CO2 Skin Resurfacing

• Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Effectively smooths out the appearance of aging by promoting collagen production.
• Sun Damage/ Dark Spots: Targets and diminishes sunspots, uneven pigmentation, and freckled skin caused by UV exposure.
• Acne Scarring: Helps to reduce the visibility of acne scars and uneven skin tone, providing a more uniform complexion.
• Tightening: Stimulates collagen and elastin production, leading to a firmer and tighter dermis.
• Skin Texture: Promotes a smoother surface by removing damaged outer layers of skin.
• Enlarged Pores: Helps to refine the appearance of pores, resulting in a smoother-looking complexion.

Key Considerations for darker Skin Types:

1. Increased Risk of Hyperpigmentation:
   • Darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation after aggressive treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing.
   • To minimize this risk, lower laser settings, fractional technology, and pre-treatment skin preparation are recommended.
2. Need for Specialized Pre- and Post-Treatment Care:
   • Your Clinician may prescribe topical treatments such as hydroquinone, retinoids, or azelaic acid before and after the procedure to prevent PIH.
   • Sun protection is crucial, as UV exposure can exacerbate pigmentation issues.
3. Customization of Laser Settings:
   • Traditional fully ablative CO2 lasers are not an option for darker skin tones. Instead, fractional CO2 lasers, which leave microscopic untreated areas for faster healing, are preferred.
   • Using lower energy settings and adjusting pulse duration can help reduce thermal damage to surrounding skin.
4. Longer Recovery and Healing Process:
   • While healing time varies, individuals with more melanin may experience prolonged redness or darkening before the skin returns to its normal tone.
   • Gentle skincare, hydration, and avoiding harsh exfoliants during recovery are essential.

Who is a Good Candidate?

• Individuals with acne scars, fine lines, or textural concerns who are willing to follow a strict pre- and post-procedure regimen.
• Those who do not have active keloid scarring tendencies, as darker skin is more prone to hypertrophic and keloid scars.
• Patients who can commit to sun protection and skincare to prevent complications.

Conclusion:

While CO2 laser resurfacing can be beneficial for darker skin tones, careful patient selection, customized settings, and diligent aftercare are necessary to achieve optimal results with minimal risks. Consulting with an experienced clinician who understands ethnic skin is essential for safe and effective treatment.

The intensity of the treatment is customizable, depending on your skin type,and your desired results.  This directly relates to the length of social downtime required.

At RestoBod Laser Clinic, we use the Co2re Laser - a CO2 fractional laser by Candela Medical, the leader in medical aesthetics technology.

CO2 laser resurfacing is the GOAT! An advanced treatment designed to rejuvenate the skin by precisely targeting imperfections with fractional laser technology. This method targets water in the cells and evaporates the water at such a high temperate that it ablates the skin. Creating microscopic controlled injuries spurs your body into healing itself, thus creating new collagen and strengthening the elastin.  Think aerating your grass - those areas of grass left behind encourage growth of brand new, healthy grass; filling in the holes and leaving a lush lawn behind.

The CO2 laser targets the epidermis, leading to its evaporation. This process not only removes damaged skin but also stimulates the dermis, the underlying layer, by heating it in a very controlled way and at pre-determined depths. This thermal effect encourages the production of new collagen fibers, which are essential for maintaining youthful skin, firmness and smoothness. At a reputable laser rejuvenation clinic like RestoBod, we apply this technique with precision, focusing on specific areas of concern while minimizing impact on the surrounding areas. This targeted approach enhances the treatment's effectiveness and ensures optimal results.

DID YOU KNOW?

RestoBod Laser Clinic offers complimentary consultations for clients considering getting CO2 Laser Resurfacing.

What is the CO2 Laser Procedure Like?

You can expect some mild to moderate discomfort during the laser procedure, but topical anesthetic will be applied prior to beginning, making the treatment more tolerable.

Your appointment time includes 45-60 minutes to apply numbing cream to your face. This will help ease the discomfort of the laser procedure, and we'll provide a place to lay down, and work on your laptop, listen to your headphones or just relax.

Next, we will discuss your treatment protocol and determine the depth of the CO2 Laser Treatment. We will start with a small patch to check your comfort level, and then proceed to work one area at a time.

The entire CO2 treatment will take some time, however the majority of your session will be to prep each section of your face. The actual Co2 laser time is less than 20 minutes.

Post - procedure, you will feel a sensation similar to a sunburn, lasting several hours. We take good care of you during this time, with cold saline gauzes and a handheld fan to cool your face until you're comfortable to go home.

What to Expect After CO2 Laser Treatment

After undergoing a fractional CO2 laser treatment for your face, it’s essential to understand what to expect during the recovery period. In the initial days following the procedure, your treated area will typically appear red and may feel sensitive, much like a sunburn. This reaction is a normal part of the natural healing process as the treated skin cells begins to recover.

You can expect peeling of dead skin from the treatment area for up to 7-10 days.

During this time, you might experience crusting, oozing,  swelling, itching, and peeling. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are typically temporary and should improve within the first week of recovery. However, it is crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions to minimize the risk of complications, such as infection or scarring.

To promote faster healing and reduce the likelihood of complications, it is vital to avoid sun exposure during the recovery period. UV rays can irritate the healing skin and lead to pigmentation issues or permanent scarring. Patients are often advised to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and to wear protective clothing when outdoors. Additionally, it's important to refrain from applying makeup for several days after the treatment, allowing treated areas to breathe and heal properly.

Focus on hydrating and soothing topical products recommended by your healthcare provider, as these will support your recovery. Always consult with your clinician if you have concerns about the appropriate care during this sensitive time.

Lastly, while CO2 laser treatments are generally safe, understanding the recovery time and what can occur during the healing process is essential for achieving optimal results. By adhering to your clinician’s aftercare recommendations and monitoring closely for potential side effects closely, you can help ensure a smoother recovery experience, minimizing the risk of infection or potential complications.

If any unusual symptoms arise it’s crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider promptly. This proactive approach will ensure your laser-treated sites heals effectively and retains its rejuvenated appearance.

How Many CO2 Treatment Sessions Are Required?

Generally you will see significant differences after one co2 laser session. Your skin will gradually look smoother, softer, with less unwanted pigment.  Over time, fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, scarring and uneven texture will start to improve with the creation of new collagen and strengthen elastin.

During your initial consultation at RestoBod Laser Clinic, our care team will help determine how many treatment sessions may be necessary

How to Prepare For Your Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment

We start with your free initial consultation, where we will discuss your treatment protocol and customize it to your skin type and desired outcomes. We will give you instructions to prepare for treatment, which, depending on your medical history, pre-care typically involves:

Avoid Tanning and Sun Exposure: Stay out of the sun and avoid tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior to your treatment.

Medication: We discourage the use of medications that can increase sun sensitivity (such as doxycycline) at least 3 days before the procedure. If you have a history of herpes or shingles, take an antiviral medication for a few days prior to and after the treatment as advised by your dermatologist.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment to keep hydrated.

Avoid Blood Thinners: Refrain from taking medications and supplements that may act as blood thinners (like aspirin or fish oil) for several days before your procedure, as directed by your provider.

Prepare for Recovery: Arrange for time off or assistance during the initial recovery process, as there may be discomfort and visible peeling of the treatment sites post-treatment.