CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

Using advanced laser technology, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for skin resurfacing precisely removes outer layers of damaged skin to reveal the underlying skin which is softer, smoother, and younger looking. CO2 and erbium laser technologies are the two most commonly used laser skin resurfacing treatment options. The CO2 laser is used in the treatment of deeper facial lines and wrinkles, while the erbium laser is used for fine lines to moderately deep wrinkles.

How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?

A CO2 laser allows your cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist to perform skin resurfacing procedures that reduce or eliminate more pronounced lines and wrinkles than similar treatments. This is done by removing deeper layers of damaged skin and stimulating the regeneration of healthy skin underneath.

The latest technological advancement in the field of laser resurfacing is the use of light beams that are either pulsed or scattered at a very high rate. This minimizes heat damage that the skin might otherwise be exposed to. It also allows a more powerful CO2 laser to be utilized for deeper tissue removal and for more effective removal of pronounced wrinkles and creases. This technology allows the laser skin resurfacing treatment to provide some of the most dramatic, age-defying results possible.

The procedure can be performed on specific areas — such as around the mouth or eyes — or over the surface of the entire face. During a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment, a local anesthetic (injection at the treatment site) is used to relieve potential discomfort. If the entire face is being treated, intravenous or general anesthesia may be used.

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Candidates

As we age, our skin succumbs to the effects of sun, gravity, and even our unique facial movements, to create lines and wrinkles that make us look older than we feel. A good candidate for carbon dioxide (CO2) laser skin resurfacing is typically an individual who has developed significant facial lines and wrinkling. A candidate may also have facial scars or uneven pigmentation they wish to correct. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is to speak with a qualified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist in your area.

Benefits of CO2 Laser Skin Treatment

By precisely removing damaged skin layer by layer, a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is able to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, “turning back the clock” on your complexion and revealing the more youthful looking skin that lies underneath. The CO2 laser — when used for the skin resurfacing procedure — can also lessen the appearance of scars and many other skin imperfections. Benefits include not only the effective correction of moderate to deep lines and wrinkles, but also treatment for uneven pigmentation, photodamage, precancerous spots, and a host of other skin imperfections and benign lesions. If you believe you may be a candidate for CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment, a qualified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist can carefully analyze your skin and determine if the procedure is right for you.

CO2 Lasers vs. Erbium Lasers

When deciding on either the carbon dioxide (CO2) or erbium laser skin resurfacing treatment, it is important to discuss with your cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist the goals and expectations you have for surgery. While the CO2 laser successfully provides a more thorough treatment for moderate to deep facial lines and wrinkles, it does require a more extensive recovery period. Recovery time for treatment with the CO2 laser is typically two weeks; the erbium laser requires a recovery of only about one week. For many patients, this extra recovery time is a small price to pay for successfully treating their damaged skin and providing them with a younger, more vibrant appearance. However, others who have less severe facial lines and wrinkles will want to explore their treatment options with the erbium laser.

Is CO2 Laser Treatment Safe?

Yes, with the guidance of a skilled cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist, a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is perfectly safe. With the predictability of the CO2 laser, skin can be precisely ablated layer by layer to provide incredibly safe results with minimal side-effects. A responsible cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist will discuss possible CO2 laser skin resurfacing complications and how they can be avoided during your recovery.

Find a Laser Specialist in Your Area

Finding a specialist in your area to perform a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment has never been easier. DocShop will help empower you in your search for medical professionals, directing you to informative websites where you can first view the credentials, specializations, and other unique qualities of cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists in your area.