What is CO2 fractional laser skin resurfacing? How does it work?

It is a method of precise and controlled damage of skin utilizing a laser light beam, which is 1/10th the diameter of a hair follicle.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) beams vaporize microscopic columns of tissue deep in the skin, penetrating to the deeper levels of the skin to stimulate production of younger smoother skin.

The newest ablative lasers use a fractionated light beam that preserves columns of normal skin which aids in healing.

What are the uses of laser resurfacing treatment ?

It can improve facial imperfections such as:

Skin pigmentation
Tightens skin
Dull skin
Sun damaged skin
Fine lines and wrinkles
All types of scars:
- Acne scars
- Traumatic scars
- Surgical scars
- Stretch marks
Brown spots
Moles
Warts
Under eyes rejuvenation

Advantage of CO2 laser resurfacing over other resurfacing procedures?

Additional benefit of CO2 laser for skin resurfacing is facial skin tightening through heating and stimulation of dermal collagen.

How long does a treatment take?

Full face LASER resurfacing takes about 30 minutes.

A topical numbing cream is applied on the face for 1 hour before the procedure. The total time in the clinic is about 1.5 hours.

How many treatments are needed and how long will benefits last?

Treatment schedule and duration of benefit depends on the condition being treated and its severity.

Treatments are done 3-6 weeks apart , depending on your skin type and condition.

What is the downtime? How long will it take to heal?

Healing takes about one week post-treatment.
Patients can go back to work the next day but need to avoid sun exposure.
After one week, patients can wear makeup.
Your skin will be pink for several months after your laser resurfacing treatment and very susceptible to sun damage, so you will have to protect it with a good sunscreen.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients tolerate the procedure very well after a one hour application of topical anaesthetic cream. It feels a little warm and prickly towards the end of the procedure.

At what age is laser resurfacing performed?

Laser resurfacing can be done at almost any age on people with skin damage from aging, sun exposure and scars

What should I expect post-treatment?

Slight Discomfort or pain
Bruising
Swelling
Redness

What is the aftercare following laser resurfacing?

Excessive and direct sun exposure should be avoided.

Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40+

Detailed information regarding the procedure and post-procedure care will be given after consultation.

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing