C02 laser resurfacing uses pulses of laser light. These beams penetrate the skin’s surface, where water in the skin cells absorbs them. When this happens, the epidermis, or superficial layer of your skin, is vaporized. The dermis, or middle layer, heats up, stimulating the growth of new collagen fibers. As the area heals, new firmer, smoother skin replaces the old layers. During CO2 laser resurfacing, your board certified aesthetic provider can target specific areas of your skin with precision, so the treatment won’t affect the rest of the skin nearby. Not only can it reduce the appearance of wrinkles right away, It also encourages collagen production, which can improve the health of your skin over time.

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What does CO2 fractional laser do?

The CO2 Fractional resurfacing laser is carbon dioxide laser which precisely removes deep outer layers of damaged skin and stimulates the regeneration of healthy skin underneath. The CO2 treats fine to moderately deep wrinkles, photo damage, scarring, skin tone, texture, crepiness and laxity.

A person may seek CO2 laser treatment to treat skin conditions, such as acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, or skin aging.

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Benefits of CO2 laser treatment

Ablative lasers, such as CO2 lasers, may help treat certain skin conditions, includingTrusted Source:

• fine to moderate wrinkles

• liver spots

• uneven skin tone

• sun-damaged skin

• acne scars

• chickenpox scars

• mild scarring

• actinic keratosis

• seborrheic keratosis

 

CO2 laser recovery

The skin typically requires 2–4 weeks to completely heal from CO2 laser treatment. New skin begins to grow after around 2 weeks following laser treatment.

The skin will initially be quite raw and may have drainage immediately after laser treatment. It may also look and feel as if it is severely sunburned. Healthcare professionals will cover the skin with a mask bandage for a few days.

While the skin recovers, a person should do the following to prevent damage to the skin:

• stay at home and avoid strenuous activity

• not pick or scratch at the skin while it is recovering

• use over-the-counter pain medication or ice packs to reduce pain

• minimize direct sun exposure and use proper sun protection such as sunscreen

• attend follow-up appointments to monitor recovery

• take any prescription medication a healthcare professional prescribes

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*CO2 Laser is not compatible with all skin types/ tones.  Some may not be able to have this treatment. It can flare up certain medical conditions like rosacea