CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a popular and effective cosmetic treatment here at RejuvaMed Health & Wellness. It rejuvenates the skin by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, scars (such as acne scarring for example) and other signs of ageing. The procedure uses precision laser technology to cause trauma to the upper layers of the skin, which stimulates the natural production of collagen and elastin fibres, resulting in smoother, younger-looking skin underneath. If you’re considering CO2 laser skin resurfacing, here’s everything you need to know before diving in.
What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing involves the use of a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to emit short bursts of heat energy to the skin tissue. Unlike older techniques, modern CO2 lasers can treat skin issues with high precision while minimising damage to surrounding tissues. This allows for a more targeted treatment with less downtime for patients.
CO2 lasers are fractional lasers, meaning they can treat microscopic zones of skin, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This allows for faster healing and reduces the risk of complications post procedure. The treatment can address a variety of skin concerns, including:
– Fine lines and wrinkles
– Acne scars and other types of scarring
– Sun damage and age spots
– Uneven skin tone and texture
– Enlarged pores
How Does CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?
CO2 laser resurfacing works by removing the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and heating the underlying layer (dermis). This heating triggers the skin’s natural healing process, encouraging the production of new collagen and elastin fibres. Collagen is the protein responsible for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity, so boosting collagen levels can lead to firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time.
The depth of the treatment can be customised depending on the severity of the skin concerns, skin type and for patient comfort. For mild issues, a more superficial treatment may be enough, while deeper wrinkles and scars may require more intensive skin resurfacing.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before undergoing CO2 laser resurfacing, you will attend a consultation with one of our friendly aestheticians to determine whether CO2 Laser is the most suitable treatment for you and your concern. If you and your aesthetician agree to proceed, here’s what a typical procedure looks like:
- Preparation: On the day of the treatment, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and a topical anaesthetic cream will be applied to the treatment area to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. You can then sit back and relax in one of our comfortable treatment rooms whilst the numbing cream takes effect. This takes around 30 minutes.
- The procedure: Your aesthetician will use the laser device to deliver precise bursts of energy to the targeted areas. You may feel warmth or mild discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful. The length of the procedure can vary depending on how much of your face (or body) is being treated but typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour.
- Post procedure care: After the treatment, your skin will be red, swollen, and may feel like sunburn. A high factor SPF will be applied to provide ultimate protection, and you should continue to apply this daily at home as part of your normal skincare routine. You will be provided with specific aftercare instructions which are crucial that you follow to avoid any infection/ adverse reaction to the skin & to obtain the best results from your treatment.
Recovery and Downtime
One of the key factors to consider with CO2 laser resurfacing is the downtime required. The recovery period can vary depending on the intensity of the treatment. Full recovery time can take up to 4 weeks, including 2 weeks of recovery and 2 weeks of repair.
The anticipated skin reactions following a CO2 Laser treatment is redness & sensitivity for the first 3 or 4 days. The skin will then begin to darken in colour, this again is an anticipated healing reaction before the treated area begins to peel. Until the skin starts to peel, the area should be kept as dry as possible and product and makeup free. When your skin begins to peel, this is the ablated tissue shredding from the skin so that new, healthy tissue can shine through. This flaking skin should be allowed to fall off of its own accord and should not be forced off in any way.
Until the skin is fully healed (when all the ablated tissue has naturally peeled away), you should avoid:
Direct sunlight
Very hot baths & showers
Strenuous exercise, swimming, jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms and sun beds.
Applying makeup
Any fragranced products, body lotions/creams/perfumes/aftershaves to the treated area
Touching the treated skin
Results: What Can You Expect?
Once your skin has fully healed, you’ll likely notice significant improvements in texture, tone, and overall appearance. Many patients report that their skin feels firmer, smoother, and more youthful after CO2 laser resurfacing. The full effects of the treatment can take several months to appear as collagen continues to regenerate beneath the skin’s surface. A course of treatments is generally advised to gain the optimum results. The number of sessions vary for each individual and their specific skin type, concern and desired results. Within your initial consultation, your aesthetician will advise on how many sessions they recommend to start with and progress will be continuously monitored through the duration of your treatment plan.
The results of CO2 laser resurfacing can last for years, especially with proper skincare and sun protection. However, ageing and environmental factors will continue to affect your skin over time, so some people choose to undergo maintenance treatments to keep on top of their results.
Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing Right for You?
While CO2 laser resurfacing offers excellent results for many people, it may not be the best option for everyone. Here are some factors to consider:
Skin Type: People with lighter skin tones tend to have better results and fewer complications with laser resurfacing. Darker skin tones are at higher risk of pigmentation changes after treatment, so other resurfacing methods may be advised as a safer option.
Existing Skin Conditions: If you have active acne, psoriasis, or a tendency to develop keloid scars, you may not be an ideal candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing.
Downtime: The recovery time can be substantial, so if you have a busy schedule or upcoming events, plan accordingly.
Commitment: A single CO2 laser treatment will help to stimulate the natural collagen and elastin production within the skin, but it’s important to know that noticeable results and an actual visible change to the appearance of the skin requires more than one treatment. This is a commitment and you must be fully dedicated to following the treatment plan as instructed by your aesthetician to gain the best possible results from your treatment.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, CO2 laser skin resurfacing comes with potential risks and side effects which will be discussed in detail with you during your consultation at the clinic, however choosing a skilled and experienced provider significantly reduces the risk of complications. We have exemplary reviews from very happy patients who have chosen RejuvaMed Health & Wellness to rejuvenate their skin with CO2 Laser. If you want to read some of our patient’s thoughts & experiences with us, head to our google reviews page!
