Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment: Process, Risks, Prices And More

There are different ways of protecting the skin and removing age spots. One of the most common methods is ‘Laser resurfacing’. It is an aesthetic process that uses laser to treat minor facial flaws like spots and wrinkles by removing layers of skin.

Keep on reading to find out more about laser resurfacing treatment. We’ve 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. 

What Is Laser Resurfacing Treatment?

Laser resurfacing is a facial treatment that uses short, concentrated pulsating beam of laser light to reduce facial wrinkles and skin irregularities, such as blemishes or acne scars using lasers. 

The treatment directs the light to the specific affected area and removes the skin precisely layer by layer. This procedure is also called lasabrasion, laser peel, or laser vaporization by dermatologists. 

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. 

Ablative Lasers vs Non-Ablative Lasers

Ablative lasers remove the top layer of the damaged skin using either carbon dioxide (CO2) or Erbium gas. 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 gas lasers remove outside layers of the skin. Ablative lasers also encourage collagen production to heal the skin. It deals mainly in the epidermis layer.  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 targetting a particular spot.  

Broadly speaking, both the treatments use laser lights to remove damaged skin and encourages 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 more suitable for those who suffer skin problems relating to issues like the sign of ageing skin, wrinkles, age spots, loss of skin elasticity and firming. Ablative lasers are more fitting for those who want to improve skin complexion and suffering from acne scars.

Who Should Go For Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment?

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 a good dermatologist would know to work the lasers around any skin tones. 

However, laser skin resurfacing is not for all. If you have acne-prone skin then you may not be a candidate. This facial process is also not recommended to remove stretch marks. You should discuss whether laser resurfacing 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. Before starting the treatment, the dermatologist will first numb your skin with an anaesthetics. For an extensive resurfacing that requires more time, you might be sedated.

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 which causes collagen fibres to shrink.

 As the wound heals, new skin will form over the dead skin. The new skin will be smoother and tighter. Ablative laser resurfacing typically takes between 30 minutes- 2 hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated.

Nonablative laser resurfacing normally takes between 15 minutes- 2 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. 

Nonablative laser won’t destroy 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. New collagen will improve 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 process is pretty fast generally. 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 4-5 days for it to slowly turn into finer dots and flake away.  

For the non-ablative laser treatment, the downtime is actually is lesser than ablative laser so you won’t the dark patches as you would get from ablative treatments. That said, generally, non-ablative lasers can turn the skin orange-reddish for 2-3 days.

Usually, if it is your first time going in for a laser resurfacing treatment, the dermatologist will advise you on that. Plus, 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. 

Nonablative laser resurfacing, on the other hand, can also cause bacterial, viral or fungal infection. If you have darker skin, nonablative laser resurfacing can make your skin to become temporarily darker due to the hyperpigmentation.

You will also experience mild swelling and redness that typically would last for a few hours or days. Not so common, but people do experience blistering and scaring from nonablative laser treatments.

Make sure to follow your doctor’s advice on aftercare procedures and be patient. 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 very important to keep your new skin well moisturized. So be sure to you an oil-free moisturizer with at least SPF 30. If you are using makeup, go for oil-free makeup to minimize 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 15 Best Sunscreens Recommended By Top Dermatologists In Malaysia.

How Much Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost?

Ablative treatment can cost anywhere between RM50-80 per area and non-ablative could cost up toRM500. We recommended you to 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?

Due to the delicate nature of this procedure, it’s important to find a dermatologist who is certified and experienced. Rather than settling for a dermatologist, you found online to make sure to do your research and go for the best. 

To help you out, below we’ve listed the 10 aesthetic clinics in Malaysia. These clinics are board-certified. So, you are in the good hands of dermatologists who has extensive training and practice.

1. My Bliss Clinic

Located in Publika Shopping Gallery, My Bliss Clinic offers an extensive menu that encompasses a broad array of conditions, treatments and procedures spanning medical and aesthetic dermatology.

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 myriad 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 for optimal results.

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 effectively. Plus, the Fotona laser also promotes collagen production in both layers and improve 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, minimize the appearance of scars and pigmentation. By combining both Smartxide and Infiniskin treatments, it can deliver long-lasting outcomes. Additionally, it can also treat scars, blemishes and other skin issues. The price for these treatments varies depending on the skin condition. With the comfortable ambience and skilled medical practitioners, they will ensure you attain the preferred outcomes.

3. Elegance Clinic

Formerly known as Skin Medic Puchong, Elegance Clinic offers a wide arrange of laser and medical aesthetic services. Their range of services is backed by popular demand.

4. One Doc Laser & Aesthetic

With branches all over Malaysia, One Doc is an award-winning aesthetic clinic that provides laser treatments for all sorts of skin concerns. All of their treatments are carefully crafted by their specialised doctors.

5. Glo Laser Centres – Mid Valley

With numerous awards under their belt, Glo Laser Centres can help with you get rid of acne, pigmentation, dull skin and wrinkles. Head down to any one of their outlet around Kuala Lumpur and try their signature treatment SKIN FIX treatment. 

6. M∙A∙C∙ Clinic

Formerly known as the Malaysian Aesthetic Clinic, MAC Clinic was founded in 1996 by Dr Hew Yin Keat. They offer non-invasive and minimally invasive aesthetic procedure to combat the signs of ageing with little or no downtime with high-quality aesthetic equipment and products.

7. Signature Clinic

Helmed by Dato’ Dr Liow Tiong Sin, who has 20 years experience in aesthetic medical practice. Signature Clinic is a medical aesthetic clinic located in DC Mall They performs a range of non-invasive aesthetical procedures to enhance the beauty of their clients.

8. Da Vinci Clinic

Established in 2014, Da Vinci Clinic is known for its affordable laser treatments and patient-centric services. The clinic is dedicated to treating anyone who wishes to rid of their skin problems or wants to improve their overall physical appearance. 

9. Dr Chong Clinic – Skin & Lasers Center

With two in the Klang Valley and one in Johor, Dr Chong Clinic has a dedicated team of doctors to deliver the highest level of non-surgical aesthetic procedures one could ever desire.

10. Premier Clinic

Premier Clinic has been providing comprehensive medical aesthetics services at the upscale area of Kuala Lumpur, TTDI. With the help of advanced aesthetic medicine and trained team of professionals, they will definitely ensure your needs are taken in and fulfilled.

11. EE Clinic – Premium Aesthetic, Laser & Skin Clinic

One of the leading aesthetic clinics in Malaysia, EE Clinic offers an array of advanced procedures unlike any other. Their highly trained professional doctors will ensure that you have a pleasant experience at EE Clinic.