Laser Skin Rejuvenation in Mill Valley, CA

Your plan depends on your goals (tone, texture, scars, laxity) and your skin’s sensitivities; we’ll recommend the best-fit option(s).

Yes—some technologies may be layered or sequenced for more comprehensive results.

Common goals include correcting tone, refining texture, collagen support, and overall skin renewal.

Belle Marin’s approach includes selecting appropriate technologies and settings for safe, effective treatment across a range of skin types.

Some treatments show results quickly, while others work best in a series—your plan is customized.

BBL targets pigmentation/redness and supports collagen; HALO is a hybrid fractional laser designed to improve texture, fine lines, pores, and sun spots.

Preparation depends on the device being used, but most patients are advised to stay out of direct sunlight and avoid self-tanning products for at least two weeks beforehand. You may also need to pause retinoids, exfoliating acids, or certain active skincare ingredients several days prior. Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin on the day of your appointment.

Downtime varies by technology and intensity. Light-based therapies like BBL often involve minimal downtime, with mild redness that resolves within hours to a day. More intensive resurfacing, such as HALO or CO2-based platforms, may involve several days of redness, swelling, or a bronzed appearance. 

Your provider will share customized instructions on when you can resume exercise, makeup, and social activities.

Peeling depends on the type of laser or energy treatment performed. Resurfacing treatments targeting the outer layers of the skin typically cause light to moderate flaking or peeling over several days as damaged cells shed and fresh skin emerges. Other options, such as RF microneedling, may cause minimal visible peeling.

Keep in mind that even when peeling occurs, it is typically manageable with proper skincare and hydration.

Some treatments, such as BBL, can produce noticeable improvements in tone and brightness within a week. Resurfacing and collagen-stimulating procedures often deliver gradual improvements over several weeks as new collagen forms. Initial glow may appear early, but continued refinement in texture and firmness develops over time. Results build progressively, especially when treatments are layered or performed sequentially. Your provider will outline a realistic timeline based on your goals and the selected technology.

Most patients report that laser and energy-based services are tolerable rather than painful. Sensations vary by device and treatment depth but may feel like warmth, snapping, or mild prickling.

Numbing cream is often applied prior to resurfacing or microneedling to provide comfort. Advanced devices are designed with cooling mechanisms or controlled energy delivery to improve the overall experience. Your provider will prioritize comfort and adjust settings as needed throughout your session.

Certain laser and light-based treatments can reduce acne-related inflammation, target bacteria, and improve the appearance of acne scars. However, not all lasers are appropriate for active breakouts. In some cases, acne should be stabilized before proceeding with resurfacing. Light therapies, such as BBL, may help reduce redness, whereas RF microneedling can improve post-acne scarring over time. A personalized evaluation determines which approach best addresses both active acne and long-term skin clarity.

Most providers recommend postponing elective laser resurfacing during pregnancy. While many laser devices act locally on the skin, hormonal changes can affect pigmentation and healing, increasing the risk of unwanted side effects. During breastfeeding, some non-ablative treatments may be considered on a case-by-case basis, but caution is still advised. Your provider will review your history and timing to determine the safest plan for protecting both you and your baby.