People looking for younger skin with natural results and no downtime should consider CO2 laser-resurfacing. Patients will feel some redness after CO2 laser resurfacing, but not as much as with more powerful lasers. Although it may become more severe, it will soon disappear. Patients should avoid sunburns and excessive tanning for at most four weeks prior to their procedure. They should avoid all medications that could make them more sensitive to sunlight.
Fractional laser resurfacing
Fractional laser resurfacing uses lasers to treat specific areas. This is a great technique to reduce scarring, fine lines and pigmentation. It can also be used to treat precancerous lesions and sun spots. It is a good idea to consult with a dermatologist prior to undergoing the procedure.
Fractional CO2 laser treatment is less invasive and requires one to two treatments. However, the recovery process is more complicated than with traditional CO2 Laser treatments. The procedure is usually completed within a week. Patients are encouraged to avoid tanning for a few weeks before the procedure to avoid increased discomfort during the recovery period.
Downtime
Recovery from a CO2 laser procedure can take weeks or even months, depending on the area of the body being treated. Some patients experience redness, which can last from one to four months. Redness can be due to an underlying medical condition, the treatment used by the laser provider or a combination of both. You can reduce the redness by using topical ascorbic acids or applying hypoallergenic makeup.
A fractional CO2 Laser treatment usually takes less than a week to recover, while more intense treatments may take seven days. The number of treatments and patient's tolerance for downtime are also factors that affect recovery times. If the patient is able to handle the downtime, they may only require one or a few treatments.
Side effects
Side effects of CO2 laser treatment can be temporary and mild. Some patients report redness in the treatment area that lasts anywhere from one to four weeks. This reaction may be due to an underlying health condition or the technique used by the laser provider. You should use antihistamines and steroids in such instances. Also, avoid using harsh treatments to your skin. You can also use hypoallergenic makeup to cover up the redness. The recovery time for CO2 laser treatment may take longer than other laser treatments.
Pain following CO2 laser treatment depends on how deep and extensive the treatment is, the skill and tolerance of the surgeon, and the patient's level of pain tolerance. Your doctor may combine sedatives and local painkillers if extensive resurfacing is required. Some cases may require general anesthesia, which allows you to stay asleep during the entire procedure. You'll need to wear special eyewear in order to protect your eyes from damage caused by the laser.
Aftercare
CO2 laser resurfacing uses a laser beam with high intensity that heats the dermal layer and removes the skin's top layer. Red, swollen and itchy skin may result from the procedure. Patients should expect to take at least two weeks off work after the procedure. Patients should not use makeup or other harsh cosmetics. Sunscreen is essential.
Patients will need to rest for several days after the procedure. This will allow the skin time to heal. To ease pain, the physician will apply a local anesthetic to the affected area. You may also be administered an injection of anesthetic by the physician to alleviate any discomfort. Patients will be required to take the prescribed medications as directed. They should also expect to experience significant downtime in social settings for up to five to ten days. Avoid prolonged sun exposure for patients as it can weaken skin tissues.