What To Expect From Facial Laser Treatment Before And After

Facial laser treatments have become one of the most popular procedures for skin rejuvenation in Australia and beyond. Whether you’re seeking smoother skin texture, fewer fine lines, or relief from sun-damaged skin, there’s a growing interest in what facial laser treatment before and after results truly look like, especially with cutting-edge technology like the UltraClear laser.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know, from what to expect during and after your treatment to the healing process and how your skin transforms over time.

What Is Facial Laser Treatment?

Facial laser treatment, also known as laser skin resurfacing, is a non-invasive procedure that harnesses the power of focused light beams to address a variety of skin concerns. This treatment works by targeting specific skin imperfections such as wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation, and skin laxity.

The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin with a balanced tone and improved texture. With its precision, facial laser treatment can help rejuvenate your skin and restore its natural radiance without the need for surgery.

The UltraClear Laser

The UltraClear laser represents the cutting edge of skin rejuvenation technology, offering exceptional precision and effectiveness with minimal discomfort. This advanced device utilises cold ablative laser energy to target the skin’s surface layers and deeper dermal structures.

The UltraClear laser promotes smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin by stimulating collagen production and encouraging natural skin healing. Its innovative approach ensures highly targeted treatment, making it a powerful tool for addressing various skin concerns.

Why Choose UltraClear Laser Technology?

There are several compelling reasons why UltraClear laser is an excellent choice for facial resurfacing:

Precision

UltraClear’s advanced technology precisely targets damaged areas of the skin, ensuring that the surrounding healthy skin remains unharmed. This allows for highly focused treatment, delivering optimal results without compromising the integrity of your skin.

Minimal Downtime

Compared to traditional laser treatments, UltraClear offers significantly faster healing times. The technology promotes quicker skin recovery, so you can enjoy refreshed skin with minimal disruption to your daily routine.

Versatility

UltraClear laser is suitable for a wide range of areas on the face and body. Whether you’re looking to treat the full face or delicate zones such as the forehead, neck, or around the mouth, UltraClear adapts to your needs, providing precise treatment tailored to each area.

Customisable

UltraClear laser technology is highly adaptable to skin types, including lighter and darker tones. The intensity of the treatment can be adjusted to address specific skin conditions, ensuring a personalised approach for each individual’s unique skin concerns.

Who’s A Good Candidate For Facial Laser Treatment?

Facial laser treatment can offer fantastic results if you’re looking to improve the appearance of:

1. Fine Lines Or Deep Wrinkles

This treatment is highly effective in smoothing out fine lines and reducing the appearance of deeper wrinkles, giving your skin a refreshed, youthful appearance.

2. Acne Scars Or Surgical Scarring

If you have scars from past acne breakouts or surgery, facial laser treatment can help even out the texture of your skin and reduce the visibility of scars, resulting in a smoother, more even complexion.

3. Uneven Skin Texture Or Tone

For those struggling with rough skin texture, skin tightening, or an uneven tone, facial laser treatment can promote a more uniform, refined skin surface, creating a more polished look.

4. Sun Damage Or Pigmentation

If sun exposure has led to pigmentation issues, such as sunspots, freckles, or discolouration, facial laser treatments can target these imperfections, helping to restore a brighter and clearer complexion.

5. Skin Laxity Or Signs Of Ageing

As we age, the skin naturally loses its firmness. Laser treatment can help tighten and firm sagging skin, reducing the visible signs of ageing and improving skin elasticity.

While facial laser treatments are beneficial for various skin concerns, it’s important to remember that individuals with active infections, certain chronic skin conditions, or non-responsive skin may not be ideal candidates.

Before Your Treatment: What To Expect

Here’s what you can expect before undergoing facial laser resurfacing:

Consultation And Skin Assessment

Your treatment journey begins with a thorough consultation at the clinic, where your skin type, tone, and specific concerns will be evaluated. During this consultation, your cosmetic doctor will discuss your treatment goals and design a personalised plan to achieve the best results.

As part of the assessment, photographs may be taken to document your skin’s condition. This allows the doctor to track your progress and compare your facial laser treatment results before and after.

Preparing Your Skin

To ensure the best possible outcome from your laser treatment, there are a few important steps to take leading up to your appointment:

Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure And Tanning: It’s essential to limit sun exposure before your treatment, as tanning or sunburned skin can increase the risk of complications and may interfere with the laser’s effectiveness.
Discontinue Certain Skincare Products: In the weeks before your treatment, you may be advised to stop using certain products, such as retinoids or exfoliants. These can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial during the lead-up to your treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to shield your skin from UV damage.
Use A Gentle Skincare Routine: A simple and soothing skincare routine can help reduce any irritation or dryness in the days before your treatment. Opt for gentle cleansers and moisturisers to prepare your skin for optimal results.

During The Procedure: What Happens In The Clinic

Here’s what you can expect on the day of your facial laser treatment:

1. Cleansing The Skin

First, your treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any oils, dirt, or makeup, ensuring the skin is completely prepared for the procedure.

2. Numbing Cream Or Anaesthetic

A numbing cream or local anaesthetic will be applied to the treatment area to maximise comfort. This helps ensure you feel relaxed and at ease throughout the procedure.

3. Laser Application

Once the skin is prepared, the UltraClear laser will be carefully passed over your skin in a precise, controlled pattern. The cosmetic doctor will adjust the intensity and depth of the treatment based on your skin needs, targeting areas of concern with pinpoint accuracy.

4. Cooling Measures

Ice packs may be applied to the treated areas to minimise any potential swelling or discomfort. This helps to soothe the skin and reduce any burning sensations that may arise during the procedure.

5. Aftercare Instructions

Before you leave the clinic, you’ll be provided with detailed aftercare instructions. These guidelines ensure an optimal healing process and achieve the desired results. The instructions may include recommendations on skincare, sun protection, and any follow-up appointments.

Immediate Effects

After your facial laser treatment, here’s what you can expect right away:

Redness

It’s completely normal to experience redness in the treated areas, which may resemble the sensation of a mild sunburn. This redness is typically temporary and should subside within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the intensity of the treatment.

Mild Swelling

You may notice some mild swelling, particularly in sensitive areas around the eyes and mouth. This swelling is generally short-lived and will diminish as your skin begins to heal.

Tingling Or Burning Sensation

A slight tingling or burning sensation is common following laser treatment. This feeling is usually mild and temporary, often dissipating within a few hours after the procedure.

Your cosmetic doctor may apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to ensure the treated areas stay moist and help reduce the risk of infection. These soothing measures promote a comfortable healing process and maintain skin hydration.

Days To Weeks After Treatment

Your skin’s recovery journey unfolds gradually, and each stage reveals subtle yet meaningful improvements. Here’s what you can typically expect in the days and weeks following your facial laser treatment:

Day 1–3

In the first few days post-treatment, your skin begins its natural healing process:

Redness Begins To Subside: The flushed appearance starts to fade as your skin calms.
Tightness Or Dryness: Tightness is common as the outer layers begin to heal.
Peeling Or Flaking: As the old, treated skin sheds, you may notice light flaking or peeling. This is a normal and healthy sign that new skin is coming.

Week 1

By the end of the first week, early signs of rejuvenation begin to appear. Here’s how it usually goes:

New Skin Becomes Visible: The skin starts to reveal a fresher, healthier surface beneath.
Nourish With Care: Continue using gentle cleansers and moisturisers to support healing.
Sun Protection Is Essential: Avoid sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your sensitive, healing skin.

Weeks 2–3

In the second and third weeks following treatment, you’ll likely notice more visible improvements:

Enhanced Skin Texture: Your skin may feel noticeably smoother, softer, and more refined.
Improved Tone And Clarity: Areas of uneven pigmentation may begin to fade, and your complexion could appear brighter and more even overall.

What To Expect Over The Months

As your skin continues to heal and regenerate, the benefits of your facial laser treatment become increasingly visible. Here’s a general guide to what many people experience in the months following treatment:

One Month Post-Treatment

Around the one-month mark, subtle yet meaningful improvements often begin to surface:

Enhanced Skin Tightness And Tone: As collagen production continues beneath the surface, your skin may feel firmer and appear more refined.
Reduction In Acne Scars And Pigmentation: Areas of discolouration and mild scarring often begin to fade, revealing a more even and radiant complexion.

Three Months Post-Treatment

This is a key milestone in your skin’s recovery and renewal process:

Collagen Peaks: Natural collagen production reaches its height, contributing to smoother, plumper, more youthful skin.
Visible Improvement In Deeper Concerns: As the skin continues to strengthen from within, concerns like skin laxity and deeper wrinkles may show more noticeable changes.

Six Months To One Year Post-Treatment

Long-term improvements become more evident, especially when aftercare and maintenance are prioritised:

Sustained Results: Your laser treatment results can be enjoyed for several years with a healthy skincare routine and sun protection.
Ongoing Support: Your clinician may recommend maintenance treatments to help preserve your results, especially if you address chronic concerns such as sun damage, deep wrinkles, or pigmentation.

What Influences Your Facial Laser Treatment Before And After Results?

The journey of facial laser treatment before and after is uniquely personal, and several factors can shape the outcome of your experience. Understanding what influences results can help you prepare, set realistic expectations, and maximise your treatment benefits.

1. Skin Type And Tone

Your natural skin tone and type play a significant role in how your skin responds:

Lighter Skin Tones: Light skin tones often show faster initial results, especially with concerns like redness or uneven tone.
Darker Skin Types: UltraClear laser is designed for adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of complexions. Careful customisation ensures the treatment remains effective and precise, reducing the risk of hyperpigmentation or irritation.

2. Treated Area

The size and sensitivity of the treatment area can affect the healing timeline and the visibility of results:

Full-Face Treatment: Due to the broader surface being treated, this may take slightly longer to heal than smaller, localised areas.
Delicate Areas: Regions like the neck or around the mouth and eyes may need gentler settings and more time for full recovery.

3. Lifestyle And Aftercare

How you care for your skin after treatment is one of the biggest determinants of your final results:

Sun Protection Is Essential: Avoid excessive sun exposure and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to shield your healing skin.
Healthy Habits Make A Difference: Refrain from smoking, which can interfere with circulation and slow skin healing.
Skincare Matters: Avoid harsh products, especially those containing alcohol or strong acids. Stick with gentle, hydrating formulas approved by your clinician.
Hydration And Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in skin-supporting nutrients can help your skin heal more efficiently and beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a facial laser treatment session take?

It typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.

2. Can I go back to work after the procedure?

Depending on the treatment intensity and how your skin responds, you can return to work within 3 to 14 days.

Milder treatments may need only a few days of downtime, while deeper sessions, like full-face resurfacing, can take up to two weeks to heal. Your cosmetic doctor will guide you on the best time to resume daily activities.

3. How many sessions will I need?

It varies based on your goals and skin condition. You might benefit from three sessions or more, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart.

Conclusion

Facial laser treatment with UltraClear technology is an effective way to support skin rejuvenation, reduce the appearance of sun damage, and promote long-lasting improvement in tone and texture. While individual results vary, understanding the treatment process from start to finish helps you feel confident and well-informed.

Remember, great skin is a journey, not a quick fix. With the right care, patience, and guidance from your trusted clinic, you can enjoy beautiful, refreshed skin for years to come.

Are you thinking about taking the next step? We’re here in Miranda to help. Call 02 9526 8000 to book a personalised consultation with Dr Alan Evans to discuss your goals, ask questions, and explore whether UltraClear Laser treatment is right for you.

Sources

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Anne Dunkin, M. (2023, June 12). Laser Skin Resurfacing. WebMD. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-skin-resurfacing

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, October 26). Laser Resurfacing. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-resurfacing/about/pac-20385114

Mukherjee, T. (2023, December 17). What to Know Before Undergoing Laser Resurfacing for Better Skin. EverydayHealth. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/laser-resurfacing-better-skin-9-things-you-must-know/

Villines, Z. (2022, January 31). How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work? Medical News Today. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/laser-skin-resurfacing