What exactly is the CO2 Fractional Resurfacing Laser treatment?
Living on the Seacoast, we know that the sun can take years off of our skin. With technology always changing and evolving, so does our knowledge and how we treat patients. DCCM offers the CO2 Fractional Resurfacing Laser that will literally reverse signs of aging. Whether you suffer from fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots, scarring, uneven coloration, skin laxity, dull tone, and a thinned collagen layer of the skin, CO2 Fractional Resurfacing Laser can help achieve your aesthetic goals and make you look years younger. The Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fractional Laser Resurfacing by Syneron-Candela removes layers of skin tissue in a fractionated method, where columns of skin are removed, leaving the skin surrounding each column intact to aid in healing. The science behind the laser is astonishing. The CO2 Fractionated Laser Resurfacing treatment targets the outer layer of the skin while simultaneously heating the lower layers in the dermis, which will promote collagen production. These new collagen fibers will help produce new skin that is smoother in texture and firmer to the touch. So not only does the CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing help with reducing age spots, wrinkles, acne scars, and other blemishes, but it also tightens the skin and balances the skin tone.
Does CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing treatment require downtime?
Laser resurfacing treatments are considered to be non-surgical, however, not all are downtime-free. Recovery time depends on the type of laser used, the depth and area of treatment, and an individual’s tolerance for pain. The CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing treatment is a non-surgical treatment that penetrates deep into the dermis of the skin, so downtime is expected. The CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing is the best treatment if you wish to get the most results with one treatment. Having this one treatment is like having multiple other non-invasive treatments at once, so it may take up to 7-14 days for the skin to properly heal. After their treatment, most people feel as though they have a bad sunburn but will subside within 12-48 hours. The downtime will include significant redness, crusting, possibly minor bleeding, and oozing depending on treatment depth, dryness, and peeling and flaking. It is of utmost importance to keep the skin moist after treatment. We recommend using a white-vinegar soak or Aquaphor post-treatment.
Are the results from the CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing permanent?
What is so great about the CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing treatment is that once the treatment area begins to heal, the results are immediate with improvement in skin quality and appearance. The effects can last up to years. After laser resurfacing, it is important to avoid unprotected sun exposure to the area for up to a year, as we want to prevent irregular pigmentation. Maintenance treatments may also be necessary to maintain results, especially if the sun is not avoided or proper skin care is used. Occasionally, even with the best care, another treatment may be necessary for a few year’s time, as the skin ages and will continue to acquire fine lines (in the area around the eyes, it may only be 1-2 years).