Laser technology allows us to direct focused light energy into the skin to target specific layers. Some lasers remove old, damaged skin cells at the surface, while others heat deeper layers to stimulate collagen. With our laser services, we can always adjust the approach to address different skin concerns. At Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates in Sacramento, CA, we use laser platforms that support skin renewal and remodeling. Laser energy can help smooth the skin’s texture, reduce pigment, and soften signs of aging. The method is controlled, precise, and designed to work with your skin’s natural repair process and your busy lifestyle.

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing? 

Laser skin resurfacing uses concentrated beams of light to remove damaged skin cells or heat deeper tissues to stimulate collagen. The goal is to improve skin tone, texture, and firmness by promoting natural regeneration. Some lasers focus on the surface, while others reach below to target structural layers without removing the top layer of skin. The specific type of laser used depends on the condition of your skin and the result you’re looking for.

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The Types of Lasers

What Can Laser Treatments Address? 

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Fine lines form as your skin loses collagen and elasticity with age. When we use lasers on these areas, the heat energy reaches the deeper layers and prompts your body to begin rebuilding collagen. The surface of the skin becomes smoother as the structure underneath becomes more supportive.

Sun Damage

Years of sun exposure can cause the skin to look rough, blotchy, or uneven. When we apply laser treatments for sun damage, we can target the areas where UV rays have altered pigment and skin texture. Lasers help break down that pigment and prompt your skin to begin its natural repair process, gradually restoring a more even tone.

Hyperpigmentation

Excess pigment can come from sun exposure, inflammation, or hormonal shifts. Lasers allow us to target specific areas of darker pigment without affecting the surrounding skin. The body clears these pigmented cells in the days and weeks following treatment, which can improve clarity and uniformity.

Acne Scars

We often see acne scars that are indented or discolored. Lasers help in two ways. First, we can break down pigment in darker scars. Second, we can stimulate collagen production in areas where scarring has left depressions.

Large Pores

Large pores reflect a loss of skin elasticity or buildup around the pore opening. By using laser energy to tighten the skin and clear surface debris, we can help reduce how visible the pores appear. With ongoing collagen remodeling, the skin may also feel firmer and more even.

Loose and Sagging Skin

As skin starts to lose its firmness, you may notice laxity along the jawline, neck, or cheeks. We use skin-tightening laser treatments to heat the lower layers of the skin and trigger collagen regeneration. These treatments can help the tissue contract and build support internally.

Dry, Crepey, or Leathery Skin

Dry and weathered skin often looks dull or rough. When the outer layers hold onto dead skin cells, they prevent light from reflecting evenly and block topical products from working well. Laser resurfacing removes that buildup, helping newer cells reach the surface while stimulating deeper repair. This can result in skin that feels smoother and looks more refreshed.

Why Choose Laser Technology?

Precision Treatments With Customizable Intensities

One of the reasons we often recommend lasers is that we can fine-tune the settings to match your skin’s needs. We can adjust the depth, energy level, and treatment density. This level of control helps us address small, specific areas and allows us to approach different skin tones and textures more safely.

Minimal Disruption to Surrounding Skin

A laser treatment delivers concentrated energy directly to the target area without spreading heat to the skin around it. The precision of lasers reduces the chances of unnecessary irritation or prolonged redness. With these treatments, we can balance beautiful results with less downtime. 

Preventative and Corrective Uses

Lasers work well for treating visible skin concerns, but they also serve a preventative function. When you start treatments before deep lines or sagging develop, you encourage your skin to maintain its collagen production longer. We can also use the same laser device on more advanced concerns. Whether your goal is to maintain or restore, we have flexibility in how we apply the energy.

Suitable for Virtually Any Area

We can use lasers on the face, neck, chest, hands, and even areas like the back or arms where sun damage or texture changes are present. Since we can adjust the intensity, it is possible to treat delicate zones like around the eyes or mouth.

Our Laser Treatments

Erbium Laser Resurfacing

Erbium technology gives us the ability to perform laser resurfacing with precision and controlled depth. We often recommend it when patients have fine lines, uneven texture, or pigment changes they want to improve. This laser removes thin layers of skin one at a time with minimal heat, which helps reduce the risk of thermal damage. Healing tends to be faster compared to other laser technologies, such as CO2 lasers, so it is accessible to more patients. 

Light “Lunchtime” Laser Peels

These lighter treatments work well when you want to refresh your skin without taking much time away from your daily routine. We use a gentle setting that removes only the outermost layer of dead skin cells. The process can leave the skin looking brighter and feeling smoother within a few days. Patients often choose this approach for mild sun damage and dullness or to maintain results between deeper treatments. This option is also great for combining with other skin renewal treatments to maximize results while allowing you to get back to your day. 

Laser vs. IPL: What Is the Difference?

Patients often ask whether they should choose laser resurfacing or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). The main difference is in how the devices deliver energy. Lasers use a single, focused wavelength of light, while IPL uses a broad spectrum of light. Lasers allow us to treat with more precision and target deeper layers when needed. IPL is often best for general redness, sunspots, or visible blood vessels, but it does not remove layers of skin. We offer both, and depending on your goals, we will recommend the most effective option.

What Are Laser Treatments Like? 

Pre-Treatment Numbing

Before most laser treatments, we apply a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort. You will sit with the numbing cream for about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the depth of treatment planned. This step helps make the process more tolerable, especially for deeper anti-aging treatments or areas with thinner skin.

Duration of Laser Treatments

The time we need depends on the area we treat and the intensity of the session. A full-face resurfacing can take 45 minutes or longer, while smaller areas or light peels may only take 15 to 20 minutes. We will always let you know in advance how much time to set aside, including numbing and other preparation steps.

What Laser Treatments Feel Like

During the treatment, you may feel a warm or snapping sensation as the laser makes contact with your skin. Deeper settings may cause a sharper heat sensation, but the numbing helps manage this. Some lasers also include a cooling feature to make the surface of the skin more comfortable.

Immediate Post-Treatment Skin Response

After the session, your skin will likely look red and feel warm. The sensation is often like a mild sunburn and can feel tight and dry. In the first few days, you may see peeling or flaking as the outer layer sheds. We will give you detailed aftercare instructions to help support healing and reduce downtime.

How to Prepare for Laser Treatments

Avoid Sun Exposure and Self-Tanner

In the two weeks leading up to your laser treatment, avoid direct sun exposure and skip self-tanning products. Tanned or recently sunburned skin increases the risk of irritation and uneven results. If your skin tone is darker from recent sun exposure or tanning products, we may need to reschedule.

Stop Retinoids and Exfoliants

Retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliating products can make your skin more sensitive to laser energy. We recommend stopping these products about five to seven days before your session. If you use prescription-strength formulas, let us know so we can guide you on when to pause them safely.

Stay Well-Hydrated

Hydrated skin responds better to laser energy and recovers more efficiently. Start increasing your water intake a few days before your appointment. Moisturizing your skin regularly also helps build a healthier skin barrier before treatment.

Let Us Know About Active Breakouts or Infections

If you have any active cold sores, acne breakouts, or skin infections, let us know ahead of time. Treating over-irritated or compromised skin can increase treatment discomfort and risks. In some cases, we may prescribe antiviral medication before your appointment if you have a history of cold sores.

Laser Resurfacing Treatments FAQs

Some patients see visible improvement after one session, especially with deeper laser skin treatments, while others benefit from a series of lighter treatments spaced weeks apart. We will evaluate your skin and goals to build a schedule that makes sense for you. Maintenance sessions may be helpful every year or so, depending on how your skin responds.

We often combine lasers with other noninvasive treatments for more comprehensive results. Pairing laser resurfacing with injectables or radiofrequency microneedling can address multiple skin concerns at the same time. Timing matters, so we will help you plan a safe and effective treatment schedule.

With the right settings and devices, we can treat many different skin tones and types for anti-aging concerns and texture issues. Certain lasers carry a higher risk of pigment changes in darker skin tones. We will assess your skin type and choose a laser approach that supports the best possible outcome.

Fall and winter may be the best seasons because you are less likely to get sun exposure during healing. If you plan to treat during the spring or summer months, take extra steps to avoid the sun before and after treatment. We will guide you on what to do based on your schedule and skin condition.

Our Treatments at Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates

At Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates, we offer a range of laser treatments to support your skin health and long-term goals. Whether you are looking to improve texture, tone, or signs of aging, we will help you understand which approach makes the most sense for your skin. Our treatments are selected based on years of experience in facial aesthetics, and we have a lifetime commitment to providing detailed, accurate information to each of our patients. We take the time to explain what each option can do and help you set realistic expectations for your results. If you have questions about any of our laser services, we are always available to discuss them in more depth.

Treat Your Skin to Laser Resurfacing in Sacramento, CA

Laser treatments can improve skin tone, texture, and firmness by stimulating natural repair processes without damaging surrounding tissue. We use proven technologies to treat sun damage, wrinkles, discoloration, and other signs of aging. Each approach is adjusted based on the area being treated, your skin type, and the results you want to see. To learn more or request an appointment with Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates in Sacramento, CA, call (916) 480-9080 or contact us through our website.