What is Ablative Fractionated CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Fractionated CO2 laser skin resurfacing is an advanced skin treatment that uses a laser to remove the outer layers
of skin while stimulating collagen production deep within the dermis. The “ablative” aspect refers to the removal of
the top layers of skin in a controlled manner to treat deeper imperfections such as wrinkles, sun damage, and
scars.
Why Choose CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
- Improves Skin Texture & Tone: Targets sun damage, age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, and scars, leaving the skin smoother and more even.
- Stimulates Collagen Production: Helps rebuild and strengthen the skin’s underlying structure, which can provide a firmer, more youthful appearance.
- Long-Lasting Results: Unlike superficial treatments, CO2 laser resurfacing offers long-term skin improvements with lasting results.
- Precise & Effective: Fractionated technology focuses energy on specific areas of the skin while preserving healthy surrounding tissue for faster healing.
What Conditions Can Be Treated?
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Sun damage and age spots
- Uneven skin tone or texture
- Skin laxity or sagging
CO2 Laser Resurfacing Procedure Overview
Treatment Process:
- The CO2 laser is applied to the skin during your surgery. The fractionated technology creates micro-injuries in the skin to trigger collagen remodeling while leaving healthy tissue intact for quicker healing.
- The procedure typically lasts about 10-30 minutes depending on the area(s) treated.
Recovery:
- Immediately after the procedure, you may experience redness, swelling, and a sensation similar to a sunburn. Flaking of the skin occurs during the first week.
- Healing usually takes about 7-10 days, but results continue to improve over several months as collagen is produced. Redness generally lasts a few weeks.
Post-Procedure Care & Tips:
- Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly
- Moisturize the treated area to prevent dryness and promote healing.
- Follow your aftercare instructions closely to ensure optimal healing.
- Avoid makeup for the first two weeks to allow the skin to breathe and heal.
Who is an Ideal Candidate?
- Individuals with skin damage, deep wrinkles, or scars.
- Lighter skinned individuals
- Those looking for long-lasting skin rejuvenation solution.
- Patients with the ability to commit to a short recovery period.
Post-Procedure Care & Tips:
- Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly
- Moisturize the treated area to prevent dryness and promote healing.
- Follow your aftercare instructions closely to ensure optimal healing.
- Avoid makeup for the first two weeks to allow the skin to breathe and heal.
Risks & Considerations:
- Redness & Swelling: These are common and typically subside within 2-4 weeks.
- Pigmentation Changes: There is a small risk of temporary or permanent changes in skin pigmentation those with darker skin tones (Asian, Latino, African American).
- Infection: Though rare, infection can occur if aftercare instructions are not followed.
- Sensitivity: Your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight after the procedure, so sun protection is critical for the first few months. Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Fully ablative fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing is an excellent treatment for those seeking improvements in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. With proper aftercare, this procedure can offer remarkable, long-lasting results.
