What is CO2 laser treatment?
Wrinkles, superficial scars, and pigmentation problems exist on the skin’s top layer, or epidermis. Using CO2 lasers allows Forefront skin experts to gently remove the epidermis, so smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin can grow in.
A CO2 laser is a carbon dioxide laser used in skin resurfacing. As an ablative laser, it removes the epidermal layer of skin to stimulate collagen.
How does the CO2 laser work?
The effects of the CO2 laser are similar to those of chemical peels and dermabrasion, but instead of using chemicals or a sanding device, it uses gentle vaporization to remove skin. With one pass of the handheld laser, multiple micro-sized injuries are created in the targeted area of the epidermis. The result is reduced heat injury to the skin, fewer side effects, and a faster recovery than other ablative skin resurfacing techniques.
What can CO2 laser treat?
CO2 laser resurfacing treatment is considered the gold standard for rejuvenating photoaged skin. It can address issues such as:
Fine lines or wrinkles throughout the face, including around the eyes, mouth, and forehead
Acne scars and other types of scarring, including chickenpox scars
Pigmentation issues like melasma and sun spots
How can I prepare for CO2 laser treatment?
Your Forefront skin expert will provide instructions for treatment preparation. In general, we recommend that patients:
Stop using hydroxy acids, oral isotretinoin (Accutane), acne antibiotics, and other skin-sensitizing treatments as they increase your risk of laser burns.
Avoid blood thinners, ibuprofen and similar painkillers, steroids, vitamin E, and other drugs that interfere with the wound-healing process.
Stop smoking and avoid alcohol, which can disrupt the skin’s repair process.
Start using sun protection regularly.
On the day of your appointment, cleanse your face and don’t wear makeup.
What is CO2 laser treatment like?
Generally, laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure requiring no overnight stay.
For small areas such as wrinkles around the eyes, a local anesthetic will be applied. If the entire face is being treated, sedation may be used.
Once you are comfortable in the chair, your provider will place the laser wand on the targeted area. The entire treatment process takes 1 to 2 hours.
What results can be expected from CO2 laser treatment?
Following the procedure, a protective ointment will be applied to the treatment area along with bandages. Starting 24 hours after treatment, you will need to clean the treated area four to five times a day and reapply ointment to prevent scabs from forming. Healing time can range from 1-3 weeks depending on the treatment.
The majority of patients will begin to see improvements around 1 week after 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.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of CO2 laser treatment? Contact a Forefront location near you.
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