Laser Treatments for Wrinkles: How Light Therapy Rejuvenates Aging Skin

December 3, 2025 by VitalSkin Dermatology

 

Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of aging. Over time, the skin’s production of collagen and elastin slows down, sun exposure breaks down its structure, and repetitive facial movements deepen expression lines. While these changes are inevitable, modern dermatology offers new ways to soften lines and wrinkles without surgery.

Among the most effective approaches are laser and light-based treatments. These procedures use concentrated energy to remove damaged skin cells, stimulate collagen, and promote smoother, firmer skin.

What Are Laser Treatments for Wrinkles?

Laser wrinkle treatments rely on focused light energy to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing process, stimulating new collagen and elastin growth that helps reduce wrinkles and improve texture.

There are two main categories of lasers:

• Ablative lasers remove thin outer layers of skin while heating deeper layers to encourage regeneration. CO2 and Erbium lasers fall into this group and deliver dramatic results for deeper lines.
• Non-ablative lasers heat the underlying skin tissue without removing surface layers. These are gentler, with minimal downtime, and are effective for early wrinkles or maintenance therapy.

Both methods work by encouraging the skin to rebuild itself from within. Over several weeks, new collagen fills and smooths wrinkles, leading to more youthful-looking skin.

Why Choose Laser or Light Therapy for Wrinkle Reduction?

Many treatments claim to improve wrinkles, but laser and light-based therapy stand out for several reasons:

• Precision: Dermatologists can control the depth, intensity, and area treated, targeting fine lines without affecting surrounding skin.
• Customization: Lasers can be adjusted for different skin types, colors, and sensitivities.
• Stimulated collagen production: Unlike topical products, lasers encourage natural skin remodeling that continues long after treatment.
• Minimal downtime: Non-ablative and fractional lasers allow quick recovery compared to traditional resurfacing.
• Comprehensive rejuvenation: These treatments often improve overall tone, texture, and pigmentation, not just wrinkles.

For patients looking to restore smoothness and elasticity without surgery, laser wrinkle treatment provides a science-based, lasting option.

Pairing Laser and Light-Based Treatment Options with Additional Treatment for Effective Wrinkle-Reducing Results

Dermatologists often combine laser therapy with complementary techniques to achieve balanced, natural results. Understanding your options helps you set realistic expectations.

Laser Resurfacing

CO2 and Erbium lasers remove damaged outer skin layers and tighten the underlying structure. They deliver significant improvement for moderate to deep wrinkles but require short healing periods.

Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Gentler lasers such as Fraxel® or ND:YAG target lower skin layers without removing the surface, making them ideal for maintenance or fine-line prevention.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels exfoliate the uppermost skin layers using controlled acids. They’re effective for fine lines, rough texture, or sun damage. Peels can also prepare the skin for deeper treatments such as laser resurfacing.

Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion

Both methods use physical exfoliation to smooth surface irregularities. While results are modest compared to lasers, these procedures can refresh dull or uneven skin tone.

Neuromodulators

Botulinum toxin injections temporarily relax the muscles responsible for expression lines like crow’s-feet and frown lines. They pair well with lasers, which improve static wrinkles that remain when the face is at rest.

Soft-Tissue Fillers

Hyaluronic acid and collagen stimulators restore lost volume beneath deeper wrinkles, creating smoother contours. Some dermatologists use fillers to complement laser resurfacing for a full-face rejuvenation.

Targeted Laser Treatments by Area of Concern

Wrinkles appear in distinct patterns across the face and body. Dermatologists tailor energy levels and techniques based on skin thickness, sensitivity, and motion in each zone.

• Forehead wrinkles: Fractional or ablative CO2 lasers smooth deep horizontal lines caused by repeated expression.
• Under-eye wrinkles: Gentle non-ablative lasers minimize fine lines and improve skin texture without thinning delicate tissue.
• Neck wrinkles: Fractional resurfacing tightens lax skin and softens vertical bands for a firmer appearance.
• Lip wrinkles: Precise laser passes fade vertical “smoker’s lines” and restore a smoother texture.
• Chest wrinkles: Light-based treatments reduce sun-related damage and pigmentation while stimulating collagen renewal.

Results vary depending on the area and treatment strength, but most patients notice gradual improvement over several sessions.

Preparing for Your Laser Wrinkle Treatment

Preparation ensures a smoother procedure and recovery. Your dermatologist will review your medical history, skincare products, and any medications that might increase sensitivity.

Two Weeks Before Treatment

• Avoid tanning beds, self-tanners, or unprotected sun exposure.
• Pause exfoliating acids or retinoids unless directed otherwise.
• Use a gentle moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.

Day of Treatment

• Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin.
• Your provider may apply a topical anesthetic or cooling gel.
• Eye protection will be provided during the procedure.

Good preparation helps minimize side effects and supports consistent results.

What to Expect After Laser Treatment

Immediately after treatment, the skin may appear red or mildly swollen, similar to a light sunburn. Most patients experience only minimal discomfort, which subsides within 24–48 hours.

Short-Term Recovery

Keep the area clean and moisturized with fragrance-free products. Also, avoid direct sunlight and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Additionally, makeup can typically be worn after a few days, depending on the laser type.

Long-Term Results

New collagen formation continues for months, with visible improvement in tone, texture, and fine lines around 6–12 weeks post-treatment. Non-ablative laser results build gradually, while ablative systems deliver more dramatic change after one or two sessions.

Possible Risks and Safety Considerations

Laser wrinkle treatments are safe when performed by experienced professionals, but all procedures carry some risk. Possible temporary effects include:

• Mild redness or tenderness.
• Temporary pigment changes (light or dark spots).
• Minor flaking or crusting during healing.

Less common risks include scarring or infection, which are typically avoidable through proper aftercare and the use of medical-grade equipment.

To minimize complications, always seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist who has access to the full range of laser technologies and can tailor intensity to your skin type.

How Many Sessions Will You Need?

The number of sessions depends on several factors:

• Laser type: Ablative lasers may achieve results in one session, while non-ablative treatments often require three to six visits.
• Wrinkle depth: Deeper lines need more energy and repeated sessions.
• Lifestyle and maintenance: Sun protection and skincare influence how long results last.

Your dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan aligned with your skin’s needs and your schedule. Maintenance treatments every 6–12 months can help sustain collagen activity.

Laser Results: Realistic Expectations

Laser therapy doesn’t stop aging, but it helps reset the clock. Studies show most patients experience 30–70% improvement in wrinkle depth and overall texture. Skin becomes smoother, firmer, and more luminous.

Because collagen regeneration is gradual, results develop naturally, avoiding the “overdone” look that can occur with some cosmetic procedures.

Lifestyle Habits to Maintain Results

Laser wrinkle treatments provide long-lasting benefits, but maintenance depends on healthy skin habits:

• Daily SPF: Ultraviolet exposure accelerates collagen loss.
• Moisturize consistently: Hydrated skin maintains elasticity.
• Avoid smoking: Nicotine breaks down skin proteins faster.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet: Antioxidants support collagen repair.
• Follow dermatologist-recommended skincare: Products with retinoids or peptides extend results.

Healthy habits complement laser therapy and slow future wrinkle formation.

The Role of Collagen in Skin Rejuvenation

Collagen acts as the scaffolding beneath your skin. As we age, production drops, leading to sagging and fine lines.

Lasers re-ignite collagen synthesis by creating microscopic heat zones that trigger controlled healing. This process thickens the dermis, smooths wrinkles, and restores firmness naturally.

Because the body’s healing response continues for months, many patients notice progressive improvements long after their final session.

When to Consider Professional Laser Wrinkle Treatment

You might consider professional laser therapy if:

• Over-the-counter creams no longer deliver noticeable results.
• You want smoother skin without surgery or injectables.
• You’re beginning to see deeper lines that makeup no longer conceal.

Consultation with a dermatologist ensures that laser therapy fits your skin type, goals, and comfort level.

Where to Find Expert Laser Care

Laser resurfacing and rejuvenation require both skill and precision. Board-certified dermatologists are trained to select the right wavelength, customize intensity, and monitor safety.

VitalSkin Dermatology and its affiliates offer modern CO2 and fractional laser treatments at multiple locations, including Bucktown, IL, Louisville, KY, Mattoon, IL, Millennium Park, IL,  Hinsdale, IL, Saint Charles, IL, Monroe, IL, New Albany, IN, Urbana, IL, and Jeffersontown, KY. Each clinic provides dermatologist-led care focused on personalized treatment plans, safety, and ongoing skin health.

If you’re exploring wrinkle reduction options, start with a professional consultation to learn what type of laser or light therapy best suits your needs.