Some people are not as old as they feel or they look and some people look older than they really are. The appearance of skin defects, such as wrinkles, fine lines, acne scaring, and so on can wreak havoc on a person emotionally as well as physically. Self confidence begins to wane and individuals spend hours looking for the right makeup to cover up their pockmarks and wrinkles as well as the latest in over the counter creams, gels, ointments, and cleansers. One of the best options available is laser facial resurfacing. This non-invasive procedure utilizes an intense beam of light radiation along your skin. It can be used to tighten skin, remove any superficial lines and wrinkles, even out pigmentation, smooth out any rough skin, and improve the look of any scarring. The laser is focused right on the problem areas and can either be ablative of non-ablative. Ablative means that the laser destroys the epidermis and heats the dermis to stimulate new collagen growth. Non-ablative (which is what a majority of people go for) does not destroy the skin but heats it up to encourage new skin growth.

Prior to the start of laser facial rejuvenation, the doctor or a nurse will fully clean your face and then place a shield over your eyes to protect them from the laser. The doctor then passes the laser beam throughout the area needing treatment. Do not worry as the doctor has complete control of the laser, including where it goes and how deep it penetrates into the skin. There are a variety of laser treatment options and the doctor will describe which one will be used on you and why. Most laser facial rejuvenation procedures last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour depending on the size of the treated area as well as the laser being used.

Once the local anesthetic placed on the face wears off in several hours, you will begin to feel the area that was treated. Do not knock it or have anything bump into it. The skin will feel a bit raw and you might need over the counter analgesics to dull the discomfort once the local anesthesia wears off. You will have to cover the treated area with some antibiotic ointment and possibly a dressing. The doctor may also prescribe an oral antibiotic to prevent the possible onset of an infection.

It can take anywhere from seven to ten days for the skin to heal and up to six months for all the redness to completely fade. Always follow the instructions given by the doctor to ensure positive results.  To further guarantee beneficial results, it is advocated to remain out of the sun, not to make exaggerated facial movements, and gently wash and moisturize your face every day to prevent it from drying out.

Like with any other medical procedure, there are some side effects and complications associated with laser facial rejuvenation. Most side effects are temporary and include some swelling, weeping, and crusting of the skin within the first two weeks post-procedure. There will also be some redness that will last, as previously mentioned. Complications are extremely rare and only occur during the procedure or right after. These complications include skin infection, changes in skin coloration, scaring, and cod sores.