Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin deserves expert care. Our board-certified dermatologists use gentle, advanced treatments designed specifically for sensitive or reactive skin, reducing redness, irritation, and discomfort while strengthening your skin barrier for lasting health and comfort.
Sensitive Skin Treatment Options
Skin sensitive to touch
Treatments focus on calming irritation and restoring comfort when skin feels reactive or tender to contact.
Redness and flushing
Targeted laser and intense pulsed light treatment for sensitive skin can help visibly reduce redness while supporting skin balance.
Dryness and dehydration
Hydration focused treatments improve moisture retention and support a healthier skin barrier for sensitive skin.
Uneven texture
Gentle exfoliation and resurfacing options help refine skin texture without aggravating sensitive skin.
Weakened skin barrier
Medical grade care strengthens the protective barrier, helping sensitive skin better tolerate daily stressors.
Dull or fatigued appearance
Carefully selected treatments enhance skin clarity and radiance while maintaining comfort for sensitive skin.
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Sensitive Skin Before and After
What is the Best Laser for Sensitive Skin?
Choosing the right laser treatment for sensitive skin requires careful consideration of skin type, underlying conditions, and treatment goals. At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, laser treatments for sensitive skin are selected and performed by board-certified dermatologists to prioritize safety, comfort, and skin barrier protection.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a versatile light-based treatment commonly used to improve redness, flushing, sun damage, and uneven tone, particularly in patients with sensitive skin. IPL delivers controlled pulses of light to target pigment and vascular irregularities while supporting collagen, elastic fiber, and fibroblast activity beneath the skin. Treatment parameters are carefully customized by our board-certified dermatologists to enhance skin clarity and overall tone while minimizing irritation.
ResurFX™
ResurFX is a non-ablative fractional laser designed to refine skin texture and address early signs of aging while preserving the skin’s surface. By creating precise thermal zones without aggressive injury, ResurFX is often well tolerated in sensitive skin types. This technology supports collagen, elastic fiber, and fibroblast stimulation to promote smoother, more even-looking skin with minimal downtime.
Clear + Brilliant®
Clear + Brilliant® is widely regarded as one of the gentlest fractional laser options available and is often recommended for patients with sensitive or reactive skin. This treatment works superficially to refine skin texture, improve tone, and enhance overall radiance while minimizing heat exposure. Downtime is minimal, and when performed appropriately, the risk of irritation or pigment disruption remains low.
Fraxel Re:store®
Fraxel Re:store is a non-ablative fractional laser designed to treat deeper skin concerns while leaving the skin’s surface intact. Because it targets only a fraction of the skin during each session, healing is typically faster, and irritation is reduced compared to more aggressive resurfacing lasers. Treatment settings can be adjusted for sensitive skin, making Fraxel Re:store® a reliable option for addressing acne scars, fine lines, and uneven texture.
PicoWay® and PicoSure®
Pico lasers such as PicoWay and PicoSure are often well-suited for sensitive skin because they rely primarily on a photo-mechanical effect rather than heat. This approach limits thermal stress on surrounding tissue and helps reduce prolonged redness or inflammation. These lasers are commonly used to treat pigmentation, melasma, acne scars, and overall skin clarity.
Vbeam® Pulsed Dye Laser
For patients with sensitive skin who experience redness, rosacea, or visible blood vessels, Vbeam is frequently considered the laser of choice. This pulsed dye laser targets vascular concerns while using advanced cooling technology to help protect the skin barrier. Treatment parameters are carefully controlled to reduce post-treatment sensitivity and support comfortable healing.
Take5™
The Take5 treatment is an exclusive experience available only at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, designed to deliver quick yet effective skin refreshment. It can be customized for sensitive skin using gentle techniques and calming ingredients to improve comfort and visible radiance.
Take10™
Take10 offers a more enhanced approach to skin renewal while remaining mindful of sensitive skin needs. This treatment is fully customizable, focusing on soothing hydration and skin nourishment for noticeable results with minimal irritation.
Aesthetic Treatments - Best Facial for Sensitive Skin
Aesthetic treatments for sensitive skin focus on improving comfort, hydration, and overall skin quality while protecting the skin barrier. At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, these procedures are carefully selected and adjusted to support delicate, reactive skin without unnecessary irritation.
Facials
A facial can be customized to calm, hydrate, and nourish sensitive skin while avoiding harsh techniques or irritating ingredients. The 3XFacial is fully customizable for sensitive skin, allowing gentle exfoliation, targeted hydration, and soothing ingredients to restore balance and enhance skin comfort.
HydraFacial
HydraFacial is great for sensitive skin because it combines controlled exfoliation with deep hydration and soothing serums. Skin is left refreshed, hydrated, and radiant without triggering irritation.
JetPeel
JetPeel is an excellent option for reactive or delicate skin, using pressurized air and liquid instead of abrasion. This gentle delivery system infuses nutrients while helping reduce redness and sensitivity.
Dermaplaning
When performed properly by experienced providers, dermaplaning can be safe for many sensitive skin types. It removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz without chemicals, supporting a smoother texture and improved product absorption.
SaltFacial
SaltFacial may benefit sensitive skin due to its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Treatments help calm redness while supporting gentle skin renewal and overall clarity.
These aesthetic treatments allow patients with sensitive skin to achieve visible improvement while maintaining comfort, balance, and skin health.
Hear From Our Happy Patients
5/5 STARS
I trust Farzaneh Momeni completely with my skin. She is by far the best clinical aesthetician I’ve ever known. My skin has improved dramatically since I began monthly facials with her. Her treatments are 100% results-driven so if this is what you seek, look no further. Also, the entire Team at West Dermatology are top-notch. They’re always friendly, professional, & helpful, & greet everyone with a smile. 10 Stars all around!
My new regular cosmetic dermatology office. Dr Zubair is amazing and really patient with me. He has helped me over the last year with keloid scar removal, jaw Botox, and full facial acne scar treatment (ultra clear). The office is clean and the nursing/medical assistant staff is accommodating on all levels. I will always recommend this office and Dr Zubair to friends and family.
Most professional and most impressive! The service from the physicians to office staff is superb!
I live in Orange County and drove all the way out to see Dr. Wu because a friend of mine referred him (she had amazing results from her face and neck procedure). Dr. Wu is truly an artist! He made me feel extremely comfortable during my procedure. I was anxious when I got there, but he (and his staff) have such great energy and are so very kind and gentle that you can't help but feel at ease! The office was immaculate and they adhered to covid rules (sanitizing, temp checks, masks). This is my go-to place from now on and Dr. Wu is my go-to guy! Can't wait to see my final results! Thank you Phyllis (pre-op) for being so wonderful and informative! You were so very helpful and kind! I'll definitely be back!
Leysin and the entire team at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology are fantastic. They are professional, caring and communicative. The laser treatment was comfortable, efficient and effective! I highly recommend this practice. I definitely will come back and recommend her and Cosmetic Laser Dermatology to my family and friends.
Dr. Goldman is amazing! I came here for my permanent eyeliner removal (which is not offered anywhere near me), and they are completely removed in just one session. They use a special contact lens to protect your eyes from the laser, and there are no damages to my eyelashes. The healing was also nice and smooth. They have everything you need. I live almost 3 hours away, but it was totally worth the trip. For anyone who is looking to remove their permanent makeup, this is the right place to go :)-
Dr. Butterwick is fantastic, all of her team as well. They make sure your experience is pleasant and painless as possible. My tattoo removal and my injectables look amazing. I highly recommend her for any skin treatment.
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology was recommended to me by my dermatologist. He recommended Dr. Monica Boen. I'm so glad I took his recommendation. Everyone here at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology was super nice and friendly. Very welcoming. I came here for hair removal treatment. I did 4 sessions with Dr. Boen. Dr. Boen made me feel so comfortable and at ease when I talked to her. She explained everything before she did my treatment. I loved that. She was really easy to talk to. I definitely will come back and recommend her and Cosmetic Laser Dermatology to my family and friends.
This office is awesome. My visit today was with Dr. Groff. His bed side manner is so fun and welcoming. He understood my concerns and recommended a treatment plan that I feel was reasonable. I love his staff! They take there time to make sure you understand the treatment and after care. Everyone in the office, from the front desk to the nurses in the back, are so friendly and beautiful. They are very prompt and I trust my care with CLD. I can't wait for my next visit. See you guys in a few weeks!
"Dr. Sabrina Fabi is genius! Her technique is unlike anyone, her eye is precise, and her kindness and caring manner comes from the depth of her soul. She's simply brilliant! It's no wonder people travel the country just to be treated by her."
I wish I could give them 10 stars! I had such an awesome experience for my first visit and I am referring everyone I know to this office. From the super friendly staff to the state of the art procedures, they are the cream of the crop.
“I came to participate in a research study. All of the Doctors and staff at C.L. Dermatology are very professional, warm and friendly. All our my needs were anticipated and the hospitality of this office is like a five star hotel.”
Why You’ll Love Us
At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, we understand that many patients with sensitive skin often scale back their skincare routines out of concern for dryness, flakiness, redness, itchiness, and breakouts. Instead of avoiding care altogether, our approach focuses on helping sensitive skin thrive through thoughtful, science driven solutions that prioritize comfort and long-term skin health.
Our team has been deeply involved in researching and even developing skincare products for patients of all ages with sensitive, delicate, dry skin, and skin irritation concerns. This foundation allows us to recommend treatments and routines with confidence, precision, and respect for your skin’s natural balance.
Personalized Care for Your Unique Skin Concerns
We work closely with you to create a customized routine that addresses your specific skin concerns, whether irritation, acne, or signs of aging, while ensuring your skin looks and feels healthy, youthful, clear, and comfortable.
Board-Certified Dermatology Expertise
All treatments are performed and overseen by board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience caring for sensitive and reactive skin types, ensuring every decision is rooted in clinical knowledge and safety.
Thoughtful and Conservative Treatment Philosophy
We take a measured, patient first approach, prioritizing gentle techniques and proven technologies that protect the skin barrier while delivering natural looking improvement.
Advanced Technology Used with Intention
With access to one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of laser, light, and energy based devices, treatments are carefully selected and customized to minimize irritation, inflammation, and unnecessary downtime.
Comprehensive Guidance Beyond the Treatment Room
From in-office care to at home routines, we provide clear, personalized guidance on cleansing, moisturizing, retinoid use, and sun protection, helping sensitive skin remain calm, resilient, and balanced.
A Trusted San Diego Destination
For decades, patients have trusted Cosmetic Laser Dermatology for consistent care, clinical excellence, and results that respect the integrity of sensitive skin.
What to Expect from Sensitive Skin Treatment
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology is proud to be San Diego’s #1 destination for Botox Cosmetic treatments for over 25 years. By choosing us, you can:
Comprehensive Consultation
Your care begins with a detailed evaluation to identify triggers, sensitivities, and goals before recommending any treatment.
Thoughtful Treatment Planning
All sensitive skin treatments are selected to support skin health while minimizing irritation and discomfort.
Minimal Downtime Options
Many treatments for sensitive skin are designed to fit easily into your schedule with little to no recovery time.
Ongoing Skin Care Guidance
You will receive expert recommendations for cleansing, moisturizing, exfoliating, and sun protection to maintain results.
Our Renowned Dermatologists
We are proud to share that Dr. Goldman, Dr. Butterwick, Dr. Groff, Dr. Fabi, & Dr. Boen have once again been recognized as Castle Connolly Top Doctors in 2026!
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology has been voted Best Cosmetic Dermatology Practice in San Diego Magazine’s 2026 “Best of San Diego” readers’ poll!
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Cosmetic Dermatologist, Best Cosmetic Surgeon, and Best Dermatologist for 4 consecutive years by the San Diego Reader Best Poll.
Dr. Mitchel Goldman was voted #1 Cosmetic Dermatologist in America by Newsweek
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Cosmetic Dermatologist and Best Cosmetic Surgeon for 9 consecutive years by the San Diego U-T Best Readers Poll.
Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, and Fabi made the top 8 in Newsweek’s Best Cosmetic Dermatologists in America for the last two years in a row
Voted in the top 10% of Realself Doctors by achieving high patient satisfaction and getting favorable feedback on Q&A
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Dermatologist for 10 consecutive years and Best Cosmetic Surgeon for 9 consecutive years by the La Jolla Light Best Readers Poll.
Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, Groff, Fabi, and Boen were named Castle Connolly Top Doctors in 2025, making us one of the Top 3 Practices in California with the most Castle Connolly Top Doctors in Dermatology.
Dr. Boen has been recognized as a Top Doctor in 2023 and 2024 by San Diego County Medical Society.
Dr. Butterwick, is a distinguished facial cosmetic surgeon certified by the American Board of Facial
Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS).
In 2026, Mitchel P. Goldman, MD, FAAD, received the Richard E. Fitzpatrick, MD Award from Masters of Aesthetics in recognition of his contributions to cosmetic dermatology and laser medicine. The honor reflects his longstanding leadership in research, physician education, and advancing aesthetic treatment.
Sabrina Fabi, MD has been named a finalist for Pioneer of the Year – Healthcare with San Diego Magazine’s Celebrating Women 2026
Sensitive Skin FAQ
The best facial for sensitive skin is one that focuses on hydration, barrier support, and calming inflammation without harsh exfoliation. Treatments such as gentle customized facials, HydraFacial, and JetPeel are commonly recommended because they avoid aggressive techniques. These facials use soothing ingredients and controlled delivery methods to improve skin comfort and appearance. A board-certified dermatologist can determine which facial is most appropriate based on your skin sensitivity and underlying concerns.
Sensitive skin to touch often indicates a compromised skin barrier or underlying inflammation. This can be caused by over exfoliation, environmental exposure, harsh skin care products, or certain skin conditions such as rosacea. Professional evaluation helps identify triggers and guide treatment options that restore balance and reduce discomfort. Proper moisturizing and sun protection are also essential for improving skin tolerance.
Laser hair removal can be safe for sensitive skin when performed by experienced dermatologists using appropriate technology and settings. Treatment parameters are carefully adjusted to minimize heat exposure and reduce irritation. A consultation is essential to evaluate skin type, sensitivity, and hair characteristics before treatment. When properly performed, laser hair removal offers effective results with a low risk of adverse reactions.
The best laser for sensitive skin depends on the specific concern being treated, such as redness, pigmentation, or texture. Intense Pulsed Light and gentle non ablative and picosecond lasers are often preferred because they limit thermal injury and support faster recovery. Devices such as Stellar M22 Intense Pulsed Light, Clear + Brilliant, PicoWay, PicoSure, and Vbeam are commonly used for sensitive skin when clinically appropriate. Your board-certified dermatologist will select the safest option based on your skin type and goals.
Laser treatment for sensitive skin must prioritize controlled energy delivery and skin barrier protection.Intense Pulsed Light, non ablative fractional lasers and vascular or picosecond lasers are often chosen because they treat targeted concerns while leaving surrounding skin largely intact. Treatment settings are customized to reduce redness, inflammation, and downtime. Proper technique and post treatment care are key to achieving safe and effective outcomes.
CO2 laser treatments are more aggressive and are not typically the first choice for patients with sensitive skin. However, in select cases, CO2 laser may be used cautiously under the supervision of a board-certified dermatologist. Lower energy settings and careful patient selection are essential to reduce the risk of irritation or prolonged recovery. A comprehensive consultation is required to determine whether a CO2 laser is appropriate for sensitive skin.
Yes, professionally guided aesthetic treatments can help improve sensitive skin over time by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. Treatments such as facials for sensitive skin, HydraFacial, and JetPeel support hydration and skin resilience. When combined with proper home care and sun protection, these treatments help maintain comfort and improve overall skin health. Consistency and board-certified dermatologist oversight are important for long term success.
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