Cutaneous Laser Resurfacing

Abstract

The aim of skin resurfacing is to remove epidermal abnormalities and produce collagen remodeling in the upper dermis that leads in tum to removement of wrinkles. The success of any resurfacing procedure is determined by the accuracy of depth control. This ensures adequate wrinkle improvement and minimizes complications. Methods available for skin resurfacing include dermabrasion, chemical peel, C02 lasers, Erbium: Yag lasers and simultaneously combined Er: Yag and C02 laser (Derma K). However, C02 and erbium lasers have recently come into favor for cutaneous laser resurfacing. Not all patients are good candidates for laser therapy, potimtial complications include hyperpigmenta'tion, hypopigmentation infection and scarring. The best predictor of hyperpigmentation is the patient's skin type.

Patients with sensitive skin are those with skin easily irritated typically they cannot use soap and can only find one moisturizer and one make up that do not irritate their skin. Resurfacing in these patients. usually will cause the skin to be painful and irritated for months and often these patients can no longer find lotions or make up their skin can• tolerate. In dermal photo aging there is complexity of healing response even the most well studied and precise laser systems can produce unpredicted results when used to treat photo damaged skin.