Re-Epithelialization of the Skin Following CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Wound healing after CO(2) laser resurfacing of the face involved rapid re-epithelialization to protect underlying skin structures. The majority of regenerating epidermal cells originated from hair follicles, with their movement tracked using immunofluorescence for keratin 17. The use of occlusive dressings immediately post-procedure enhanced cell migration, with re-epithelialization beginning by 48 hours in occluded skin. In contrast, untreated skin formed an eschar and showed no keratinocyte migration at 48 hours, indicating delayed healing.