LASERS ----this entry not for the queasy

Friday midday I had laser resurfacing on the lower half of my face.
It is an interesting procedure as it isn't really horrible until it is over and you will see the results as I see them and understand what is involved because the doctor really downplays the after effects.

so here I am before. I have had 2 chemical peels and some IPL for redness prior to this
my skin history included
Rosaceae
Skin Cancer
ChickenPox
Biopsy scar from a benign lesion
and here is my "cough cough" year old skin before the laser
no makeup obviously

you will see the texture I am trying to repair around the lose and mouth.

they (Dr. Bernard Gasch) used an Erbium laser for retexturizing.
Not only does it remove layers of the skin it encourages new collagen growth to fill in small lines

Remember: This is considered a medium procedure not deep.

here is my face upon arriving home

it is deep red, very hot and for 24 hours I can only use cold water and ice compresses on it.
The next morning the horror really begins. with the crusting and ooze the doctor said would happen. I am at this point able to wash with a special product he gave me and then put a "medical barrier" cream on it. It feel like a crust crab and isn't painful unless I smile talk or move my face.

and yep it gets worse before it gets better.
I am no longer on pain killers- just wash and hydrate with the Rx products.
But I have canceled two of my volunteer events as I don't want to frighten the natives.

Looks like leprosy or if you are kind like I just ate spaghetti and meatballs without my hands.

here is a photo of day four (3 days post procedure)
now there is no pain, just itchy as hell. and I have this gunky cream I have to wear to keep it hydrated.

day five (above) looks more like strawberry preserves all over face. I am feeling human again.

whoa! Look at the next picture....what a different a day makes- plus the excellent products they had me use on the healing skin.
Epionce. I highly recommend the entire line available thru your skin doctor.

One week later shows almost all of the deep crusting gone and skin is still pink, flakes and itches but I have come a long way. the pores on the nose are almost invisible now. I think I will be pleased with this.