Non-ablative Laser Resurfacing

Most non-ablative lasers are fractional non-ablative lasers.

These lasers create microchannels (called Microscopic Thermal Zones or MTZs) of damage within the skin.

As the laser travels through the skin, it causes the water in the deeper, dermal layers of skin to heat up. They do this in a controlled manner, so rather than causing the water and the surrounding tissue to vaporise (like an ablative laser would do), the temperature increases, tightening existing collagen whilst also stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, thus stimulating dermal remodelling.

Most non-ablative lasers are fractional non-ablative lasers. These create microchannels (called Microscopic Thermal Zones or MTZs) of damage within the skin. As the laser travels through the skin, it causes the water in the deeper, dermal layers of skin to heat up. They do this in a controlled manner, so rather than causing the water and the surrounding tissue to vaporise (like an ablative laser would do), the temperature increases, tightening existing collagen whilst also stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, thus prompting dermal remodelling.

The channels are surrounded by healthy and intact skin, which means that non-ablative laser skin treatments are far less invasive than ablative laser skin treatments. They also leave the epidermis completely intact, making them a great alternative to more invasive laser treatments. They still produce a skin rejuvenating effect, albeit to a more moderate degree than their ablative counterparts (see diagram). The upside is that risk of complications is much reduced.

Your practitioner may ask you to prepare for your treatment by:

6-8 weeks prior to your treatment you should avoid sun exposure and false tanning products.

4 weeks prior to your treatment, to prepare your skin and to kick start the production of collagen, your practitioner may recommend you use a topical retinoid product alongside exfoliating acids, such as alpha-hydroxy acid based creams.

2 weeks prior to your treatment, your practitioner may prescribe an anti-viral medicine (like Acyclovir) if you are prone to coldsores.

1 week prior to your treatment you should:

• Stop taking asprin, NSAIDs and Vitamin E supplements
• Have a patch test

NB: Before and after your non-ablative laser treatment you need to avoid sun exposure. Ideally, you will avoid the sun for at least 2 months prior to your treatment. Equally, to get the best out of your laser treatment, you should avoid sun exposure following your treatment. Investing in, and using, a broad spectrum SPF 50 product everyday is advised.

Immediately after your treatment, your skin will appear red and feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. This should dissipate within 24 hours, although, don’t be worried if it persists for a couple of days.

Do not undertake any strenuous exercise. Avoid hot showers and baths and do not expose your skin to any sun. You need to try to keep your skin cool.

You may experience dry skin. In rare cases, acne may flare up, particularly in younger people.

If you are susceptible to cold sores, you may have a breakout following non-ablative laser treatments. It may be an idea to keep lysine supplements and acyclovir medication to hand following your treatment.

Costs for non-ablative laser treatments vary depending on the size of the treatment area and the brand of laser used.

Expect to pay anywhere from £200 to £600 for a single treatment and £2000 to £3000 for a full face.