Skin Treatments

Because Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing is an ablative procedure — meaning it removes the outer layers of skin in a controlled manner — a period of visible recovery is a normal and expected part of the process. Patients should anticipate approximately 7 days of downtime, though individual recovery timelines vary depending on the treatment area, the depth of the session, and each person’s skin response.

During recovery, it is common to experience:

• Redness and swelling in the treated area, most pronounced in the first 2–3 days
• Peeling or shedding of the skin as the renewal process takes place — this is a normal part of healing and is often described as similar to an acid-free peel
• Sensitivity to touch, temperature, and skincare products during the healing period

To support recovery, patients are advised to:

• Keep the skin clean and well moisturised using products recommended by their practitioner
• Avoid touching, rubbing, or picking at peeling skin, which may increase the risk of complications
• Refrain from exercise, heat exposure (including saunas and hot showers), and the use of makeup for the period advised by their practitioner
• Apply a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen daily once the skin has healed, and maintain consistent sun protection as part of ongoing skin care

Full skin healing and the appearance of the treated area typically continue to evolve over several weeks following the procedure. Follow-up appointments assist our practitioner in monitoring your recovery and addressing any questions during this period.

In some cases, laser resurfacing may be considered alongside other skin treatments as part of a broader approach to addressing skin concerns. Whether a combination approach is appropriate depends entirely on your individual skin assessment, medical history, treatment history, and goals.

Treatments that are sometimes considered alongside laser resurfacing include skin needling, skin care programmes, or other energy-based modalities. The sequencing, spacing, and suitability of any combined approach requires careful assessment. Combining treatments without appropriate professional oversight may increase the risk of adverse effects, including prolonged redness, pigmentation changes, or compromised skin barrier function.

Our practitioner will discuss whether a combined approach is appropriate for your situation during your consultation. We do not recommend or proceed with combination treatments without a thorough individual assessment, and any plan will be developed with your safety and realistic expectations as the primary considerations.

The skin continues to change over time as a result of the natural ageing process and ongoing environmental factors, including UV exposure, lifestyle, and general health. As such, the outcomes of laser resurfacing are not permanent, and individual responses to treatment vary considerably.

Factors that may influence how outcomes are maintained over time include:

• Consistent and adequate sun protection, which is one of the most significant factors in supporting skin condition following any resurfacing treatment
• Skincare practices, including the use of appropriate moisturisers and skin-supporting products as recommended by your practitioner
• Lifestyle factors such as diet, hydration, smoking, and general health
• Age and the rate of individual skin change over time

Some patients choose to have maintenance treatments at intervals recommended by their practitioner to support the condition of their skin over time. Your practitioner will discuss what a realistic ongoing plan may look like for your situation based on your skin’s response. No specific outcome or duration of results can be guaranteed, and expectations will be discussed openly at your consultation and follow-up appointments.

Yes. A consultation is required before any laser resurfacing treatment is performed. This is not a formality — it is an essential step in ensuring that the treatment is appropriate for you and that you are able to make a fully informed decision before proceeding.

During your consultation, our practitioner will:

• Review your medical history, current medications, and any relevant health conditions
• Assess your skin type, tone, and the nature of the concerns you are seeking to address
• Explain the procedure in detail, including how the Xlase Plus Erbium:YAG laser works and what to expect during and after treatment
• Discuss the potential risks, side effects, and contraindications relevant to your individual presentation
• Outline realistic expectations for outcomes, noting that individual responses vary
• Present any alternatives that may also be appropriate for your skin concerns
• Provide preparation guidelines and answer any questions you may have

No treatment will be scheduled or performed without a completed consultation. We encourage patients to take their time, consider their options, and ask any questions they have before making a decision.

All laser resurfacing treatments at our clinic are performed by our skilled practitioner, who has training and experience in the use of the Xlase Plus Erbium:YAG platform. The same practitioner who conducts your consultation will be involved in your care, ensuring continuity and familiarity with your individual skin assessment and treatment plan.

All procedures are conducted in accordance with applicable Australian standards and guidelines, including those set out by AHPRA and the relevant National Boards. Our practitioner operates within their scope of practice and will be transparent about any situations in which a referral or alternative provider may be more appropriate for your needs. Patient safety and informed decision-making are the foundations of how we approach every treatment.

Because Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing is an ablative treatment that works at the skin’s surface, some degree of discomfort during the procedure is expected. Topical anaesthetic cream is routinely applied prior to treatment to manage this, and most patients find the procedure tolerable with appropriate numbing in place.

The level of discomfort experienced can vary depending on:

• The area being treated and its sensitivity
• The depth and coverage of the treatment session
• Individual pain tolerance

Cooling measures may also be used during the procedure to support comfort. Our practitioner will discuss pain management with you prior to your session and ensure you are comfortable with the approach before proceeding. If you have concerns about discomfort or a low tolerance for pain, please raise this during your consultation so that appropriate measures can be considered.

There are a number of conditions and circumstances that may make laser resurfacing unsuitable or require careful consideration before proceeding. Our practitioner conducts a thorough assessment at your consultation specifically to identify any contraindications relevant to your situation.

Conditions that may affect suitability include, but are not limited to:

• Active skin infections, cold sores (herpes simplex), or open wounds in or near the treatment area
• A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
• Certain autoimmune or inflammatory skin conditions, such as lupus, psoriasis, or eczema in the treatment area
• Use of photosensitising medications, including some antibiotics and certain acne medications (e.g., isotretinoin — a period of cessation is typically required before treatment)
• Significant or recent sun exposure or active tan in the treatment area
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Certain medical conditions or medications that affect skin healing or immune response

This list is not exhaustive. It is important that you disclose your full medical history, including all current medications and supplements, at your consultation. Withholding relevant health information may affect the safety of your treatment. Where a contraindication is identified, our practitioner will discuss suitable alternatives with you.