Skin resurfacing using laser has never been safer or easier. The most powerful skin resurfacing laser is the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. CO2 laser resurfacing is used to reduce the occurrence of skin irregularities such blemishes, acne scars, and wrinkles. The treatment utilizes CO2 laser to remove irregular skin in layers by exposing the skin to direct, concentrated shots of light energy.

The CO2 laser technology, although fairly new, has set a benchmark in the cosmetic world for one of the most efficient and comfortable laser resurfacing procedures. The tool we selected to perform the CO2 laser resurfacing treatment is the Lumenis Carbon Dioxide Ultrapulse Laser.

The CO2 laser is known for its effectiveness and versatility in numerous applications. It can penetrate the skin deeper than any other ablative lasers and is a perfect choice for both complex and thick lesions, as well as everyday procedures.

The Ideal Candidates For A Laser Resurfacing Procedure

You may be a good candidate if you have facial wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, or other sun damage to your skin. If a facelift has left you with non-responsive skin, or if you have shallow scars that are caused by acne, this treatment is perfect for you. By meeting with an experienced care provider, you can find out more about the treatment and if it is suited for your needs.

How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?

The CO2 laser resurfacing technique is a go-to procedure for doctors treating irregular skin conditions such as warts, wrinkles, scars, enlarged oil glands, and other conditions. The laser vaporizes the damaged skin cells on the surface. The most recent version of the CO2 laser resurfacing procedure makes use of intense light energy that is used to vaporize layers of damaged skin without causing harm to the surrounding healthy tissue, called fractionation. Leaving microscopic islands of untreated skin in between each laser spot speeds healing, and reduces pain and chances of infection with nearly the same results as a complete ablation.

How To Prepare For The Procedure

To begin the process, you will need to find a doctor who you can trust to deliver your desired results. After talking to you about what you can expect from the treatment, your doctor will then create a treatment plan to suit your individual needs.

Things To Expect During And After The Procedure

An overnight stay is unnecessary for this procedure. If your doctor is only treating specific areas of your face, the duration of the procedure will only be 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re receiving a treatment for your whole face, the procedure can then take up to two hours.

After the procedure is completed, you will be observed in the recovery room, and then sent home when you are fully awake and comfortable. You will need to apply cool compresses frequently, and keep the treated areas moist with ointment. Most patients require little-or-no pain medication. Swelling is to be expected, but it will subside in time. To reduce the swelling, try to sleep with your head elevated, or try putting a cold pack on the treated areas. Depending on the depth of treatment, the skin should be healed in 2-7days. Redness usually persists longer, and can be covered with make-up.

Contact Our Office

As you can see, CO2 laser resurfacing is an effective way to help you look and feel younger. It has very few, side effects, is cost-effective, and a high-tech method of cosmetic rejuvenation. If you’re interested in learning more about the treatment, contact our office. Dr. Yoash Enzer, Rhode Island’s leading cosmetic specialist, will guide you through the entire process from beginning to end.