Smartskin CO2 Laser Resurfacing
We are very excited to offer Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing, which can improve wrinkles, fine lines, scars, tone and texture without the long downtime and risks of traditional CO2 resurfacing.
We utilize the SmartSkin Fractional CO2 workstation, which is considered the most advanced micro-ablative CO2 system currently available. Unlike other systems that have ‘one-size-fits-all’ settings, SmartSkin provides completely customizable treatment parameters to match your cosmetic goals and downtime requirements. In other words, you can choose to have a “mild” treatment or an “aggressive” treatment.
The SmartSkin Fractional CO2 Laser can treat the following skin conditions:
- Wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage
- Age spots and sun spots
- Textural irregularities
- Surgical and acne scars
How does the SmartSkin Fractional CO2 Laser System work?
The SmartSkin Fractional CO2 Laser System delivers a series of tiny microscopic laser beams to the skin. This fractionated energy removes multiple microscopic columns of skin, while leaving the skin surrounding each column intact to aid in healing. Old and damaged skin cells are destroyed and the body’s natural healing process then builds new healthy cells to take their place. The laser also stimulates the production of new collagen deep within your skin, which will gradually give you a more youthful appearance over time.
What areas can be treated?
We can target certain areas such as around the eyes or around the mouth, or you can choose to have your entire face treated. Other common areas include the neck, chest, and hands.
How many treatments will I need?
Typically, only one “aggressive” treatment is needed for desired results (A second treatments may be needed if your condition is more severe.) However, since the treatments can be adjusted to your cosmetic and downtime needs, you can also opt for two or three “lighter” treatments. We can help you determine which course of treatment will work best for you and your individual needs during your consultation.
What does the procedure feel like?
We apply a topical numbing anesthetic to your skin prior to the procedure. Oral pain medication and sedative can also be provided to help reduce discomfort during your treatment. The procedure takes approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the areas to be treated. Many patients describe the treatments to being snapped with a rubber band combined with heat.
What should I expect immediately following treatment?
Immediately after the treatment, your skin will feel warm and appear to be sunburned. You may experience pinpoint bleeding and swelling for the next few days. Your skin will peel and feel rough as the old and damaged skin is destroyed and eliminated. Recovery can be as mild as some redness for a few days to several days of peeling and redness depending on the treatment settings. Make-up can usually be applied after 5 days.
When can I resume my daily activities?
Treatments are adjustable so downtime will depend on the treatment you receive. For milder treatments, some patients can return to work in 2-3 days. For more aggressive treatments, you should expect a downtime period of 1 week.
When will I see the results of the fractional CO2 treatment?
Visible results from fractional CO2 laser treatments can vary. There are essentially two stages of results: immediate and long-term. Immediately after your first laser treatment your skin will feel smoother, look brighter and the tone will become more even at 1 week. However, you will see the most benefit over the next 6 months as your skin continues to produce more and more collagen.
How long will the results last?
With proper skin care, sun protection and maintenance, results often last years. We provide complimentary SkinMedica TNS Growth Factor Serum to enhance collagen production and medical-grade sunscreen.
What are the risks?
Treatments are generally well tolerated and during your consultation, we will explain any potential risks (infection, scarring, pain) and help you minimize them based on your complete medical and skin history.
