Skin Resurfacing

Overview

Skin resurfacing removes microscopic columns of damaged surface skin so that new, smoother skin replaces them. Fractional delivery treats a fraction of the surface at a time, which shortens healing compared with fully ablative resurfacing while retaining much of the effect. It is used for texture, acne scarring, fine lines and sun damage.

Benefits of this treatment

Improves texture and tone

Removes damaged surface skin to reveal smoother, more even new skin underneath.

Shorter recovery than fully ablative resurfacing

Fractional delivery treats only a portion of the surface at a time, reducing downtime while retaining much of the effect.

Versatile

Used for acne scarring, fine lines, texture irregularities and sun damage.

How the procedure is performed

  1. 1 20–30 minutes

    Numbing

    Topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area beforehand.

  2. 2 20–40 minutes

    Laser treatment

    The fractional laser creates microscopic treatment columns across the skin, stimulating new, smoother skin to form.

  3. 3 10 minutes

    Aftercare

    A cooling and healing product is applied, with detailed skincare instructions for the following days.

Recovery and aftercare

  1. Days 1–3

    Redness and sensitivity

    Skin looks similar to sunburn, with pinpoint bleeding possible immediately after treatment.

  2. Days 4–7

    Peeling and flaking

    The treated surface sheds as new skin forms underneath.

  3. Weeks 3–4

    Improved texture visible

    Skin appears smoother and more even as healing completes.

Risks and side effects

Prolonged redness

Can last longer than the typical downtime window in some individuals.

Pigment changes

Temporary darkening or lightening, more common in darker skin tones without careful settings.

Breakouts

Some patients experience a temporary flare of small bumps during healing.

Rarer complications

  • Infection — Uncommon, but a risk during the healing phase if aftercare instructions are not followed.
  • Scarring — Rare with correctly calibrated fractional settings, but a genuine risk of overly aggressive treatment.

What it costs

What affects the price

Area treated

Full face costs more than a smaller, targeted area.

Number of sessions

A course of 2–4 sessions is typical and usually priced as a package.

Frequently asked questions

Typically 2–4 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, though this depends on the severity of your concern.

A laser facial is low-intensity and no-downtime, suited to maintenance. Skin resurfacing is more intensive, with real downtime, and is used to meaningfully address scarring or significant texture concerns.

Yes, with settings adjusted specifically for your skin type — this is discussed and planned at consultation.

Related

Treatments patients also consider

Laser Scar Removal

Laser treatment to soften, flatten and fade surgical, traumatic and burn scars.

3 – 7 days downtime

Google Reviews

Rated by our patients

4.0

Based on 26 verified Google reviews

Next step

Considering Skin Resurfacing?

Book a consultation and get a straight answer on whether this is right for you, what it involves, and what it will cost. No obligation to proceed.

  • A private, unhurried assessment with the surgeon
  • An honest view of what is realistically achievable
  • A written quote with no hidden costs
  • Complete confidentiality

Request an appointment

We will call you on this number to confirm.

Your enquiry is confidential and is seen only by our clinical team. We never share your details with anyone.