If you are looking to rejuvenate your skin and reversing the visible signs of aging, very few treatments are as efficient and long-lasting in the same way as CO2 laser skin resurfacing. Here at Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology we specialize in offering advanced treatments for cosmetic dermatology treatments, including laser skin refractive for helping you achieve a radiant, youthful skin. Laser skin resurfacing
No matter whether you're looking to treat damaged skin caused by sun and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines, or simply refresh your complexion, CO2 laser treatment is a very effective technology that's backed by science. In this article we'll take a look at the ways in which CO2 laser resurfacing is done, who is it best suited for, the effects you can expect and how it compares to different treatment options for skin renewal.
What is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing is an ablation laser treatment which removes the superficial layers of skin that have been damaged to boost collagen production and stimulate healthy, new skin development. The procedure uses a fractional CO2 laser that is able to target micro-areas of the skin in a grid-like manner, leaving surrounding tissue intact. This accelerates recovery and minimizes the amount of time it takes to recover.
The treatment is extremely beneficial for a variety issues, such as:
Sun-damaged skin
Fine lines and wrinkles, deep wrinkles
Acne scars
Uneven skin texture and tone
Pores that are larger
Scars from surgery or trauma
How Does Fractional CO2 Lasers Function?
It is fractional CO2 laser emits controlled laser pulses which penetrate the skin's surface. The small beams of light create microthermal zones that trigger your body's healing processes. As your skin heals, it replaces damaged and old cells with new, revitalized tissue. Additionally, treatment triggers collagen remodeling, which is a key factor in the smoother and firmer appearance of your skin.
Unlike traditional CO2 lasers that are able to ablate the entire surface of the skin, fractional technology treats only a "fraction" on the skin at a time dramatically reducing healing times and the risk of.
Pros and cons of using CO2 lasers
1. Treats sun-damaged skin
Exposure to sun for a long time can cause pigmentation and rough texture, and sagging skin. CO2 lasers help to treat damaged skin from sun exposure by taking away the outermost damaged layers and encouraging healthy skin growth.
2. Eliminates Wrinkles and Fine Lines
If you're looking for to have a procedure to treat wrinkles using lasers, this procedure provides remarkable results. In addition to stimulating collagen growth and smoothing out the skin's surface, it offers an efficient laser wrinkle treatments currently available.
3. Enhances the Skin Tone as well Texture
The uneven pigmentation, rough spots, and dullness may be improved by treatment with lasers. Your skin will not just feel softer and firmer but will also appear more even-toned and glowing.
4. It is minimally invasive and has long-lasting Results
While it's an ablation procedure fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is less painful than more traditional techniques, with a majority of patients seeing results that last for decades with proper skincare along with sun block.
Best Candidates for Laser Skin Resurfacing
You could be a great potential candidate CO2 laser refrsurfacing in the following scenarios:
You may have moderate to severe facial wrinkles.
You're looking to take care of sun damaged skin or skin pigmentation issues.
You have visible acne scars and surgical marks.
You're overall healthy and you're setting realistic expectations.
But, people who have darker skin shades should seek advice from a professional like Dr. Monica Scheel, as the risk is higher for hyperpigmentation due to ablative light sources.
What to Expect During the Process
The treatment is typically performed at the office, under topical sedation and sometimes local anesthesia depending on what size the area is. This is a brief overview of what takes place:
Prepared: Your skin will be cleansed and numbing cream applied.
Treatment: The fractional CO2 laser passes through the skin, with the intention of targeting damaged cells. The treatment can last between 30 and 90 hours depending on the zone.
Post-Treatment: You may experience swelling, redness, or the sensation of sunburn for several days. The healing process typically takes 5-10 days.
Once your skin has healed, you'll notice firmer, smoother and well-toned skin.
Recovery and aftercare
The proper aftercare and care is vital for ensuring optimal results and to avoid complications. Here are some important guidelines:
Keep your skin clean and well-hydrated using non-comedogenic and gentle products.
Avoid exposure to sun and apply SPF that has a broad spectrum of minimum 30.
Avoid picking or peeling the skin during the time of recovery.
Follow all post-treatment instructions given in the instructions of your dermatologist.
The majority of patients return to their regular routines within 7-10 working days, but redness could last for a few months, similar to an occasional sunburn.
How Many Sessions are Required?
One of the advantages to CO2 laser refractive treatment is that the dramatic improvement is usually seen after just one treatment. For more serious skin issues, your dermatologist may suggest multiple sessions, spaced over several months.
Results What to Expect
Patients typically start seeing improvements within a week of the skin has fully healed. However, full-on effects -- specifically related to collagen production -- can take anywhere from 3-6 months to show.
The results include:
Visibly less wrinkles
Smoother, more youthful skin
Improved skin elasticity
Sun and age spots that have faded, as well as sun damage
With a proper skin care regimen and sunscreen, results can last for years.
CO2 Laser Vs. Additional Skin Revitalization Treatments
CO2 Laser Resurfacing vs. Microneedling
Microneedling is not as invasive and has a shorter recuperation period, but it doesn't result in the same dramatic changes such as CO2 laser treatment for wrinkles and deep scars.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing vs. Chemical Peels
Although chemical peels can address the appearance of skin problems but they do not have the precision and depth of treatment CO2 laser provides, particularly on scars and lines with a deeper depth.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing vs. Non-Ablative Lasers
Non-ablative light sources require multiple procedures and give more subtle results. However, ablative laser resurfacing such as CO2 produces more tangible, long-lasting results in only a few sessions.
Combining CO2 Laser with other Treatments
The Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology, you'll find that your facial laser resurfacing plan can be tailored in order to boost your overall results. CO2 laser treatments are usually used in conjunction with:
Botox also known as Dysport for wrinkles that are dynamic
Fillers for dermal use to reduce volume
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) for pigment correction
Skincare products of medical grade to preserve the results
Combining treatments can help us combat multiple aging signs in all-encompassing manner.
Why Choose the Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology for Laser Skin Resurfacing?
With decades of expertise in Cosmetic dermatology, dermatologist Dr. Monica Scheel and her team are experts on cosmetic skin rejuvenation using lasers. Here's why people across Hawaii have confidence in us:
A board certified provider with extensive laser-based training
New and cutting-edge CO2 fractional laser technology
A customized treatment plan that is tailored to the type of your skin and needs
Proven track record in treating damaged skin caused by sun as well as wrinkles, scars and much many more
Our focus is on security, efficiency and complete satisfaction for our patients. If you're looking for an individual treatment or complete transformation of your skin, we'll guide you every step of the process.
Frequently asked questions
Q Are CO2 lasers uncomfortable?
Most patients describe the procedure as slightly uncomfortable. Anesthesia agents that numb the area and local anesthesia are used to ease discomfort.
Q What's the duration of redness that persist after therapy?
Initial redness typically subsides within 7-10 days. Mild pinkness can persist for a couple of weeks.
Q What is the best way to wear makeup following CO2 laser resurfacing?
You shouldn't wear makeup until the skin has completely healedusually around 10 days post-treatment.
Q: Is this treatment safe for all types of skin?
While the treatment is beneficial for lighter skin tone and darker skin tones, people with darker complexions should undergo a consultation to determine if the treatment is suitable and discuss issues such as pigmentation changes.
Reclaim radiant Skin Today
If you're seeking to revitalize your skin and regain a youthful radiant, healthy glow CO2 laser Resurfacing may be the perfect match. It is the leader in laser rejuvenation of skin and wrinkle treatment Dr. Monica Scheel Dermatology provides the highest quality of service and the latest technology.
Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step toward visibly smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin.