About Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
While non-surgical, this treatment is considered to be more invasive than other skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatments, which is exactly why the results are so noticeable. Effectively, Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing using our CO2 laser involves the intentional, controlled "wounding" of the skin to kickstart a regenerative, healing process which leads to an overall younger, healthier appearance.
Our CO2 Resurfacing Laser is "Fractional", meaning that it produces micro-columns of coagulated tissue deep into the layers of the skin. These "micro traumas" to the skin trigger a healing response that promotes cellular renovation in the areas around the coagulated tissue. At the same time, the columns of coagula form canals through which excessive pigments are eliminated.
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This therapy can be applied specifically in areas that present hyperpigmentation, textural irregularities, and other aspects of scars, making it one of the most effective technologies to tend to and treat acne scars and stretch marks caused by pregnancy, weight changes, or puberty.
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Laser Skin Resurfacing:
How It Works
At Medisthetics Wellness & Laser Clinic Laser, Fractional Skin Resurfacing is a proven way to help reduce wrinkles, remove age spots, soften acne scars, as well as tighten skin and balance skin tone.
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Our CO2 Resurfacing Laser penetrates deep into the skin in a precise pattern which deeply targets specific sections of the skin at a time, stimulating the production of new collagen while minimizing the downtime of previous technology. Over a series of treatments, wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks become filled in by the newly formed collagen, resulting in the appearance of tighter, smoother, and more youthful skin.
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What Can the CO2 Resurfacing Laser Treat?
The CO2 Resurfacing Laser is a "Non-Ablative" skin resurfacing system, meaning that it does not remove the outermost layer of skin as is done by "Ablative" lasers. Instead, it works by heating up the skin's underlying tissue, treating it from the outside, in, without damaging the surrounding tissue.
It can address a wide range of skin concerns, including:
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Wrinkles & Fine Lines
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Skin Laxity or Loose Skin
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Uneven Skin Tone or Textural Irregularities
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Sunspots and Age Spots
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Blemishes
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Acne Scarring
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Scarring following Traumatic Injury
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Preparing for Your Fractional CO2 Laser Appointment
We will provide you with specific laser treatment pre-op instructions, but our general rule of thumb is to avoid tanning for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment, as skin that has been exposed to UV rays is at a higher risk for complications, discomfort, and burning during the procedure.
Fractional Laser Resurfacing is a treatment that can yield excellent long-term results for your skin and your decision to care for your skin begins prior to treatment.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
CO2 Resurfacing only requires a single pass of the area to be treated, allowing for a fast and comfortable treatment with minimal downtime. Our CO2 Resurfacing Laser is safe for use on patients with Skin Types 1-4 and your skin type can be precisely determined during your consultation.
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The entire CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment typically takes approximately 30 minutes. A series of treatments spaced apart by 8 weeks is recommended in order to achieve optimal results.
What to Expect Following Your Treatment
Recovery for the procedure involves minimal discomfort (most patients consider it very tolerable and liken it to a warm, tingly sensation, much like a sunburn). Ideally, some downtime (anywhere from a few days to a week) will allow for full cell turnover and skin recovery, but some do return to work the same or next day. Gentle make-up can help to camouflage the reddened, warm skin and the most extreme redness lasts anywhere from 2-48 hours post-treatment.
As with all services at our clinic, proper, detailed post-treatment care will be outlined and your specialist will check in in the days following. Sun protection is of the utmost importance, regardless of the time of year!
Fractional CO2 Laser Risks & Complications
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Fractional laser treatments are typically very well tolerated and complications are rare. That said, as with any procedure, there is the possibility of some potential risks. These include:
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Redness, Swelling, and Itching. Post-treatment, it is normal for the skin to be red and warm for a day or two. In some cases, however, this is accompanied by itchiness and swelling. In rare cases, this can last for several months. If you experience any lingering irritation, please consult with a doctor and inform your Aesthetician.
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Infection. Fractional Laser Resurfacing can sometimes lead to infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal), such as a herpes virus flare-up in those that are carriers. Typically, these bodily responses are found in individuals with previous occurrences. Inform your Technician if applicable.
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Changes in Skin Colour. Fractional Laser Resurfacing can cause "hyperpigmentation" (skin darkening or increased pigmentation), or "hypopigmentation" (skin lightening or loss of pigmentation). These issues may be treated with topical products or further laser treatments and your pre-treatment consultation will include a Skin Type Analysis to minimize such unwanted effects.
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Scarring. Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing treatments also pose a slight risk of scarring. We will review your risk level during your consultation and advise you accordingly.
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Ultimately, transparency with your Laser Aesthetician is absolutely essential. Remember, she wants to achieve the best results possible for your skin from your treatment program. Excessive and unprotected sun exposure, cigarette smoking, being prone to particular infections or reactions, certain products, and some medications can play a role in your plan and she will advise as applicable.
Pricing is Discussed during Consultation.