CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing London Clinic
Fractional Carbon Dioxide (CO2) laser skin resurfacing treatment is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that involves removing or correcting a wide range of superficial skin imperfections by utilising an ultra-pulsed carbon dioxide beam.
The beam of light emitted by the laser hits only very precise points to vaporise the top layerof the skin. This process induces a tissue regeneration or “skin resurfacing” process thus reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes and firming the skin overall with the production of elastin and collagen.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing, also known as Photothermolysis, (the technique used to ablate tissue in targeted regions) is carried out with an ultra-pulsed CO2 laser and can be applied to the whole face (full face resurfacing) or specific skin issues:
- Acne or other scars
- Keratosis
- Age spots
- Sunspots
- Pigmentation
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines and wrinkles on the face
- Neck wrinkles
- Hand rejuvenation
Please note: there are some specific cases in which it is not recommended to use this technique because changes in the pigmentation of the skin could form.
- People with a dark complexion.
- People who have taken anti-acne medication
- People with active skin infections (bacterial or viral)
A CO2 Laser Treatment lasts between 10 and 30 minutes depending on the area to be treated and the needs of the patient. You can expect some discomfort during the treatment, but ananaesthetic cream is applied beforehand to alleviate any discomfort.
There is minimal downtime with a CO2 Laser treatment and you can expect to return to normal social activities after about 3-4 days. After the treatment, the skin will appear red for about a day and may appear dry in the following few days and it is
recommended to use a suitable moisturiser in the affected areas. It is also important to avoid exposure to the sun for at least 2 weeks before and after the treatment. Results can be appreciated 1 or 2 months after the first session when the skin has had time to renew itself and increase collagen production.
The number of sessions can vary depending on the skin issues of each patient, generally, it is recommended to perform at least 3 to 5 sessions, which must be performed roughly 1 monthapart.