CO2 Laser Treatment Experts in Vienna, VA

The CO2 laser is a carbon dioxide laser used in skin resurfacing.

How does CO2 laser work?

Its effects are similar to those of chemical peels and dermabrasion, except it removes skin layers by vaporization rather than with chemicals or a sanding device. 

What can CO2 laser treat?

This treatment is for anyone with fine lines or wrinkles throughout the face, such as around the eyes, mouth or forehead, acne scars, and sun-damaged skin. CO2 laser resurfacing treatment is considered the gold standard for rejuvenating photoaged skin.

While various scar treatments have been developed over the years, the safest and most effective treatment now available is CO2 Laser. It is a new type of laser that will resurface only a part of the affected skin, without affecting the surrounding area. This reduces the possibility of side effects and speeds up healing. The majority of patients will begin to see improvements after around 1 week has passed following the treatment. Ongoing improvements will continue for about 6 months. While results will vary from one patient to the next, most will see an improvement ranging from 50 to 70 percent of their condition.

What results can be expected from CO2 laser?

Generally, laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure requiring no overnight stay.

Your dermatologist may treat individual wrinkles around your eyes, mouth, or forehead or treat your entire face. For small areas a local anesthetic is used, whereas sedation is used if the whole face is treated.

Following the laser procedure, the dermatologist will bandage the treated area. Starting 24 hours after treatment, you will need to clean the treated area four to five times a day. Then you’ll need to apply an ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to prevent scabs from forming. Healing time can range from one to three weeks depending on the treatment.