It takes two to three days to start peeling, and the process lasts about five days beyond that. The face must be kept clean and moist while the skin heals. The patient also must stay out of the sun due to sensitivity. The peel is performed in the office with Valium sedation. Many patients like the peel for the results they see and the short investment in healing time.
Laser resurfacing more aggressively treats the skin for rejuvenation.
It can treat deeper wrinkles and surface irregularities from acne scarring. Skin specimens analyzed after laser therapy demonstrate reversal of changes related to sun damage and more organized collagen. Skin care is intensive, with frequent cleansing and lubrication. Sun avoidance is critical. The main problem after laser is pink coloration of the skin, which may last up to three to four months.