What is CO2 Laser?

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a non-invasive procedure involving the use of carbon dioxide and a skin surface-removing laser to resurface and rejuvenate the skin.

There are two types of laser treatments commonly available:

  1. Ablative lasers work by removing the thin outer layer of skin and heating the underlying skin to stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers. As the skin heals and regrows, the treated skin appears clearer, smoother and tighter.
  2. Non-ablative lasers don’t remove any layers of skin but may instead be used for rosacea, spider veins and acne-related skin concerns. This treatment is less intense and requires less recovery time than ablative lasers. These lasers also stimulate collagen growth.

These laser treatments, also known as fractional laser, refer to the use of multiple small columns of laser beams with spaces in between rather than larger beams which target the entire surface of the skin. This approach allows better healing and a lower risk profile.

At Cosmedic & Skin Clinic, we use fractional laser technology, which offers the most advanced and precise micro laser restoration treatment. This highly effective and safe treatment is less invasive than dermabrasion and chemical peeling. CO2 laser treatment can address the following skin conditions:

  • Acne scarring
  • Sun damage
  • Age spots
  • Surgical scars
  • Wrinkles
  • Skin tightening
  • Stretch marks

How does CO2 laser work?

CO2 laser treatments work by sending short, concentrated pulsating beams of energy directly to the targeted skin areas. Lasers can be used in a full ablative setting or fractioned setting where tiny micro-columns are tunnelled into the skin surface, which allows for a customised treatment that depends on your skin type and concerns.

This treatment allows you to harness your body’s own potential to heal itself as the body breaks down the damaged cells and removes them. The Hot Dot laser only treats a small fraction of skin at a time, allowing the cells in the untreated areas to form a bridge that speeds up the healing process. This stimulates the body’s natural process to produce fresh, elastic collagen cells which may encourage a smoother more youthful appearance.

Typically, as a result of thermal damage from the lasers, collagen shrinkage results in some immediate skin tightening, with further improvements in skin tightness and collagen density occurring gradually over time.

Ablative laser resurfacing can take anywhere between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated.

What is the recovery like after CO2 laser?

There is generally only modest discomfort in laser treatments, and you may only experience a prickling sensation throughout the tissue as the cells are gently heated.

Afterwards, your skin may feel a bit like a sunburn, with your skin appearing red for up to four days. Some patients experience a slight crusting on the skin, depending on the particular intensity of their treatment.  As a general rule, the bigger the treatment area and the deeper the laser, the longer it will take for the skin to return to normal.

As you’ll need to avoid direct sun exposure two to four weeks prior to having treatment, it is recommended to undergo CO2 laser treatments during the cooler months as you’re likely to be spending more time indoors.

CO2 Laser at Cosmedic & Skin Clinic

For any cosmetic procedure, invasive or otherwise, it’s important to work with an experienced medical professionals. Our resident doctor, Dr Amie Grewal, is a passionate medical practitioner who holds a Diploma in Dermatology and would love to help you with your skin management plan. Our aesthetic nurses also have extensive experience and years of training to help you achieve your best skin yet.

If you would like to find out if CO2 laser treatments will be right for you or book your next treatment with Dr Amie, read more here or contact us online.