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What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing in Toronto & Markham removes or heats a controlled depth of skin so smoother skin heals back. Deeper treatment does more for scars and texture, but recovery takes longer. At our Markham clinic, Dr. Dan Xu and our team set the depth for your skin type, because dark marks are the main risk on darker skin.
Lighter treatment gets you back to work sooner, but it does less per session. No setting gives you both a strong result and a short recovery. You may also see this called laser resurfacing, a laser face treatment or a skin resurfacing laser.
This trade-off matters more for Fitzpatrick III–V skin, which most of our patients have. Fitzpatrick is a scale of skin types, from I (very fair) to VI (very dark). The heat builds new collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm. The same heat can also cause dark marks, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Key points
- What it doesA controlled injury at a chosen depth. Your skin’s healing does the work
- Devices hereFractional CO2 (10,600 nm), erbium or Er:YAG (2,940 nm), Clear Glow or Nd:YAG (1,064 nm)
- What we adjustDepth and density (how much skin each pass treats), set for you
- DowntimeFrom 0–3 days to about two weeks, depending on the laser and the depth
- CourseOne deep session or a series of lighter ones, depending on the laser
Fractional or full-field
Fractional treatment leaves untreated skin between tiny treated columns, so healing is faster. Full-field treatment covers the whole surface. It does more in one pass, but recovery takes much longer. We usually use fractional treatment, especially on darker skin. We keep full-field for cases that justify the longer recovery.
Ablative vs non-ablative laser resurfacing: what is the difference?
Ablative lasers remove very thin layers of skin, while non-ablative lasers heat the skin without removing the surface.
| What to compare | Ablative | Non-ablative |
|---|---|---|
| Lasers at our clinic | Fractional CO2 and erbium | Clear Glow FRAC3 |
| Results | Can show after one treatment | You often need a series of treatments |
| Downtime | Longer | Shorter, with no open wound |
| Often suits | Deeper acne scars | Early texture change and uneven tone |
Each is a laser resurfacing treatment, but they suit different problems.
Types of fractional laser: CO2, erbium and Clear Glow
If you are comparing fractional laser in Toronto, we offer CO2, erbium and Clear Glow. CO2 and erbium remove tiny columns of skin. Clear Glow heats the skin without removing it. Each works at its own wavelength, measured in nanometres (nm).
Fractional CO2 — Lutronic eCO2 Plus, 10,600 nm
CO2 goes the deepest of the three. It is often used for sunken (atrophic) acne scars and long-standing rough texture. Water in the skin absorbs the energy and vaporizes a tiny column of skin. The skin around it rebuilds as it heals. Depth and density are both adjustable, which helps when treating darker skin. Read more about CO2 laser resurfacing in Toronto.
Fractional CO2 — CO2RE
This is a second CO2 laser with several fractional modes. We use it when your plan needs a different mix of skin removal and heating. Its Canadian device licence ended in December 2025, so it is no longer licensed for sale or import in Canada; we continue to treat with the unit already in the clinic and say so here rather than display a licence badge.
Erbium (Er:YAG) — Fotona, 2,940 nm
Water in the skin absorbs erbium light more strongly than CO2 light. So erbium removes skin with less heat spreading to the sides. This helps when your main concern is surface texture or pores. Recovery is usually shorter, with less inflammation. Read more about fractional erbium laser in Toronto.
Clear Glow FRAC3 (Nd:YAG) — Fotona, 1,064 nm
This laser is non-ablative. It passes through the surface and heats deeper skin without removing any, so there is no open wound and little visible downtime. According to Fotona, FRAC3 is a non-ablative fractional Nd:YAG mode. It does less per session than ablative lasers, so you need a series. It is often combined with erbium in the same visit. To see how these lasers work together, read about Fotona multi-layer protocols.
Read more about Clear Glow FRAC3.
Why combining lasers matters more than the brand
A single wavelength treats one layer. Most people have more than one problem. You may have deep scars and surface pigment, or loose skin and rough texture. At your consultation, ask which skin layers will be treated and in what order. This matters more than the machine’s name.
Which laser fits your skin concern?
Deep acne scars usually point to CO2, surface texture and pores to erbium, and mild texture or uneven tone to Clear Glow.
What this laser skin treatment can help
- Sunken (atrophic) acne scarsLaser resurfacing for acne scars often treats boxcar (wide, box-shaped) and rolling (wavy) scars. Ice-pick (narrow, deep) scars often need a different technique first
- Skin textureRough or uneven skin across an area, not just one spot
- Enlarged poresPores look better as the skin around them improves. Pore size does not change permanently
- Fine linesLines around the mouth and eyes, when the cause is skin quality and not lost volume
- Sun damageLaser skin rejuvenation for rough skin and uneven tone from years of sun
- Surgical and injury scarsAssessed one by one, because the age of the scar changes what is possible
Laser resurfacing is not the right tool for single dark spots, redness from blood vessels or lost volume. These have their own treatments.
| Your main concern | Where assessment usually starts | Typical downtime |
|---|---|---|
| Deep, sunken acne scars | Fractional CO2, with the depth set for your skin type | About 7–14 days |
| Surface texture and pores | Fractional erbium at a lighter density | A few days of redness and light peeling |
| Texture plus early loose skin | A multi-layer plan that combines Nd:YAG and erbium | 1–2 days |
| Mild texture or uneven tone, with little time off | A Clear Glow series | 0–3 days |
| Scars, but you cannot take much downtime | RF microneedling, which uses fine needles and heat to reach the deeper skin layer. The risks are different | About 1–3 days |
| Mainly brown patches or spots | Pigmentation lasers, not resurfacing. They target the pigment directly and need less recovery | Varies |
| Loose skin rather than rough texture | Radiofrequency tightening or ultrasound lifting, which act on layers resurfacing does not reach | Varies |
| Dullness and congestion only | Chemical peel or HydraFacial, with no laser needed | None to minimal |
| Active acne | Treat your acne first, because new scars can still form during treatment | Resurfacing comes later |
Downtime figures are a general guide, not a promise. The same setting can behave differently on different skin.
Who is a good candidate for laser resurfacing?
You may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing if your scars or texture are stable, your acne is controlled and you can avoid the sun.
Usually suitable
- Adults with rough texture or sunken scars that have been stable for months
- People who can protect their skin from sun while it heals
- People whose acne is under control, because laser resurfacing is not suitable for active, inflamed acne in the treatment area
- Fitzpatrick III–V skin, at settings chosen for that skin, after we discuss the risk of dark marks
Who should wait or avoid it
- Recent isotretinoin (Accutane, an acne medicine). Dr. Xu decides how long you need to wait, based on the depth planned
- Active infection in the area, including cold sores. This is treated or prevented first
- A history of keloid or hypertrophic (thick, raised) scars
- Recent sun exposure or tanning, including self-tanner
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Vitiligo or psoriasis, because skin injury can trigger new patches
- Past radiation, burns or autoimmune skin damage in the area, because these can slow healing
- Medicines that make your skin sensitive to sun, unless stopped as advised
- Very dark skin, which the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery says is usually not a good fit
- Poorly controlled diabetes, or other conditions or medicines that slow wound healing
- If you cannot take the downtime your plan needs, wait. Do not book a deep treatment just before an event
On Fitzpatrick III–V skin, a darker skin type is a reason to change the settings and the plan before treatment. It is not by itself a reason to decline, and we do not treat it as if it were lighter skin. Dr. Xu tells you if a laser does not suit your skin.
How many laser resurfacing sessions do you need, and how long do results last?
Erbium and Clear Glow plans usually take 3–5 sessions, and CO2 may take one deep session or a short series. Results can last for years, but they are not permanent.
- Erbium and Clear Glow FRAC33–5 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart. Low-intensity maintenance can follow every 3–6 months
- Fractional CO2One deep session or a short series of lighter ones, 4–8 weeks apart, and longer after deeper treatment
- When you see resultsSome people see a change after healing, and it can keep improving for up to a year. New collagen builds for months, so judge your result at 3–6 months, not at 3 weeks
- How long results lastResults can last for many years, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), but your skin keeps aging. CO2 results can be maintained for one to several years, depending on your skin type, age, sun exposure and skincare
Does laser resurfacing hurt, and how long is the downtime?
CO2 and erbium can be uncomfortable, so numbing cream goes on first. Downtime runs from 0–3 days for Clear Glow to about two weeks for CO2.
| Laser | How it feels | Numbing | Typical downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO2 | A warm, prickling feeling. Afterward, your skin may feel like a moderate sunburn for 24–48 hours | Cream for about 30–45 minutes first | 7–14 days |
| Erbium | Some discomfort, which the cream helps reduce | Cream first | A few days of redness and light peeling. Deeper sessions can take 1–2 weeks to settle |
| Clear Glow FRAC3 | Minimal discomfort from the laser pulses | Usually not needed | 0–3 days |
Laser resurfacing recovery depends on the laser and the depth. Deeper settings mean more redness, swelling and flaking, for longer. Your new skin can stay red or pink for up to several months, according to ASPS.
What are the risks and downsides of laser resurfacing?
The main downsides of laser resurfacing are healing time, the risk of dark marks and results that are not permanent. Resurfacing creates a controlled wound, so we discuss these risks with you before you consent.
Side effects to expect after treatment
- Redness, swelling and heat for several days, longer with deeper settings
- Flaking or peeling as the top layer of skin renews
- Temporary sensitivity. Your skin may react to products it used to tolerate
Risks we discuss before you consent
- Dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) — the main risk on Asian and other Fitzpatrick III–V skin. They are usually temporary but can take months to fade. This is why we take care with settings and sun protection.
- Melasma (brown patches) getting worse — a 2017 review of fractional lasers in Asian patients names this as a main complication, along with dark marks. Tell Dr. Xu if you have melasma.
- Redness that lasts longer — beyond the expected time, and more likely after deeper treatment.
- Infection, including cold sores coming back. If your history shows this risk, you may get antiviral medicine to prevent it.
- Scarring — less common, and more likely with deep settings, poor aftercare or a history of abnormal scarring.
- Loss of skin colour (hypopigmentation) — this can last and can be hard to treat. It is rare, and it is a reason we do not go deeper than you need.
This page is general information about how laser resurfacing is assessed and performed at this clinic. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation. Results vary with your skin type, the condition treated and how well you follow aftercare.
What should you do before and after laser resurfacing?
Before treatment, avoid sun and stop some skin products; afterward, use gentle skincare and daily sunscreen, and do not pick at your skin.
Before your session
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning and self-tanner.
- Stop retinoids and exfoliating products 1 week before, unless Dr. Xu advises otherwise.
- Come without makeup if you can.
- Bring a list of your skin products, such as retinoids, acids and prescription creams, and any medicines you take by mouth.
- If you have had laser treatment before, tell us the settings if you know them.
- Dr. Xu tells you if you need skin-preparing products first, called a priming regimen.
During your session
- You wear protective eyewear.
- Numbing cream goes on first, except for Clear Glow, which usually needs none.
- The treatment itself usually takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the area.
After your session
- Do not scratch or pick at the treated area.
- After CO2, apply the healing ointment you are given.
- Do not wear makeup for 24–48 hours or wash your face with hot water.
- Use gentle skincare, keep your skin hydrated, and do not exfoliate in the first days.
- Avoid heat in the first week.
- Dr. Xu tells you when to restart retinoids and other active products.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) every day while you heal, because skipping it can raise your risk of dark marks. According to ASPS, your skin can stay extra sensitive to sunlight for up to a year. Dr. Xu tells you how long to keep up strict sun protection.
Contact the clinic promptly
Call us if you develop spreading redness, increasing pain after the first few days, yellow crusting or discharge, fever, or blistering you did not expect. These problems are treated faster when reported early. For chest pain, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling affecting your airway, call 911 rather than the clinic.
How much does laser resurfacing cost?
A full-face session in Toronto costs about $1,200–$2,500.Prices are for reference only and reflect general Toronto pricing. Please contact us for your exact price. Our guide to laser resurfacing cost in Toronto explains each factor. Your laser skin resurfacing price depends on the area treated, the depth and density, and how many sessions your plan needs. One deep session and several lighter sessions can cost about the same in total. So compare the full plan, not only the price per session.
You get a written estimate for the whole course after your assessment, before anything begins. If you need a course, we state the number of sessions up front.
Accepted payment methods
- VISA / Mastercard / Amex / Debit / E-transfer
- Financing available via Affirm / PayBright (select treatment packages)
- OHIP: Cosmetic treatments are not covered by insurance
Why choose ID Cosmetic Clinic for laser resurfacing?
Our laser skin resurfacing clinic checks your skin type first, and tells you your downtime and session count before you start.
We check your skin type first
We record your Fitzpatrick skin type, then choose the settings for it. Using settings meant for lighter skin on darker skin can cause harm, and careful settings can help avoid this.
You know your downtime before you start
We tell you your recovery time as a number at your consultation. If that downtime does not work for you, we change the plan and tell you what result to expect.
A test spot when needed
If your skin is higher risk or your history is uncertain, we treat a test spot and review it before you book a full session.
Photos taken under the same conditions
We compare standard photos, not memory. We check them when your skin has had time to change.
A clear plan and clear advice
You leave your assessment with a stated depth, a session count and a clear downtime estimate. If the right answer is a different treatment, or none, we will tell you.
Dr. Dan Xu, M.D., CCFP
Settings chosen by a physician, for your skin
Laser resurfacing at ID Cosmetic Clinic is assessed by Dr. Dan Xu, a licensed physician certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Dr. Dan Xu and our team perform each treatment. Depth, density and wavelength are set for you after skin typing, not read off a treatment menu. Consultations are available in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Much of our laser work is on Fitzpatrick III–V skin. On this skin, settings chosen before treatment strongly affect your risk of dark marks. Dr. Xu practises at a single location in Markham. Our Markham clinic welcomes patients from across the Greater Toronto Area. Free parking is on site.
“Timeless Asian Beauty”
Timeless Asian Beauty, written by Dr. Dan Xu, is a guide to aesthetics for Asian faces. It draws on clinical experience in China, Korea and Canada.
Common questions about laser skin resurfacing
How much does laser resurfacing cost in Toronto?
A full-face session in Toronto costs about $1,200–$2,500.Prices are for reference only and reflect general Toronto pricing. Please contact us for your exact price. Your price depends on the laser, the depth, the area and the number of sessions.
Is laser skin resurfacing worth it?
It can be worth it if scars, rough texture or fine lines bother you and you can take the recovery time. A 2025 review of seven studies found that acne scars most often improved by 30% to 70% after fractional CO2. Results vary, and dark marks are a real risk on Asian skin.
What is the downside of laser resurfacing?
The main downsides are healing time, the risk of dark marks and results that are not permanent. Deeper lasers can take one to two weeks to settle. On Asian and darker skin, dark marks can take months to fade. Infection and scarring are less common, and loss of skin colour is rare.
How long will laser resurfacing last?
Results can last for years, but they are not permanent because your skin keeps aging. CO2 results can be maintained for one to several years. Lighter plans such as Clear Glow can use low-intensity maintenance every 3–6 months.
What is the difference between CO2 and erbium laser?
CO2 usually works deeper and takes longer to heal, while erbium removes thinner layers with less heat. Erbium often suits surface texture and pores. CO2 is often used for deep acne scars. Dr. Xu recommends one after assessing your skin.
How long does laser resurfacing take to heal?
Healing takes from a few days to about two weeks, depending on the laser and the depth. Clear Glow has 0–3 days of downtime. Erbium ranges from a few days to 1–2 weeks. For CO2, plan for 7–14 days. Pink skin can last longer.
Does laser resurfacing hurt?
It can be uncomfortable with CO2 and erbium, so numbing cream goes on first. Afterward, CO2 can feel like a moderate sunburn for 24–48 hours. Clear Glow usually needs no numbing cream and causes only minimal discomfort.
Is laser resurfacing safe for Asian or darker skin?
Laser resurfacing can be used on many Asian and darker skin types, but the risk of dark marks is higher. To lower the risk, we record your skin type, use lower energy settings and may do a test spot first. You also need daily sun protection while you heal.
How many sessions of laser resurfacing do you need?
Erbium and Clear Glow plans usually take 3–5 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart. CO2 may be one deep session or a short series of lighter ones. Dr. Xu states your session count before you start.
Does laser resurfacing work for acne scars?
Yes, fractional laser resurfacing can improve many acne scars, though results vary between people. Ice-pick scars often need a different technique first. Your acne should be under control and your scars stable for months before you start.
What areas can laser resurfacing treat?
The face is the most common area, including lines around the mouth and eyes. Fractional CO2 can also treat the neck and single scars. Dr. Xu tells you which areas suit your skin and your plan.
Can men have laser resurfacing?
Yes, men can have laser resurfacing for acne scars, rough texture and sun damage. The same checks apply, including your skin type and how your skin heals. Dr. Xu sets the depth for your skin.
Where can I get laser skin resurfacing near me?
You can get laser skin resurfacing at our Markham clinic, at 30 Gibson Dr, Units 113-117. Dr. Dan Xu and our team perform each treatment there.
Real Clients · Google Reviews
What Our Clients Say
Vivian Okoth
0 reviews
Dr. Xu and the staff here are fantastic. I’ve been coming here for years and always leave satisfied! The clinic has a relaxed, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere—I always look forward to my visits.
Mary Jane
1 reviews
I am so grateful to the friend who recommended this place to me. Dr. Xu is amazing—she is the only doctor I’ll see from now on! Everyone on the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
Millicent Akisa
1 reviews
She is truly outstanding! She is both friendly and professional, highly knowledgeable, and has a very warm and gentle manner. She listens carefully to your needs and takes the time to explain all the options to you.
Chen cheng
15 reviews
Vivian is extremely professional. Of all the times I've been here, her technique and service are the best. She finished my hyaluronic acid injection very quickly, with minimal pain. She's also beautiful and has a great p…
Emmaculate Matswa
1 reviews
I'm so glad I came here. Dr. Xu is incredibly knowledgeable, and every piece of advice she gave was meticulous and thoughtful. I really enjoyed talking to her about skincare. Everyone here is so warm and friendly .
Sally Yang
2 reviews
Ling was absolutely amazing! She is so friendly, kind, and welcoming. She made the whole experience so enjoyable and comfortable. Truly appreciate her warm personality and excellent service. Highly recommend!
Zara F. Bell
2 reviews
Absolutely amazing clinic. I was treated with the upmost care and respect. Felt like I've know them my whole life. The whole crew is amazing and so sweet! The service was impeccable by Dr. Dan Xu, she is literally the be…
Caroline Fan
8 reviews
I had a really pleasant visit at ID cosmetics today with Ling. I had my pico laser appointment today. Ling treated me with such kindness and care. She was really attentive prepping me for my treatment and checking in on…
Vivian Okoth
0 reviews
Dr. Xu and the staff here are fantastic. I’ve been coming here for years and always leave satisfied! The clinic has a relaxed, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere—I always look forward to my visits.
Mary Jane
1 reviews
I am so grateful to the friend who recommended this place to me. Dr. Xu is amazing—she is the only doctor I’ll see from now on! Everyone on the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
Millicent Akisa
1 reviews
She is truly outstanding! She is both friendly and professional, highly knowledgeable, and has a very warm and gentle manner. She listens carefully to your needs and takes the time to explain all the options to you.
Chen cheng
15 reviews
Vivian is extremely professional. Of all the times I've been here, her technique and service are the best. She finished my hyaluronic acid injection very quickly, with minimal pain. She's also beautiful and has a great p…
Emmaculate Matswa
1 reviews
I'm so glad I came here. Dr. Xu is incredibly knowledgeable, and every piece of advice she gave was meticulous and thoughtful. I really enjoyed talking to her about skincare. Everyone here is so warm and friendly .
Sally Yang
2 reviews
Ling was absolutely amazing! She is so friendly, kind, and welcoming. She made the whole experience so enjoyable and comfortable. Truly appreciate her warm personality and excellent service. Highly recommend!
Zara F. Bell
2 reviews
Absolutely amazing clinic. I was treated with the upmost care and respect. Felt like I've know them my whole life. The whole crew is amazing and so sweet! The service was impeccable by Dr. Dan Xu, she is literally the be…
Caroline Fan
8 reviews
I had a really pleasant visit at ID cosmetics today with Ling. I had my pico laser appointment today. Ling treated me with such kindness and care. She was really attentive prepping me for my treatment and checking in on…
Grace
Local Guide · 13 reviews
I got a treatment done by Ling today and she was super friendly and helpful. She made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire process from the beginning til the end and I’d like to get it done by her again next ti…
Yvonne H
Local Guide · 54 reviews
Ling was so kind and super precise. I loved her recommendations—felt like she just knew what I needed! Thank you!
Dou Xu
2 reviews
Ling is just amazing—so gentle and professional. She really knows her stuff! I felt super cared for. The whole experience? Honestly, so relaxing.
Yan Sun
3 reviews
Dr. Dan Xu is seriously amazing—so skilled and patient! Felt super at ease the entire time. The results? Wow, just wow.
Olivia W
3 reviews
Entrusting my face to Dr. Xu and her team is reassuring, and everyone's service attitude is super nice. The clinic environment is clean and elegant, and Dr. Xu is enthusiastic and professional. I have always trusted her…
Hana Yu
9 reviews
I have been here since 3 years ago, Dr.Xu is very professional and all the staff are very nice and patient. I highly recommend this place!
xiaojie chen
7 reviews
Susie has an incredibly caring attitude, and all of her suggestions were truly helpful. I really appreciated her support!
Jackie Tse
Local Guide · 18 reviews
Dr Xu is very friendly and professional. Appointment was made quickly and the consultants provided professional and helpful advice. After the procedure, the consultant provided advice on after care and treatment plans. H…
Grace
Local Guide · 13 reviews
I got a treatment done by Ling today and she was super friendly and helpful. She made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire process from the beginning til the end and I’d like to get it done by her again next ti…
Yvonne H
Local Guide · 54 reviews
Ling was so kind and super precise. I loved her recommendations—felt like she just knew what I needed! Thank you!
Dou Xu
2 reviews
Ling is just amazing—so gentle and professional. She really knows her stuff! I felt super cared for. The whole experience? Honestly, so relaxing.
Yan Sun
3 reviews
Dr. Dan Xu is seriously amazing—so skilled and patient! Felt super at ease the entire time. The results? Wow, just wow.
Olivia W
3 reviews
Entrusting my face to Dr. Xu and her team is reassuring, and everyone's service attitude is super nice. The clinic environment is clean and elegant, and Dr. Xu is enthusiastic and professional. I have always trusted her…
Hana Yu
9 reviews
I have been here since 3 years ago, Dr.Xu is very professional and all the staff are very nice and patient. I highly recommend this place!
xiaojie chen
7 reviews
Susie has an incredibly caring attitude, and all of her suggestions were truly helpful. I really appreciated her support!
Jackie Tse
Local Guide · 18 reviews
Dr Xu is very friendly and professional. Appointment was made quickly and the consultants provided professional and helpful advice. After the procedure, the consultant provided advice on after care and treatment plans. H…
Ready to start your treatment journey?
Book a free 30-minute consultation with Dr. Dan Xu (M.D., CCFP). Dr. Xu will conduct a professional assessment and design a treatment plan tailored to you — no upsell, no pressure, just answers to the questions you truly want to know.
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