If you've tried the bleaching creams, home skin care kits and other lotions and potions to no avail, there is a solution. Luckily, laser skin resurfacing is a procedure that can reverse the damage caused by internal and external factors.

So, exactly how does it work, you ask? Well, simply put, the laser kills whatever skin it passes over leaving the way for new healthy skin to grow. The surgeon uses a laser that converts light energy into heat and this heat is what kills the skin. With each pass over an area, a very thin layer dies and is wiped off with sterile water during the procedure.

Because there is some pain involved, the surgeon will apply an anesthetic to the area and may give you a sedative or something for anxiety. You will feel a pin-prick type sensation that may cause some discomfort as well as the snapping of the laser.

As this is occurring, the laser removes or nearly removes whatever imperfections the doctor has targeted. Maybe you had bad acne as a teen-ager and are now left with discolored spots and scars. If you are still a teen, this can be a confidence killer and may be fodder for cruel jokes. It is hard enough being a teen without this added difficulty.

Laser skin resurfacing can either completely remove any indication of acne breakouts or in the very least, greatly improve the condition of the skin so it is not so apparent. If you are an adult, it really isn't any easier. Whatever your age, this procedure can improve your confidence and give you clearer, more vibrant skin.

Other common skin problems are discoloration and wrinkles. These are a result of sun damage and the natural aging of the skin. Laser skin resurfacing can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, particularly those laugh lines and crows feet.

Hyper-pigmentation is caused by sun damage, medications, hormonal changes and normal aging. You can even your skin tone with this procedure and return your face to a more youthful appearance.

Unsightly growths and hair can also be removed from the face. It is important here that the growth is checked out first to make sure it is not a cancerous growth. It may take several passes of the laser to remove such skin growths.

In the removal of hair, the laser kills the hair follicles thereby preventing new hair growth. This can be done not only on the face, but other parts of the body as well.

To make laser skin resurfacing worth your time and money, it is important to maintain good skin care following the procedure. Follow all of your recovery instructions given by the surgeon. Always wear sunscreen and moisturizer.

This procedure can erase damage done to the skin, but it can not prevent new damage from occurring, so it is imperative that you take good care of your skin. This will help maximize your results and, though it won't stop it, perhaps slow the natural aging process of your skin so you can keep a more youthful look as you age.