About Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing at Hermosa Plastic Surgery in Albuquerque, NM is a noninvasive cosmetic treatment that uses targeted beams of energy to gently exfoliate damaged surface skin, layer by layer. This procedure is excellent for reducing facial lines and wrinkles and improving skin imperfections such as pigmentation irregularities, acne scars, and more. Often called a laser peel, fractional skin resurfacing is ideal for those seeking clearer, softer, and more youthful-looking skin. Treatments are customized based on each patient’s skin needs. Most patients require minimal recovery time. Any questions or concerns can be addressed during your private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Miguel Gallegos.

Request an Appointment

What Are the Types of Laser Treatments?

Hermosa Plastic Surgery offers three main types of laser skin resurfacing, chosen according to your skin’s condition and treatment goals:

Ablative Laser Treatments

Ablative lasers remove thin layers of skin with precision, similar to dermabrasion or a deep chemical peel, but with greater control to protect surrounding skin. These treatments are ideal for tightening skin and improving deep wrinkles and acne scars.

Non-Ablative Laser Treatments

Non-ablative lasers do not remove skin layers; instead, they create micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing process. These treatments are best for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, though results develop gradually over several months.

Fractional Laser Treatments

Fractional lasers combine ablative and non-ablative approaches by targeting small fractions of skin to encourage collagen production and repair deeper layers. This method effectively treats wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and pigmentation issues.

Cutera® XEO Laser System

Dr. Gallegos uses the advanced Cutera XEO System for precise laser skin resurfacing. This versatile system includes several technologies to address specific skin concerns:

  • Pearl™ – Skin resurfacing to smooth texture, reduce wrinkles, and correct pigmentation
  • TITAN® – Skin tightening for the face, neck, arms, abdomen, and more
  • LimeLight™ – Skin rejuvenation targeting redness, sun damage, and small veins
  • ProWave 770™ – Hair removal
  • Xeo YAG Laser – Treatment of spider veins and vascular conditions

The Cutera XEO System is suitable for patients aged 18 and older.

Matrix Fractionated CO2 Laser

In addition to Cutera XEO, Dr. Gallegos offers the Matrix Fractionated CO2 Laser, a nonsurgical, noninvasive technology that accelerates your body’s collagen production. This treatment renews collagen without damaging the skin’s surface, leading to optimal results with minimal downtime. It is safe and effective for most skin types and body areas.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing at Hermosa Plastic Surgery provides many benefits to rejuvenate your complexion, including:

  • Boosts self-confidence by improving skin appearance
  • Reduces the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines
  • Evens out uneven skin texture
  • Tightens enlarged pores
  • Diminishes scars and sun damage

Am I a Candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is suitable for individuals unhappy with their overall skin texture and appearance. It can address sun damage, age spots, acne scars, wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities, and redness. It is also effective for rough or scaly skin patches. However, this treatment is generally not recommended for those with very dark skin tones or active acne. Recovery times vary depending on the treatment type and skin condition; some patients may need 2 to 3 weeks to heal fully.