How effective is laser skin resurfacing for sun-damaged skin?

The procedure removes or heats selected layers of skin so newer skin can appear smoother and more even. It may reduce the visible effect of photoaging, including mottled pigmentation, roughness and fine lines. Ablative treatments generally create more resurfacing and recovery, while non-ablative approaches work more gradually with less disruption. Laser treatment does not erase every sign of ageing or prevent new sun damage.

A dermatologist should examine the skin before choosing a device, settings and treatment depth. Tell them about tanning, a history of cold sores, medicines that affect healing and any tendency to develop dark marks. After treatment, gentle cleansing, prescribed moisturising and strict protection from sunlight help the skin recover. Do not pick peeling skin or restart irritating products until your clinician says it is appropriate.

Contact the treating clinic if pain, swelling, blistering, oozing or redness is worsening rather than settling. Seek prompt assessment for fever, spreading warmth, pus or eye symptoms after facial treatment. A changing, bleeding or non-healing spot should be examined separately, because resurfacing is not a substitute for checking a suspicious lesion.

Ask which signs of photoaging the proposed laser is intended to address, what recovery will involve, and how your skin tone affects the risk of temporary darkening or lightening. Ask whether a staged plan, topical treatment or another procedure would better match your goals.