Laser: Lumenis XPL & ResurFX

Lumenis XPL: spots and vessels

The Lumenis XPL delivers high-powered light with contact cooling, which keeps treatment comfortable while it clears sun spots, freckling from years of Colorado exposure, and the fine facial vessels that make skin look flushed. Most pigment and redness plans run two to four sessions spaced three to four weeks apart, with visible fading after the first.

ResurFX: texture, scarring, and collagen production

ResurFX is non-ablative fractional resurfacing — it delivers heat deep into the dermis to stimulate collagen production while leaving the surface intact, so you get real remodeling with far less downtime than ablative lasers. It is my preferred option for acne scarring, crepey texture, enlarged pores, and stretch marks. Most plans run three to five sessions a month apart, with results continuing to improve for months after the last one.

What a session feels like

You wear protective eyewear throughout. XPL feels like a warm snap with cool contact between pulses; ResurFX feels like heat with a prickling sensation, and I use topical numbing for facial treatments. Expect redness and mild swelling that looks like a sunburn for one to three days.

Sun, season, and safety

Laser and fresh tans do not mix, so we avoid treating recently sun-exposed skin and I ask for strict SPF between sessions. Fall and winter are the easiest seasons to run a series here. I test-spot when your skin type or history calls for it rather than assuming settings.

Common questions

How soon will I see results?

Brown spots often darken then flake away within a week or two of an XPL session. ResurFX collagen changes build gradually, with texture continuing to improve for three to six months.

Which laser do I need?

That is what the consult is for. Pigment and redness go to Lumenis XPL; texture, scarring, and fine lines go to ResurFX. Some plans use both at different visits.

Does it work on tanned or darker skin?

ResurFX is safe across a wide range of skin types. XPL relies on contrast between the target and surrounding skin, so settings and candidacy matter — we assess this carefully rather than guess.

How much downtime is there?

Plan on redness and warmth for a day or two, sometimes up to three after a fuller ResurFX pass. Makeup is usually fine the following day.