Toronto Cosmetic Clinic is now offering non-ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing.

There are two types of laser resurfacing techniques: ablative and non-ablative. Both use the power of lasers at a specific wavelength to reduce or eliminate the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and other problems caused by aging, sun damage and other trauma. However, in ablative skin resurfacing, laser energy heats the very top layer of the skin to evaporate both water and tissue. In doing so, the production of collagen is facilitated and new, fresh skin results.

The laser used for non-ablative skin resurfacing goes deeper into the skin, affecting the layer below the epidermis, called the dermis. The stratum corneum is not affected. Instead of a single beam, the the device emits columns of light to prevent heat from unnecessarily accumulating. Exposed tissue coagulates which then initiates the natural healing process to form fresh, healthy tissue. The StarLux® 500 with the Lux1540™ Fractional Laser Handpiece, has patented this fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing process. Little discomfort is felt during the procedure - topical anesthesia is not even required during a session!

Non-ablative laser resurfacing at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic can also target scars resulting from acne. Because it has the ability to penetrate deeply into the skin's surface, various degrees of acne scarring can be treated. Specific acne scars will be assessed to determine the number of sessions required to achieve desirable results. Factors that should be considered include the depth and type of indentation, whether it be icepick (narrow and sharp), boxcar (roundish with vertical edges), or rolling (scars that appear to be undulating on the skin). Also, discolouration, known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), will be assessed.

It is highly recommended that breakouts have subsided or are under control before you begin your series of acne scarring treatments since active acne often leads to the creation of more acne scars.

Generally, laser skin resurfacing performed with a laser that ablates the skin in the target area is ideal for superficial problems, such as fine lines and minor blemishes caused by aging and sundamage.

On the other hand, non-ablative skin resurfacing with the StarLux500™ is ideal for problems that are deeper, as this type of laser can reach below the epidermis and does not affect the top layer of skin.

During your initial consultation with our patient consultant, you'll be able to explore which type of laser resurfacing is most appropriate for your situation.