The Best Laser Skin Resurfacing Devices
Laser skin resurfacing is a popular method to rejuvenate the skin by addressing issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, pigmentation, and overall skin texture. The primary types of resurfacing lasers include ablative lasers (such as CO₂ and Erbium: YAG lasers) and non-ablative lasers (such as Fraxel Dual and others). Each technology works differently based on the depth of treatment, recovery time, and intended goals.
What they are?
CO₂ lasers, or carbon dioxide lasers, emit infrared light at a wavelength of 10,600 nm. They are considered ablative lasers, meaning they remove the outer layers of damaged skin to stimulate regeneration of new, smoother tissue.
What do they treat?
CO₂ lasers are highly effective for treating deep wrinkles, extensive sun damage, acne scars, surgical scars, uneven texture, and precancerous growths.
What are the advantages of CO2 laser resurfacing?
- Profound collagen remodeling
- Significant improvements in deep lines and scars
- Long-lasting results after a single session
What are the disadvantages of CO2 laser resurfacing?
- Extended recovery time (7–14 days of downtime)
- Risk of pigment changes (especially in darker skin tones)
- Higher risk of infection or scarring if not performed correctly
Examples of leading CO₂ devices:
- Lumenis UltraPulse
- DEKA SmartXide DOT
- Fraxel Re:pair (CO₂ version)
What they are:
Erbium lasers operate at a wavelength of 2940 nm, which is highly absorbed by water in skin tissue. Like CO₂ lasers, they are ablative but tend to be more precise and cause less thermal injury to surrounding tissue.
What do they treat?
Erbium lasers are ideal for treating superficial to moderately deep wrinkles, sunspots, pigmentation irregularities, and mild skin laxity.
What are the advantages of Erbium lasers?
- Less thermal damage compared to CO₂ lasers
- Faster healing time (typically 5–7 days)
- Lower risk of pigment alterations
What are the disadvantages of Erbium lasers?
- May require multiple sessions for deeper wrinkles or scars
- Less effective for very severe skin damage compared to CO₂
Examples of leading Erbium:YAG devices
- Sciton Contour TRL
- Fotona SP Dynamis Pro
What they are?
Non-ablative lasers deliver controlled heat into the dermis (the thick middle layer of skin) without removing the outer layers of skin (the epidermis). Fractional technology treats microscopic columns of skin, leaving surrounding tissue intact to aid faster recovery.
What do they treat?
These lasers are used to treat fine lines, mild to moderate acne scarring, sun damage, and uneven pigmentation, offering gradual improvement with less downtime.
What are the advantages of non-ablative fractional lasers?
- Minimal recovery time (typically mild redness for a few days)
- Safer for a broader range of skin types
- Lower risk of infection or scarring
What are the disadvantages of non-ablative fractional lasers?
- Requires a series of treatments (usually 3–5 sessions)
- Results are more subtle compared to ablative lasers
Examples of leading non-ablative fractional devices:
- Fraxel Dual 1550/1927
- Clear + Brilliant (a milder version by Solta Medical)
- Cynosure Icon 1540
What it is:
The Fraxel Dual combines two wavelengths in one device:
- 1550 nm (deeper dermal treatment)
- 1927 nm (more superficial epidermal treatment)
What does the Fraxel Dual laser treat?
Fraxel Dual is particularly suited for treating sunspots, age spots, melasma, fine lines, mild to moderate acne scars, and overall skin tone and texture.
What are the advantages of Fraxel Dual laser treatment?
- Versatility to treat both superficial and deeper concerns
- Predictable and safe results across a variety of indications
- Minimal downtime (usually 3–7 days of redness and peeling)
What are the disadvantages of Fraxel dual laser treatment?
- Multiple sessions are typically needed for best results
- Mild discomfort during and after the procedure
Notable points:
- One of the most researched and widely used non-ablative fractional lasers in dermatology
- Effective for both lighter and some darker skin types when settings are adjusted appropriately
Each laser skin resurfacing option offers unique benefits depending on the patient’s goals, skin type, and tolerance for downtime.
- CO₂ lasers remain the gold standard for dramatic skin rejuvenation with significant recovery.
- Erbium:YAG lasers offer a balance of results with faster healing.
- Non-ablative lasers, including the Fraxel Dual, provide a gentler but effective option with less interruption to daily life.
It is essential to have a comprehensive evaluation by an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Devorah Shagalov at Biscayne Dermatology in Miami to choose the most appropriate device and settings to meet specific needs. Contact her to schedule a consultation today and learn how you can rejuvenate your appearance with a renowned cosmetic dermatologist.
