Ablative Laser vs Non-Ablative: Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment
All you need to know
There are various ways to protect the skin and remove age spots, with one of the most common methods being laser resurfacing. It is an aesthetic process that uses ablative lasers or non-ablative lasers to treat minor facial flaws, such as spots and wrinkles, by removing layers of skin, resulting in skin rejuvenation once the skin heals.
Keep on reading to find out more about laser resurfacing treatment. We have covered the different types of laser resurfacing treatment, the process, the aftercare, the downtime, where to get one done in Malaysia, possible side effects, and more.
Disclaimer: The Beauty Insider platform does not promote or support any specific treatment. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only, and we strongly advise all readers to thoroughly research and consult with a doctor accredited by the Ministry of Health before undergoing any aesthetic or medical procedures.
What Is Laser Resurfacing Treatment?
Laser resurfacing is a facial treatment that uses a short, concentrated pulsating beam of laser light to reduce facial wrinkles and skin irregularities, such as blemishes or acne scars using lasers.
What’s more, the treatment directs the light to the specific affected area and removes the skin layer by layer. This procedure is also called lasabrasion, laser peel, or laser vaporisation by dermatologists.
Based on Mayo Clinic, laser resurfacing treatment is divided into two types, which are either ablative or non-ablative lasers. Both have their own sets of pros and cons. So, it is important to understand the difference so that you can pick the right one for you.
Moreover, if you are wondering about the difference between laser skin resurfacing and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photo rejuvenation, they work differently. Both treatments are designed to address signs of ageing or skin damage, including fine wrinkles and acne scars, but laser resurfacing targets deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production.
Ablative Lasers vs Non-Ablative Lasers
Ablative lasers remove the top layer of the damaged skin using either carbon dioxide (CO2) or Erbium lasers. The CO2 lasers are used to get rid of scars, warts, and deep wrinkles, whereas Erbium lasers are used for finer lines along with other superficial skin concerns.
Both CO2 and Erbium lasers remove outside layers of the skin. Ablative laser resurfacing also stimulates collagen production to heal the skin. Moreover, this laser treatment mainly addresses the epidermis layer. Plus, ablative lasers could be used on a specific patch of the skin.
Non-ablative lasers work on the epidermis layer. It is non-invasive, as it leaves the epidermis layer alone. It produces heat in the dermis layer of the skin to encourage the production of collagen. Non-ablative lasers cover the whole face instead of targeting a particular spot.
Broadly speaking, both ablative and non-ablative laser treatments use laser lights to remove damaged skin and encourage collagen production to heal the skin. But with ablative lasers, you can remove a specific patch of the skin, non-ablative lasers, on the other hand, don’t remove any skin layers.
Non-ablative lasers are a type of laser suitable for those who have skin problems relating to issues like the signs of ageing skin, wrinkles, age spots, loss of skin elasticity, and firming. Meanwhile, ablative lasers are suitable for those who want to address skin complexion and suffering from acne scars.
Both CO2 and Erbium YAG lasers are both used in skin resurfacing treatments to target various skin concerns, such as wrinkles, scars, and uneven skin texture.
Who Should Consider Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments?
If you have fine lines, wrinkles, and shallow scars from acne, or even dry patches and uneven skin tone, then you may be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing. Laser skin treatment is also suitable for those who want to have younger-looking skin.
It’s a misconception that laser skin resurfacing is not suitable for those with dark skin. People with lighter skin tones are often good candidates because they carry a reduced risk for hyperpigmentation but an experienced dermatologist would know to work the lasers around any skin tones.
However, this treatment is not for all skin types, such as those with severe acne. According to WebMD, if you have active acne or sagging skin, you may not be a suitable candidate for laser skin resurfacing. You should discuss whether the treatment is right for you by consulting with the doctor before having the procedure done.
What To Expect From The Laser Resurfacing Treatment?
Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure, so you don’t need to overnight at the clinic or hospital. After an assessment of your medical history, current physical condition, and desired results, your doctor will decide which type of laser resurfacing treatment is suitable for you.
Cleveland Clinic mentions that, before starting the treatment, the areas of the face to be treated will be numbed with a local anaesthetic, while general anaesthesia may be used if the entire face is being treated.
During ablative laser resurfacing, an intense laser will penetrate into the skin. The laser beam will destroy the outer layer of skin (epidermis) at the same time will heat the underlying skin (dermis). This will cause collagen fibres to shrink.
As the wound heals, new skin will form over the dead skin, and the new skin will be firmer. Ablative laser resurfacing typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing normally takes between 15 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated. An hour before the treatment, the dermatologist will numb your eyes and skin with a topical anaesthetic.
Moreover, non-ablative laser won’t remove the outer layer of skin, so to protect the outer layer, the doctor will apply a water-based gel. The laser will damage the old collagen beneath the skin and stimulates the growth of new collagen. Additionally, new collagen will help with your skin tone and appearance.
Unlike in ablative treatments, no skin is removed during the non-ablative process. So, the recovery time is faster. But if you are undergoing ablative laser treatments, you will need to go for a series of treatments scheduled over the course of weeks or months.
What Is The Downtime For Laser Resurfacing Treatment?
For the ablative laser, the recovery time is generally fast. After the treatment, the treated areas will turn much darker, a little like the dried chickenpox scab. It usually takes a few days, probably like four to five days for it to slowly turn into finer dots and flake away.
For the non-ablative laser treatment, the downtime is actually is less than for ablative laser, so you won’t get the dark patches as you would get from ablative treatments. That said, generally, non-ablative lasers can turn the skin orange-reddish for two to three days.
Usually, if it is your first time going in for a laser resurfacing treatment, the dermatologist will advise you on that. Additionally, different skin reacts differently, so it is hard to say the exact time your skin would take to recover. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice and be patient.
The Side Effects Of Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment
The most common side effects of ablative laser resurfacing, are swelling and redness that typically would last for a few hours or days. Since it is an open wound, you can potentially get a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection.
Some people may even experience a change in skin tone. The skin may become darker than normal or lighter than normal. Ablative laser resurfacing also poses a slight risk of scarring. But with proper aftercare, it should heal in a week.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing, on the other hand, can also cause bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. If you have darker skin, this type of laser resurfacing treatment can also make your skin become temporarily darker due to the hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, you will experience mild swelling and redness that typically would last for a few hours or days. Even though it is not common, some people experience blistering and scarring from non-ablative laser treatments.
Make sure to follow your doctor’s advice on aftercare procedures. Your skin needs time to heal. So, don’t freak out and stay calm while your skin is healing. If any of the above conditions persist for more than two weeks, go to your doctor immediately.
How To Take Care Of The Skin After A Laser Resurfacing Treatment?
It is important to keep your new skin well-moisturised. Be sure to use an oil-free moisturiser, and if you are using makeup, opt for oil-free products to minimise redness.
Try to avoid direct contact with sunlight, as it will only worsen the redness, swelling and itchiness. Make sure to use a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen that has zinc oxide and an SPF of 30 or higher. These sunscreens can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Here are the sunscreens recommended by dermatologists in Malaysia.
How Much Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost?
Ablative treatment can cost anywhere between RM50 to 80 per area, and non-ablative could cost up to RM500. We recommended you try a session first and not commit to any package deal because we do not know how your skin will react to the treatment.
Where To Get Laser Resurfacing Treatment In Malaysia?
We have listed 15 clinics and centres in Malaysia that offer the treatment.
1. My Bliss Clinic
Let’s start our list with My Bliss Clinic. This clinic provides a variety of services covering a wide range of conditions, treatments, and procedures in medical and aesthetic dermatology. Additionally, it offers Dynamis Resurfacing Laser Treatment, a cosmetic procedure that uses the Fotona SP Dynamis laser machine. Utilising fractional ablative Erbium:YAG laser technology, it targets fine lines and wrinkles.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, fillers, thread lift |
| Address | Lot 1&2, Level G2 Publika, Jln Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Saturday: 10:30 am – 6 pm Sunday: Closed |
| Contact Details | +603-2300 0268 |
book now with 
2. Dr Alice Total Wellness Center and Ageless Medispa
Helmed by Datuk Dr Alice Prethima, Dr Alice Total Wellness Center and Ageless Medispa offers a range of aesthetic services. They are known to provide several laser resurfacing treatments like InfiniSkin +, Smartxide Laser, and Fotona Laser. During the laser skin resurfacing treatment, the Infiniskin gold-plated microneedles will be applied to the targeted area. Then, radiofrequency waves are emitted to the deepest layers of the skin tissues. This treatment can be combined with Fotona laser or Smartxide laser.
The Fotona laser therapy incorporates two different wavelengths, which are combined to deliver a single laser treatment. Hence, it can target the surface and deeper layers of skin tissues. Plus, the Fotona laser also promotes collagen production in both layers and addresses overall skin conditions including saggy skin and pigment blemishes. In fact, it can also be used for tattoo removal. Both Fotona laser and Infiniskin treatments can be combined to address mild skin issues.
Whereas the Smartxide laser therapy uses radiofrequency waves and fractional CO2 laser to stimulate collagen production. This treatment is suitable for those who want to enhance the overall skin texture, minimise the appearance of scars and pigmentation. Additionally, it can also treat scars, blemishes and other skin issues. The price for these treatments varies depending on the skin condition. With skilled medical practitioners, they will ensure you attain the preferred outcomes.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, fillers, facials |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
3. Elegance Clinic
Formerly known as Skin Medic Puchong, Elegance Clinic offers laser and medical aesthetic services. The clinic is led by Dr Tan Wei Wei, an Aesthetic LCP Holder accredited by the Ministry of Health Malaysia. For those seeking a laser skin rejuvenation procedure, the clinic also offers Fractional CO2 Laser to address signs of ageing. Moreover, the clinic also provides treatments for skin, face, body, and hair concerns, including HIFU and fillers.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, HIFU, fillers |
| Address | Pavilion, C-01-18, Jalan Puteri 7/13, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm Sunday: Closed |
| Contact Details | +6012 811 8268 |
book now with
4. CLÉO Clinic
CLÉO Clinic is staffed with certified, experienced doctors who personalise treatments. Offering a range of aesthetic and dermatology services, the clinic provides procedures such as Botox, HIFU, and laser treatments. The Fractional Laser Resurfacing is a fully ablative laser resurfacing treatment that stimulates collagen and elastic fibres for youthful skin. What’s more, it also addresses wrinkles, sun damage, pigmentation, and surface scarring.
For more information or to make an appointment, click here.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, Botox, HIFU |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
5. Glo Laser Centres
We continue our list with Glo Laser Centres, which offers treatments for acne, pigmentation, dull skin, and wrinkles. Visit any of their outlets across Klang Valley to try their signature SKIN FIX treatment. What’s more, the clinic also provides procedures such as facelifts, facial treatments, and laser hair removal.
| Pricing | Starts from RM168 |
| Services | Lasers, face lift, facial |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
6. M∙A∙C∙ Clinic
M∙A∙C∙ Clinic was founded in 1996 by Dr Hew Yin Keat. It provides non-invasive and minimally invasive aesthetic procedures to address signs of ageing with little to no recovery period. The clinic also offers various laser treatments, including eCO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing, a rejuvenation treatment. According to M∙A∙C∙ Clinic, this treatment is suitable for a range skin concerns such as sun-damaged skin, acne scars, and wrinkles.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, facelift, hair fillers |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
7. Signature Clinic
Signature Clinic is led by Dato’ Dr Liow Tiong Sin, who has over 20 years of experience in aesthetic medical practice. It is a medical aesthetic clinic located in DC Mall, offering a range of non-invasive procedures to address various concerns. Some of the services available at the clinic include Fractional CO2 Laser, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment, and CoolSculpting.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, body sculpting, PRP |
| Address | Lot L2-19, DC Mall, Damansara City, 6, Jalan Damanlela, 50490 Kuala Lumpur |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Saturday: 10 am – 2 pm Sunday: Closed |
| Contact Details | +603-2011 1833 |
book now with
8. Da Vinci Clinic
Established in 2014, Da Vinci Clinic has various laser treatments to address pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin. What’s more, the clinic provides treatments for those seeking to address their physical appearance or women’s and men’s health. For patients looking for a laser skin resurfacing treatment, it offers the Fotona SP Dynamics PRO laser and Fractional CO2 laser, used to treat signs of ageing.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, facelift, skin boosters |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
9. Dr Chong Clinic
With multiple branches across Malaysia, Dr Chong Clinic has a team of experienced doctors who perform various non-surgical aesthetic procedures. From skin treatments and body contouring to hair growth and removal procedures, this clinic provides a range of services to address aesthetic concerns. Moreover, the Fractional CO2 Laser helps tackle fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and reduce acne scars.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, facials, body contouring, hair growth treatments |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
10. Premier Clinic
Continuing our list of aesthetic clinics, Premier Clinic offers comprehensive medical aesthetic services. With the expertise of trained professionals, a wide range of procedures for the face, body, and hair are available. Among the treatments offered is the Fractional CO2 Laser, which uses fractional laser resurfacing technology to deliver results similar to those of ablative laser resurfacing. Moreover, this non-ablative laser resurfacing helps rejuvenate facial skin damaged by sun exposure.
| Pricing | Starts from RM1,200 |
| Services | Lasers, Botox, HIFU |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
11. EE Clinic
One of the aesthetic clinics in Malaysia offering laser skin resurfacing procedures, EE Clinic provides a range of treatments for the face, skin, body, and hair. The clinic offers two laser treatments for skin resurfacing: Smartxide² Fractional CO2 Laser and Fotona Q-Switched Nd:Yag Laser. Both use ablative laser technology to even skin tone and tackle pigmentation with no downtime. Additionally, trained professional doctors personalise each treatment based on patients’ skin needs.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, fillers, HIFU |
| Address | Click here to view the branches |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | Click here to view the contact details |
book now with
12. Cosmetic Artistry
Cosmetic Artistry, led by Dr A. Ananda Dorai, is located at Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara. It offers procedures such as cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, and non-surgical options. The clinic also provides laser skin resurfacing to address minor facial flaws like acne scars, sun-damaged skin, and wrinkles. Additionally, services like breast augmentation and liposuction are also available.
For more information or to make an appointment, click here.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, breast augmentation, liposuction |
| Address | 11, Jalan Teknologi, PJU 5, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan |
| Operating Hours | Click here to view the operating hours |
| Contact Details | +6012 987 8422 |
13. Nexus Clinic
Whether you want to tackle acne scars, wrinkles, or dull skin, Nexus Clinic has treatments designed to address various skin concerns. The services available include laser resurfacing and other minimally invasive procedures. Want to address the concerns mentioned above? The Fractional CO2 Laser is a non-surgical treatment that helps tighten skin and support collagen production. However, please note that the treatment may involve minimal downtime.
For more information or to make an appointment, click here.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, thread lift, fillers |
| Address | LG 10, Lower Ground Floor, Wisma UOA II, Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 6 pm Sunday and PHs: Closed |
| Contact Details | +603-2163 5699 |
14. Esteliq Clinic
Next on our list is Esteliq Clinic, where patients will have a consultation with an experienced doctor to determine a suitable treatment. The clinic offers procedures for the face, skin, body, and hair, with various treatments designed to address specific issues. One of these is the Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing, a skin resurfacing procedure suitable for dull skin, open pores, static wrinkles, and acne scars. Prior to the procedure, a topical numbing agent will be applied to the treatment area on cleansed skin.
For more information or to make an appointment, click here.
| Pricing | Starts from RM600 |
| Services | Lasers, fillers, skin peels |
| Address | S328 & 328A, Level 2, New Wing, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Lebuh Bandar Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor |
| Operating Hours | Open daily: 10 am – 7 pm |
| Contact Details | +603-7729 5328 |
15. Kalo Cosmetic Surgery
Kalo Cosmetic Surgery offers a range of face, skin, body, and hair procedures, including laser treatments, fillers, breast augmentation, and hair transplants. Moreover, the laser resurfacing procedure targets skin imperfections such as hyperpigmentation, freckles, post-acne scars, and uneven skin tone. Additionally, the clinic uses Fractional CO2 Laser or Revlite Laser to address these issues.
For more information or to make an appointment, click here.
| Pricing | Contact them to inquire about pricing |
| Services | Lasers, fillers, breast augmentation, hair transplant |
| Address | Mid Valley Megamall, 23-1, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Friday: 10 am – 7:15 pm Saturday: 10 am – 7 pm Sunday: Closed |
| Contact Details | +603-2284 6688 |
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