
The Skinny
Average Recovery
18 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$1200 - $3000
The Specifics
What is Pearl laser?
Pearl® laser by Cutera is an ablative fractional laser designed to create a smooth, pearl-like skin texture. This aggressive form of laser resurfacing delivers intense heat to the treatment area to vaporize skin cells and stimulate a collagen production response. Pearl® laser is most commonly used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities, acne scarring, and poor skin texture.What cosmetic concerns does a Pearl laser procedure treat?
1. Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Collagen growth reduces signs of early aging. 2. Facial Skin Laxity: Collagen stimulation plumps the skin. 3. Uneven Skin Tone: Hyperpigmented skin cells are broken down and fresh skin cells are revealed. 4. Uneven Skin Texture: Deposits of dead and damaged cells are removed to smooth skin texture. 5. Acne Scars: Ablative energy breaks down scar tissue to allow for healthier cell growth.Who is the ideal candidate for a Pearl® laser procedure?
The ideal candidate for Pearl® laser has mild to moderate skin damage like sun spots, brown spots, fine lines, wrinkles, or acne scars. Pearl® laser is not recommended for individuals with dark skin tones due to the high risk of hypopigmentation.What is the average recovery associated with a Pearl Laser procedure?
Most patients undergo one to two weeks of downtime following a Pearl™ laser procedure. Reddened and raw skin, and some swelling are common following ablative laser resurfacing treatments like Pearl® laser. Patients can expect skin discoloration for several weeks. Diligent skin care and limited sun exposure with appropriate UV protection can reduce downtime.What are the potential side effects of a Pearl laser procedure?
Potential side effects following a Pearl® laser treatment include burns or skin damage, scarring, changes in pigmentation such as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, and bacterial skin infections.What can someone expect from the results of a Pearl laser procedure?
The results of a Pearl® laser are not able to be seen following the therapy. As skin rejuvenates and regrows, the results will develop over a few weeks and continue to evolve for up to three to six months. Limiting sun exposure and wearing sunscreen lessens the risk of irregular skin pigmentation. The final results of a Pearl laser will be significant, and also subject to the effects of aging and sun damage over time.What is the average cost of a Pearl laser procedure?
A Pearl® laser by Cutera procedure can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000. The actual cost of the treatment is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.Pros
- Smooths Skin
- Tightens Skin
- Lasting Results
- Improve Skin Quality
- Improve Skin Texture
- Effective
- Improved Recovery Time
Cons
- Scarring
- Pigmentation Changes
- Exacerbate Skin Disorders
- More Invasive
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
The Pearl Laser is an ablative fractional laser that erases signs of aging my stimulating collagen production. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after treatment with a Pearl Laser.
Before Treatment
- A retinol cream or hydrocortisone pretreatment may be prescribed
- Avoid sun exposure
- Do not use tanning products
- Decrease alcohol consumption
- Discontinue use of any harsh skincare products, peels, and aggressive scrubs
- An antiviral medication may be prescribed
- Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 hours prior
During Treatment
- Topical or local anesthetic
- Laser is applied to the treatment area, targeting uneven skin texture, irregular pigmentation, fine lines, and other skin imperfections
- Once treated, a serum or ointment will be applied
- Bandage may be applied to the skin
Immediately After Treatment
- Discomfort
- Skin will feel raw and swollen
- Use OTC medications and cool compresses to ease discomfort
Result Notes
- Once healed, results are dramatic
- Wrinkles and signs of aging will reappear with time
The Takeaway
A Pearl® laser treatment improves skin tone, skin texture, and facial skin aesthetic. Vaporizing the outer skin layer and stimulating new collagen growth, Pearl® laser restores, refreshes, and rejuvenates the skin.





