ABLATIVE RESURFACING

Fractional ablative laser resurfacing is an advanced dermatology treatment that uses a laser to deliver microscopic beams of energy into the skin. This creates tiny, controlled zones of ablation while leaving surrounding skin intact, which speeds up healing compared to fully ablative lasers.

As a Consultant Dermatologist in London, Dr Kentley has specialist training in fractional ablative CO₂ and Erbium lasers and can advise whether this type of treatment is suitable for your skin concern.

What Can Fractional Ablative Lasers Treat?

Fractional ablative resurfacing may be considered for:

  • Acne scars

  • Surgical or traumatic scars

  • Fine lines and deeper wrinkles

  • Sun-damaged skin

  • Uneven skin tone and texture

  • Pigmentation concerns (in selected cases)

CO₂ vs Erbium Fractional Lasers

  • CO₂ fractional lasers penetrate deeper into the skin and are often chosen for more significant scarring or photoageing.

  • Erbium:YAG fractional lasers target more superficial layers with less heat spread, which may mean quicker recovery for certain patients.

How Treatment Works

  • The laser creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones within the skin.

  • These stimulate the body’s natural healing response, encouraging new collagen and elastin production.

  • The result is gradual improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness over several weeks.

What to Expect

  • A consultation is required first to assess suitability and plan treatment.

  • A topical anaesthetic cream is applied for comfort, and occasionally injections are required.

  • Treatment typically takes 20–45 minutes depending on the area.

  • Patients often experience redness, swelling, and a sandpaper-like texture for several days.

  • Recovery is typically 5–10 days, though redness may persist longer.

  • A course of multiple sessions is usually needed for best results.

Aftercare

  • Keep the treated skin clean and well-moisturised.

  • Avoid picking or scratching while healing.

  • Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect new skin.

Ablative Laser Treatment for Rhinophyma and Benign Skin Lesions

Ablative laser resurfacing can also be used for conditions where excess or thickened skin needs to be carefully reshaped or removed. Using CO₂ or Erbium lasers, a dermatologist can precisely vaporise layers of skin while preserving surrounding tissue, making this approach suitable for certain complex skin concerns.

Rhinophyma

  • Rhinophyma is a condition linked to rosacea that causes thickening and irregular overgrowth of the skin on the nose.

  • Ablative lasers can be used to reshape the nose, reduce excess tissue, and improve both function and appearance.

  • This treatment is performed under medical supervision and often provides a more controlled alternative to surgical excision.

Benign Skin Lesions

Ablative lasers may also be used to treat certain benign skin growths that are not cancerous but may cause cosmetic or functional concerns. Examples include:

  • Syringomas (sweat gland growths, often around the eyes)

  • Sebaceous hyperplasia (enlarged oil glands)

  • Xanthelasma (cholesterol deposits around the eyelids)

  • Other small surface lesions where precision is required

Safety and Recovery

  • A consultation is essential to confirm diagnosis before proceeding with treatment.

  • Local anaesthetic is often used to make the procedure comfortable.

  • Healing time varies depending on the depth and area treated, but redness and sensitivity may last for several days to weeks.

  • As with all laser procedures, careful aftercare and sun protection are important to support recovery.

Book a Consultation

If you are considering ablative laser resurfacing in London using CO₂ or Erbium lasers, book a consultation with Dr Kentley to discuss whether this treatment may be appropriate for your skin concern.