What is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing reduces facial wrinkles, scars, and blemishes using short, concentrated light beams that remove damaged skin cells one layer at a time. As the laser removes the superficial layers of skin, the heat triggers collagen production in the deeper layers of skin underneath. Partial CO2 laser facials typically take 30-45 minutes, while full resurfacing treatment takes 90 minutes to two hours.
The treatment is fully customized to your needs, your skin’s condition, and your personal goals. Rejuvenessence offers CO2 laser treatments using the SmartXide Tetra CO2 laser. This state-of-the-art device provides two settings: the DEKA Peel and CoolPeel®.
The DEKA Peel provides a deeper level of resurfacing for full skin rejuvenation. The CoolPeel®, on the other hand, is a gentler alternative that requires minimal downtime. The CoolPeel® delivers short pulses of laser light that target surface skin cells without causing thermal damage to surrounding tissues. The different modes are easily adjustable to different depths for all skin types.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing Benefits
Laser skin resurfacing with the SmartXide Tetra laser provides a non-surgical solution to various skin and aging concerns. Some of the benefits of laser skin resurfacing include:
Smooth Skin
Laser skin resurfacing targets irregularities in the skin by removing the superficial layers. As your skin heals in the days following treatment, the newer layers are comprised of fresh skin cells that are free of damage, resulting in a smoother, brighter complexion.
Improve Signs of Aging
Collagen is an important protein responsible for the structure of the skin. As we age, our collagen production declines, resulting in skin sagging and wrinkles formation. Laser skin resurfacing boosts collagen production to minimize wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging.
Lighten Scars and Spots
Laser skin resurfacing can treat acne scars, sun damage, melasma, and other skin conditions. By removing the damaged skin cells, newer skin grows in its place to improve your skin’s texture and appearance.
Improve Skin Tone
Another benefit of laser skin resurfacing is the new skin cells tend to have a more uniform tone. Whether you have pigmentation concerns from sun damage, melasma, or simply uneven coloration, you’ll see improvement in your skin’s tone after CO2 laser treatment.
What Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Feel Like?
Laser skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure that takes approximately 30 minutes for partial facials and up to 90 minutes hours for a full facial. One of our health practitioners at Rejuvenessence numbs your skin in the target area. After the numbing sets in, our practitioner moves the laser over the skin to begin the resurfacing.
Most patients describe laser skin resurfacing sensations as similar to a pins and needles sensation against the skin. Local anesthesia or a sedative may be added anytime for your comfort.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing Results and Recovery
You should notice improvements in your skin’s overall tone and texture within a week following treatment. Younger, brighter skin will begin to show within a few days, continually improving over the next six months as your skin produces new collagen.
Recovery from the treatment usually takes around three days, making a perfect weekend appointment. You may experience some redness, peeling, and swelling for a few days as your skin heals. You may need to clean treated areas four to five times daily and apply petroleum jelly to prevent scabbing and aid healing.
We recommend avoiding direct sunlight since your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. If you stay in the sun for long periods, it may result in discoloration and unintended pigmentation. We recommend wearing sunscreen if you go outside and remaining in the shade.
Ideal Candidates for CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Anyone wanting to improve their skin’s tone and texture can benefit from CO2 laser resurfacing. Ideal candidates have realistic expectations and want to improve acne scarring, sun damage, skin tone, or other cosmetic skin concerns.
You might not be a good candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing if you have active acne or a history of keloids. If CO2 laser resurfacing treatments are not right for you, you may be a good candidate for other treatments at Rejuvenessence, such as deep chemical peels or Morpheus8 laser.
Take the Next Step
Request a ConsultationInterested in improving your aesthetics and health with CO2 laser resurfacing? Contact Rejuvenessence at (609) 365-7550 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation today!
You can also reach our staff during office hours by calling (609) 365-7550. Rejuvenessence proudly serves Toms River, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Ocean County, South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. We look forward to hearing from you!
