine lines and wrinkles will reappear over time.

How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?

Laser skin resurfacing works by destroying the superficial layers of the skin, using a pulsating beam of light from an ablative laser. This uncovers a less wrinkled or less scarred layer of skin, which is then exposed to heat to stimulate growth.

If a less invasive procedure is indicated, a nonablative laser may be used. The nonablative laser does not remove the skin layers. It simply stimulates the growth of collagen and tightens the underlying skin.

Treatment with a nonablative laser requires less recovery time but is not as effective as ablative laser skin resurfacing.

What Skin Problems Does Laser Resurfacing Successfully Address?

Laser resurfacing can successfully address many skin problems.  The CO2 laser, which uses a pulsed light or continuous light to repair damage on the skin's surface works for scars, warts, birthmarks, skin cancer and wrinkles. With this type of laser, there is minimal tissue damage to surrounding areas with a recovery time of up to two weeks.

Erbium laser resurfacing is used on deeper wrinkles on the body or face. There is minimal damage to surrounding skin. Side effects include swelling, redness and bruising. Though this laser reaches deeper into the skin than the CO2 laser, the recovery time is generally less than a week.