Laser Skin Resurfacing in Denver
Living a mile high comes with distinct advantages, but Denver’s intense UV exposure and dry climate act as significant stressors on the skin. Over time, this high-altitude environment accelerates the breakdown of collagen, leading to premature aging, sun damage, and uneven texture.
At Core Dermatology, we are the region’s premier medical laser center. We specialize in reversing this environmental damage using laser skin resurfacing treatments and the advanced Sciton® platform. Whether you require a light polish or deep restoration, our board-certified team customizes treatments to restore your skin’s health and radiance.
Understanding Laser Skin Resurfacing
What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a medical procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to remove damaged layers of skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process to generate smoother, firmer skin.
How Laser Skin Resurfacing Works: By creating controlled thermal zones, the laser triggers the production of new collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin structure and elasticity.
The “wound healing response” initiated by the laser replaces old, damaged tissue with fresh, healthy skin. Treatments generally fall into three categories:
Ablative Laser
Fully removes the outer layer of skin (epidermis) for dramatic restructuring.
Fractional Laser
Treats only a fraction of the skin by creating narrow, deep columns, leaving surrounding tissue intact for faster healing.
Hybrid Laser
Combines different wavelengths to target both surface texture and deep dermis simultaneously.
How It Helps
Conditions Treated with Laser Therapy and Laser Resurfacing
Laser therapy via laser resurfacing is a versatile solution for a wide range of cosmetic and medical skin concerns. Our facial resurfacing laser protocols are effective for:
Sun Damage and Age Spots
Specifically targeting Lentigines caused by Denver's UV index.
Deep Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Smoothing dynamic and static Rhytides.
Acne Scars and Surgical Scars
Remodeling tissue to reduce scar depth and visibility.
Uneven Skin Tone and Texture
Refining rough patches and enlarged pores.
Actinic Keratoses
Treating rough, pre-cancerous spots (providing a medical benefit alongside cosmetic improvement).
Laser Resurfacing Options
Our Sciton® Laser Platform
We utilize the Sciton® JOULE™ platform, widely regarded as the industry benchmark for versatility and results.
Fully Ablative Erbium Resurfacing
(Contour TRL™)The Contour TRL™ (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) is the “Gold Standard” for addressing deep wrinkles (rhytides), acne scars, and poor skin tone. It gives our physicians the ability to vaporize tissue with micron-level precision, offering the most dramatic results possible in a single treatment.
Ablative Fractional Erbium
(ProFractional™)ProFractional™ therapy uses a laser micro-beam to treat thousands of pinpoint areas of your skin. By “drilling” these microscopic channels, the laser stimulates deep collagen remodeling while leaving bridges of untreated skin to speed up recovery. It provides significant tightening with less downtime than full ablation.
HALO™ Hybrid Fractional Resurfacing
HALO™ is the world’s first Hybrid Fractional Laser. It delivers both ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to the same microscopic treatment zone. This dual action targets the top layer for pigment and pore size (the “Halo Glow”) while heating the deep dermis to combat aging, all with a comfortable patient experience.
MicroLaser Peel
MicroLaser Peel removes a thin layer of damaged skin to improve texture and provide a more youthful appearance. It provides immediate radiance with minimal downtime compared to deeper peels.
Comparison of Sciton Laser Treatments
| Brand | Contour TRL™ | ProFractional™ | Halo™ | MicroLaserPeel® |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Deep wrinkles, lip lines, heavy sun damage. | Deep acne scars, surgical scars, skin tightening. | Pigment, pore size, “Glow,” fine lines. | Rough texture, dullness, keratosis. |
| Social Downtime* | 14 Days (Redness may persist longer) |
7–10 Days (Pinpoint bleeding then peeling) |
5–7 Days (Heavy peeling, “bronzed” look) |
2–7 Days (Flaking like a sunburn) |
| Sessions Needed | 1 (One and done) |
1–3 (Depends on severity) |
1–2 (Yearly maintenance recommended) |
1–3 (Or as quarterly maintenance) |
| Pain Level (1-10)** | 6–8 (Nerve blocks provided) |
5–7 (Topical numbing + cooling) |
3–5 (Hot sensation, well-tolerated) |
2–3 (Mild snapping feel) |
| Results Longevity | Years (Resets the clock) |
Permanent (For scar remodeling) |
Multi-Year (With sun protection) |
6–12 Months (Refreshes appearance) |
*Social Downtime refers to the time needed before most patients feel comfortable appearing in public with makeup.
**Pain Level is estimated based on patient feedback without anesthesia, however, Core Dermatology utilizes medical grade numbing, nerve blocks, and cooling systems to significantly reduce these sensations.
Why choose us
Why Choose Core Dermatology for Laser Skin Resurfacing
When considering laser treatments for your skin, the provider’s expertise is just as critical as the technology. Core Dermatology offers a level of safety and clinical excellence that distinguishes us from local med spas.
Expertise, Specialization & Safety
55+ Years of Experience:
Our practice is built on over five decades of combined dermatologic expertise.
Expert Credentialing:
Our laser center is led by Dr. Michael Contreras, an expert cosmetic dermatologist, alongside a full team of board-certified dermatologists. We understand the biology of the skin, not just how to operate a machine.
Medical Grade Safety:
We adhere to strict medical protocols. We can administer advanced pain management options (including nerve blocks) that are unavailable in non-medical settings.
The “One-Stop” Destination:
We treat the complete picture of skin health, ensuring your cosmetic goals align with your medical needs.
Treatments Customized for Denver Climate:
We understand the unique challenges of the Colorado climate. Our laser settings are specifically calibrated to account for the dryness and altitude of Denver, ensuring your skin remains hydrated and protected during the delicate healing phase.
Customized Combination Treatments (Laser Stacking)
At Core Dermatology, we rarely use a “one-size-fits-all” approach. To achieve full restoration, we frequently design bespoke plans that combine multiple devices in a single session.
This “stacking” strategy allows us to treat different depths and concerns simultaneously and differentiates us from other clinics. Read more about laser stacking in the Marie Claire article featuring Dr. Contreras.
A typical “Full Restoration” protocol may include:
- Mouth & Eyes: High-depth Contour TRL to erase deep, etched-in lines.
- Full Face: ProFractional therapy to induce overall tightening and collagen synthesis.
- Neck & Chest: HALO treatment to address sun damage and pigment blending.
- Hands: A light MicroLaserPeel to remove age spots and weathering.
Full Transparrncy
The Patient Journey: Recovery and Results
Preparing for Your Laser Treatment
Preparation is key to a safe procedure. Patients must avoid direct sun exposure and self-tanners for at least two weeks prior to treatment. We may also prescribe a pre-treatment skincare regimen to prime your skin for optimal healing.
The Healing Process
Recovery varies significantly by device.
MicroLaserPeel / HALO:
You will likely experience redness and a “sandpaper” texture as the old skin sloughs off over 3–5 days.
Contour TRL / ProFractional:
These deeper treatments involve an “oozing” phase followed by peeling. Redness can persist for several weeks as new collagen forms.
Aftercare for Denver Patients
"High-Altitude Recovery Protocol"Recovering from laser skin resurfacing in Denver presents unique challenges compared to more humid, sea-level climates. The combination of high altitude, low humidity, and intense UV radiation requires a specific aftercare strategy.
The “Vampire Rule” (Strict Sun Avoidance):
At 5,280 feet, UV radiation is approximately 25% stronger than at sea level. Freshly lasered skin has zero defense against this intensity. You must avoid direct sun exposure entirely until your skin has re-epithelialized (healed over). Once cleared by Dr. Contreras, apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 40+) daily, even if you are just driving or sitting near a window.
Combatting the Dry Air (Moisture Locking):
Colorado’s arid climate acts like a sponge, pulling moisture from compromised skin. To prevent cracking or slow healing, you must keep the treated area constantly occluded with a medical-grade protective balm (such as Aquaphor or the specific post-care ointment provided in your kit). If the skin feels dry or tight, you are overdue for reapplication.
Humidify Your Environment:
We strongly recommend running a cool-mist humidifier next to your bed while you sleep. keeping the ambient humidity above 40% helps soothe the skin and prevents the "tight" feeling often experienced upon waking in Denver's dry mornings.
Hydration from Within:
The body loses water faster at high elevation. Increase your water intake significantly during the first week of recovery to support cellular regeneration and flush out metabolic waste products from the healing process.
Temperature Control:
Avoid the temptation of hot showers or steam rooms. Heat causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can prolong redness and swelling. Stick to lukewarm water and keep your face away from direct heat sources like fireplaces or car heaters.
A detailed comparison of our laser resurfacing recovery timelines is below.
| Laser Treatment | Contour TRL™ | ProFractional™ | Halo™ | MicroLaserPeel® (superficial) | MicroLaserPeel® (deep) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swelling, crusting, oozing, discomfort | 4–5 days | 3–4 days | 1–2 days | 1–2 days | 1–2 days |
| Redness, peeling, mild crusting | 8–12 days | 6–7 days | 4–5 days | 4–5 days | 4–5 days |
| Pink skin color | 12–16 weeks | 4–8 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 1–2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Time away from social functions | 14 days | 7–10 days | 5–7 days | 2–3 days | 5–7 days |
Real Patient Results
Laser Resurfacing Before and After: Real Patient Results
Results typically begin to appear once peeling subsides, with continued improvement for 3 to 6 months as collagen rebuilds. During your consultation, we will review Halo laser before and after and Erbium laser before and after photos from our own patient gallery to help you visualize potential outcomes. Some samples of these are below.
HALO Before and After
HALO on Face
Heavy sun spots significantly reduced after single HALO laser treatment.
HALO on Face
HALO reduced sun spots and produced smoother skin after just one use.
HALO Around Mouth
Smoother skin and more even skin tone after just one HALO laser session.
HALO on Face
HALO significantly evened and smoothed skin tone after just one use.
HALO on Face
Sun spots and redness reduced after single HALO laser treatment.
HALO on Face
Skin noticably clearing and brighter after a single HALO laser treatment.
ProFractional Before and After
ProFractional on Face
Reduction in sun spots and wrinkles after single ProFractional laser treatment.
ProFractional around Eye
Reduction in redness and more even skin around the eye after a single ProFractional laser treatment.
ProFractional around Eye
Reduction in redness and wrinkles around the eye after a single ProFractional laser treatment.
Contour TRL Before and After
Real Patient Reviews
Real Reviews from Our Denver Patients
In Your Neighborhood
Serving Denver and Surrounding Areas
Core Dermatology is proud to serve the greater Denver metropolitan area. Conveniently located near major highways, we are easily accessible to patients coming from Cherry Creek, LoDo, Highlands, and surrounding suburbs.
Core Dermatology
4500 Cherry Creek S Dr #600
Denver, CO 80246
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Laser Skin Resurfacing
What is the difference between Erbium and CO2 lasers?
Erbium lasers (like the Sciton) are highly absorbed by water, allowing for precise tissue vaporization with less surrounding thermal damage. This often results in faster healing and less prolonged redness compared to traditional CO2 lasers, while still delivering comparable results.
Does laser resurfacing hurt?
Treatment pain varries depending on the laser used but at Core Dermatology, we prioritize your comfort. For lighter treatments like HALO, topical numbing cream is sufficient. For deep resurfacing (TRL), Core Dermatology utilizes advanced pain management, including nerve blocks and cooling air, to make the procedure manageable.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the aggressiveness of the treatment. A deep Erbium TRL is often a “one and done” procedure. Lighter treatments like HALO or MicroLaserPeel may require a series of 1–3 sessions to achieve your desired outcome.
Is laser resurfacing safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, but caution is required. Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) are at higher risk for hyperpigmentation. We use tunable lasers and specific wavelengths to treat diverse skin tones safely. A consultation is mandatory to determine candidacy.
For fractional ablative resurfacing, when will I be completely healed?
At 1 week most patients will have only mild scattered redness which can be covered with makeup. Social engagements are not recommended for at least 1 week after treatment.
For fractional ablative resurfacing, how many treatments are recommended? How far apart?
1-3 treatments depending on severity of surface wrinkles and texture, spaced 3-4 months apart.
For fractional ablative resurfacing, how painful is treatment?
Pain 6/10. Most patients elect for oral pain medicine and anxiolytic (Ativan) taken one hour before treatment, making it well-tolerated; but you must have a driver to take you home. Anesthetic nerve blocks are sometimes administered by your doctor first to sensitive areas such as around the mouth (dental block). Topical anesthetic is applied at least 45 minutes prior to treatment.
For fractional ablative resurfacing, how long does the treatment take?
Expect to be in the office for around 2 hours, but the actual treatment time averages 1 hour for a full face treatment, and shorter if only focal areas are treated like around the mouth or for localized acne scarring.
For fractional ablative resurfacing, when can I expect to see the full results?
The full result of collagen building and improved skin appearance takes 3-4 months.
For fully ablative contour TRL, when will I be completely healed?
Most people can wear makeup again after about 2 weeks, which helps hide any remaining redness. We recommend avoiding social activities for at least 14 days to ensure proper healing.
For fully ablative contour TRL, how painful is the treatment?
The procedure can be quite uncomfortable, rated around 6-8 out of 10 in pain. To help manage this:
- You may take prescribed pain medication (like oxycodone) and anti-anxiety medicine (like Ativan or Halcion) before the procedure.
- Nerve blocking anesthetic can be injected if treatment covers sensitive areas like around the mouth or eyes.
- A strong topical numbing cream is applied an hour before your treatment.
- The most discomfort usually lasts for the first 2-3 days after treatment. Some people manage pain with Tylenol, while others prefer stronger prescription medications.
For fully ablative contour TRL, when can I expect to see the full results?
The full result of collagen building and wrinkle reduction takes 3-4 months, but the early results will be obvious after the skin peeling has finished. With proper skincare and sun protection, results can last for several years, but aging and environmental factors will continue to influence your skin over time.
For fully ablative contour TRL, how many treatments are recommended? How far apart?
Many patients see their best results from just one treatment, which can last for several years. Sometimes, a follow-up treatment may be done on specific areas if needed.
For fully ablative contour TRL, how long does the treatment take?
Plan to be in our office for about 2 to 3 hours, with the actual laser treatment lasting 60 to 90 minutes for a full face treatment.
For fully ablative contour TRL, is the treatment suitable for all skin types?
This treatment can be performed on most skin types, but darker skin types may have a higher risk of pigment changes. It’s essential to consult with your physician to assess your skin type and suitability.
For HALO, how many treatments are recommended?
Halo’s hybrid technology often requires fewer sessions than older lasers to see dramatic improvement, delivering visible results in just one, or sometimes two treatments. Treatment plans are always individualized. Factors like skin sensitivity, downtime tolerance, and concerns (such as acne scarring or pigmentation) will affect the recommended number of sessions.
A consultation determines the most effective and safe schedule for each person. Dr. Contreras will customize your treatment using settings appropriate for the degree of sun damage and wrinkling present while taking into consideration the allowable recovery time.
What is the "HALO Glow"?
The “Halo glow” refers to the radiant, luminous skin quality that appears days to weeks after Halo laser treatment, characterized by healthy radiance and clarity. Halo is for those seeking refreshed, youthful skin without major downtime. Improvements begin around day 5–7, with full glow apparent by 1–2 weeks and lasting several weeks to months.
About HALO laser stacking and what makes HALO with Dr. Contreras special?
Read Marie Claire article about Halo laser stacking featuring Dr. Contreras here.
Dr. Contreras strives to achieve noticeable, satisfying results while balancing downtime, safety, and patient preferences. Laser stacking refers to using multiple energy devices or lasers during the same session to achieve the best possible results in one visit. Common combinations include Halo with BBL (for sun damage), VBeam (for redness, vessels) and microlaser peel (MLP) for rough or raised spots. Our Halo pricing always includes any of these “stacked” treatments.