Laser Skin Resurfacing Brisbane
We offer advanced fully ablative, non ablative and fractionated laser resurfacing to address fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage, and uneven texture. By stimulating new collagen and carefully renewing the skin surface, resurfacing can improve clarity and smoothness.
What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a dermatologist-led treatment designed to improve skin texture, pigmentation irregularities, acne scarring and sun-related skin changes. At Derm Skin Specialists, we use advanced laser technologies to tailor treatments to your skin type, concerns and downtime preferences.
Depending on your skin assessment, treatment options may include ablative and non-ablative laser technologies designed to support collagen remodelling and skin renewal.
In this video, Dr Mitch talks about the differences between treatments, downtime and what to expect.
At a glance
Targets fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation
Downtime
2–4 days (LaseMD Ultra) vs 7–14 days (CO₂)
Costs
Dr Mitch: From $1,495 (LaseMD Ultra) and from $4,990 (CO₂) Nurse: From $500 (LaseMD Ultra)
Treatment
LaseMD Ultra (non-ablative) or Candela CO₂ fully ablative
number of sessions
Improvement usually seen over 3–6 months
Common Treatment Areas
Skin resurfacing can be tailored to areas where signs of ageing, sun damage, or scarring are most visible:
Face
Fine lines, wrinkles, scars, pigmentation
Eyelids & Under-eye
Crepiness, laxity, texture irregularities
Neck and Décolletage
Sun damage, pigmentation, skin laxity
Back of hands
Thinning, pigmentation, and textural change
Not all areas are suitable for all laser types. Suitability depends on skin type, safety considerations, and individual goals, which are reviewed at consultation.
Before & After’s
Medical disclaimer
This page is general information only and not medical advice. All treatments and procedures carry risks and potential complications. Suitability, expected outcomes, recovery, and costs vary between individuals and are confirmed after clinical assessment. No specific result can be guaranteed.
Candela CO₂
(Fully ablative fractional)
LaseMD Ultra
(Non-ablative fractional)
Feature
Feature
Best for
Mechan-ism
Downtime
Sessions
Sessions
Costs
Comparing our resurfacing options
LaseMD Ultra
(Non-ablative fractional)
Sun damage, pigment, mild scars, early lines, prevention / maintenance
Candela CO₂
(Fully ablative fractional)
Creates microscopic channels without removing surface skin
2–4 days redness/flaking
2–4 (spaced 4–6 weeks apart)
Redness, swelling, temporary pigment changes
Dr Mitch from $1,495 | Nurse from $500
Deeper wrinkles, acne scarring, advanced photoaging, coarse texture
Removes thin layers of skin with controlled dermal heating
7–14 days healing; redness may persist
Usually one session; may repeat if required
Prolonged redness, infection, pigment changes, scarring
from $4,990
Final costs depend on treatment area, intensity, and number of sessions. Confirmed after consultation.
What to expect
LaseMD Ultra (Non-ablative)
Before
Avoid active skincare, sun exposure, and self-tanning for at least 1 week
Arrive 60 minutes early for application of topical anaesthetic
Baseline photos and consent are completed on the day
During
The procedure is well tolerated with topical anaesthetic alone; oral or inhaled analgesia can be provided if required
Treatment typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the area
Cooling air is used throughout for comfort
Immediately After
The skin appears mildly red and warm, similar to a light sunburn
A soothing serum or skin booster may be applied immediately post-treatment to enhance recovery and results
You can expect mild tightness or dryness for 1–2 days
Recovery and follow-up
Mild flaking or roughness may occur over 3–5 days as old cells shed
Itchiness or dryness can occur as the skin renews
Most patients return to normal activities within 2-4 days
A series of 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart achieves optimal results, with ongoing collagen remodelling over time
Candela CO₂ (Fully ablative)
Before
Avoid active skincare, sun exposure, and self-tanning for at least 2 weeks
Arrive 1 hour early for topical anaesthetic
Baseline photos and consent are completed on the day
You’ll be prescribed prophylactic medication to prevent cold sores and infection
During
Oral and inhaled analgesia are provided; nerve blocks may be used for larger or sensitive areas
Treatment takes 45–90 minutes depending on area and depth
Cooling and smoke evacuation are used throughout for safety and comfort
Immediately After
Expect warmth, redness, swelling and pinpoint oozing
A topical skin booster may be applied immediately post-procedure to enhance recovery
A soothing occlusive layer is applied to protect the healing skin
Patients remain under observation for about 60 minutes before going home
Recovery and follow-up
Crusting and peeling occur over 5–10 days, followed by fading pinkness for several weeks
Itching is common as the skin heals
LED therapy is provided twice weekly for 4–6 weeks to aid healing and reduce inflammation
Follow-ups occur at Day 1, Day 7, and Day 30 with the doctor
Most patients resume light duties within 7–10 days; redness gradually settles
Collagen remodelling and results continue to improve for 3–6 months
Usually performed as a single treatment; deeper resurfacing may be staged for best results.
Full Co2 Journey
Risks and side effects
All medical procedures carry risks. Possible issues include:
Redness, swelling, discomfort (expected)
Pigmentation changes (lighter or darker areas)
Infection or delayed healing
Scarring (rare)
Reactivation of cold sores in those with prior history
Risks, prevention, and management are discussed individually during consultation.
Recovery
After-care often includes saline soaks, protective ointment, LED light therapy, and sun protection, though details vary depending on the procedure and laser intensity.
Commonly, the skin feels warm, red, or tight for several days as new skin forms. Regular moisturising, gentle cleansing, and daily SPF 50+ help support the healing process and optimise results."
Our Most Commonly Asked Questions
Medical disclaimer
This page is general information only. Suitability, expected outcomes and Medicare eligibility depends on individual assessment.
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LaseMD Ultra can be tailored to many skin types. Fully ablative CO₂ carries higher pigment-change risk in darker skin and may not be recommended.
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Results are usually long-lasting, but skin continues to age. Maintenance care, sun protection, and occasional touch-ups help preserve improvement.
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LaseMD Ultra: usually 2–3 days. CO₂: usually 1–2 weeks.
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No. Individual results vary and depend on skin type, concern treated, and healing response
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Most patients describe treatment as tolerable, with comfort measures used depending on the treatment intensity.
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The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated, treatment intensity and individual skin response.
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Laser resurfacing may be considered as part of an acne scar management plan following dermatologist assessment.
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Downtime varies depending on the laser used and treatment intensity. Your dermatologist will discuss expected recovery during consultation.
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Certain laser technologies may assist with pigmentation concerns where clinically appropriate.
Not sure where to start?
The best starting point is a dermatology consultation. That’s where we confirm the acne pattern, scarring risk, and the most appropriate pathway.
If your main goal is treatment planning and understanding device, a complimentary nurse-led consult can help you get oriented, and we'll tell you if a dermatologist assessment is necessary to move forward and explain the next steps.