Ablative laser resurfacing: is it still the gold standard for facial rejuvenation?

A new era in dermatological cosmetology, especially in the field of nonsurgical skin rejuvenation, started with ablative resurfacing, at first by carbon dioxide laser and later by Er:YAG or their combination. Although ablative lasers result in major improvements in photodamaged skin, the related postoperative recovery time and side effects are currently unacceptable for most patients. During the last forty years, skin resurfacing has changed dramatically. After ablative laser systems, nonablative and now fractional laser systems have been developed, fulfilling the new demands for a lesser risk of side effects and minimal or no downtime.