Laser Skin Peels

The patient looking for better results than microdermabrasion or light chemical peels can offer, yet, still has little time for the healing process.

Generally, Microdermabrasion only removes the outer layer (stratum corneum, 10-15 microns) of the skin. Although  Microdermabrasion is an ideal “polishing” procedure, more long-term visible effects require deeper peeling. The MicroLaserPeel is a minimal-to-full epidermal peel (4-50 microns). Because this procedure goes deeper into the epidermis, it is the perfect step between Microdermabrasion and deeper peels.

Typically, the procedure is repeated 2-4 times, spaced 6-8 weeks apart, but many peels may be done to achieve the desired result.

One procedure could be sufficient for at least 6 to12 months, but additional procedures can be performed as required. A package of three to four treatments may be best for you. This will be discussed during your consultation.

Smoother, healthier more vibrant skin. You will notice a significant and immediate change in skin texture and tightness.

A topical anesthetic, if necessary, is applied thirty to 45 minutes before the procedure.

No! MicroLaserPeel™ is NOT like a CO2 or deep chemical peel and requires nothing more than a protective ointment such as Aquaphor or Vaseline. This is used as a barrier to keep the air away from your skin while you grow new epithelium (like baby skin cells). You will probably use it for one to two days. After that, a moisturizer can be used.

The healing process varies from patient to patient but will generally take from two to four days. The procedure can be performed on Thursday or Friday and you can return to work the following Monday. Immediately following the procedure you will feel as if you have a bad sunburn. You will have minor sloughing and itchiness the following day. By day two, redness will begin to fade and by day three any redness can be easily covered by makeup.

We will advise you on how best to protect your skin to maintain the benefits you will see from your MicroLaserPeel.

Any area of your body can be treated. The most common areas are those most exposed to the damaging effects of sun light. The most popular treatments are for the face, neck, back of the hands, chest and shoulders.

Getting Started
Our physicians in a consultation determine an microlaser peel treatment plan for each new patient, accounting for the desired outcome and time available for healing. We will discuss pre op precautions, such as stopping retinoids and acid treatments 3 days prior and taking Valtrex if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores.

What to Expect
The procedure is gentle, non-invasive, and safe. There should be minimal or no discomfort, however this varies from patient to patient and depends on the depth of the treatment. An anesthetic cream applied 45 minutes prior to your treatment, may be used if so desired to minimize any treatment associated discomfort. Your physician will recommend the best options during consultation.

The treatment involves precise removal of the epidermis at a depth predetermined by your physician. Pinpoint bleeding may occur with deeper depths. Patients often describe a slight stinging sensation, like the snapping of a rubber band, in the treated areas. Most individuals find this to be very tolerable. Your procedure may take a few minutes to half an hour depending on the size of the area to be treated and the type of the procedure performed.

Erythema, edema, and a sunburn sensation may be noticed in the treatment area for up to twelve hours after treatment. This is a purely ablative procedure. Swelling should be present only as a short-term response. Patients undergoing 40-50 micron ablation may choose to sleep sitting upright the first night after the procedure to avoid swelling of facial tissues. Often tissue will peel or flake as a result of the ablation. Peeling or flaking usually occurs after 24 -48 hours.

It is important to follow your physician’s instructions. We will recommend skin care products and provide instructions on how to use them. These will minimize your risk of inflammation or redness and ensure the shortest healing time.

Within weeks, your treated skin will feel smoother, fine wrinkles and pores will be less noticeable, and sun spots or uneven pigmentation will fade. Results depend on your condition, the number of treatments, and the area treated. Your physician will provide you with complete information about the post treatment care and results.

You will be sensitive to ultra-violet light and you must avoid direct sun exposure until fully healed. Sun tanning and tanning beds should be avoided for 1 month before and after each BBL session. A broad spectrum sunblock with zinc oxide and/ or titanium dioxide as the primary ingredients should be used on a daily basis.

Most require multiple treatments.  This depends on the desired results and depth of treatment.  This peel can be adjusted for a few deep treatments with some downtime or multiple lighter treatments with less downtime.