At The Skin Doctor, facial resurfacing is not about chasing perfection – it’s about resetting the surface of the skin in a thoughtful, controlled way.
We use resurfacing treatments to support:
always with one guiding principle:
your skin should still look like your skin – just clearer, calmer and more refined.
All resurfacing is doctor-led and tailored to your skin type, lifestyle and tolerance for downtime.
Before any resurfacing treatment, you’ll have a thorough medical consultation with one of our doctors.
You’ll have time to consider the plan before proceeding with any procedure.
Facial resurfacing refers to controlled removal of the outer skin layers, or targeted stimulation of renewal, to encourage:
This can be done with:
Resurfacing is carefully calibrated – from very gentle “refresh” treatments with minimal downtime, through to deeper, more intensive procedures that require a structured recovery period.
Depending on the modality used and the depth of treatment, resurfacing may assist in the management of:
Not every concern is best treated with resurfacing alone; sometimes we combine resurfacing with collagen-stimulating treatments, pigment management, or medical skincare as part of a broader plan.
We do not believe in a “one laser fits all” model.
Instead, we select the least intensive treatment likely to achieve a meaningful improvement, while respecting your skin type and lifestyle.
Treatment options may include:
Fractional or full-field laser resurfacing can remove or vaporise microscopic columns of skin, encouraging collagen remodelling and renewal of the surface. Depth and intensity are adjusted to your skin and the area being treated.
Erbium-based treatments can precisely remove very thin layers of the epidermis, helping to soften lines and improve texture while allowing more control over heat and recovery.
Combining microneedling with radiofrequency or other energy sources can support both texture and collagen with typically less surface ablation than fully ablative lasers.
From light peels with minimal downtime to stronger, more corrective options, chemical peels use carefully selected acids to dissolve or shed surface layers and stimulate renewal.
The exact devices and products we use are selected and performed by trained clinicians under medical supervision.
Your experience will depend on the specific treatment, but generally includes:
Downtime can range from no visible downtime (for very light peels or minimal resurfacing) to several days or more for stronger, corrective procedures. Your doctor or dermal therapist will discuss this clearly in advance.
Both laser and non-laser treatments can resurface the skin:
The “best” option depends on your skin type, concern, desired downtime and medical history – there is no one universal answer.
At The Skin Doctor, the choice is always made in consultation with you, after a full assessment.
Am I a suitable candidate for facial resurfacing?
You may be suitable if you are in generally good health, have realistic expectations and wish to improve texture, fine lines, mild scarring or visible sun damage. Certain skin types, medical conditions and medications may affect suitability; this is why a medical consultation is essential.
Which resurfacing treatment has the least downtime?
Lighter chemical peels and very gentle fractional treatments usually have the least downtime, but also more gradual change. The priority should be matching the right treatment to your concern, not simply choosing the mildest option.
How many treatments will I need?
Some resurfacing procedures are done as a series of lighter treatments; others are more intensive and performed less frequently. Your doctor will recommend a plan based on your skin and goals.
Will one treatment “fix” everything?
Resurfacing can produce meaningful improvements, but it does not stop the natural ageing process. Many patients benefit from a long-term plan that may include maintenance treatments, medical skincare and sun protection.
If you’re considering facial resurfacing for texture, fine lines, scarring or visible sun damage, our doctors and dermal therapists can help you understand your options in a clear, realistic way.
We focus on safety, subtlety and long-term skin health – so your results feel like you, just refreshed.
The Skin Doctor is a leading centre for cosmetic and medical skin treatments, including the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers.