CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing - Get the Facts

Laser skin resurfacing has not actually been around that long, but in that time it has been used as a cosmetic improvement tool it has rapidly advanced in its skill level. Today’s CO2 fractional laser is an example of one of the tools on the cutting edge of technology. It can be used to treat acne scars, wrinkles and fine lines without the need for sedation as other lasers may require. Since co2 fractional laser use began in 1995 it has been considered the gold standard for non surgical cosmetic procedures.

The CO2 fractional laser is also known as the carbon dioxide laser and it works by removing the outer layers of skin with bursts of light from the laser. The procedure can last just a few minutes or up to an hour and a half depending on the client’s needs. This can be done as an out patient procedure in either the hospital or the plastic surgeon's own surgical center. The down time after the procedure is about a week and your face basically just looks like you are recovering from a really bad sunburn. During this period of time the outer layer of skin peels and flakes off. The good news is once your skin heals the new skin looks remarkably younger and smoother.

The preparation you will likely undergo before surgery will involve using special lotions, gels or cream on your face for a week or two and taking a regimen of oral anti-viral medications to protect you against the possibility of awakening a dormant viral infection. These infections are one of the risk factors associated with any laser resurfacing but with the proper care before your procedure the risk is minimized.

Co2 fractional laser resurfacing is recommended for people who have darker skin pigmentation. Normally darker complexion does not respond well to lasers because it can take six to nine months to regain normal pigmentation after a laser procedure. However, CO2 fractional lasers have shown positive results with the darker pigmentation than traditional lasers.

The use of lasers for skin resurfacing is one of the faster growing areas of cosmetic treatments. In 2008 there were 103,394 clients who underwent the CO2 fractional laser procedure and as the technique grows in popularity those numbers are likely to increase. The use of the laser procedure is more popular with patients because the recovery time is dramatically shorter than traditional laser treatments and the risk of complications is greatly reduced.

If you are considering having your skin resurfaced with the use of laser treatments you should consult your plastic surgeon and find out more about this procedure, including the benefits and risks. Make the determination if CO2 fractional laser resurfacing is a good fit for you.