Fractional carbon dioxide lasers go beyond the abilities of other laser treatments to improve the skin’s texture. Dermatologists in Orange County utilize this technology because it emits longer wavelengths, allowing it to penetrate deep into the skin. In turn, the light scatters into small shafts and replace damaged skin with new skin. The heat produced by fractional CO2 lasers also shrinks collagen, which tightens the skin.
Candidates for Fractional CO2 Laser Treatments
Ideal candidates for fractional CO2 laser treatments are patients who range in age from 40 years old to 70 years old. This technology is well-suited for to treat those who have moderate or deep wrinkles, significant sun damage, severe acne, blotchy skin and scars on the arms, chest, legs and neck. Fractional CO2 lasers can even safely treat damage to darker skin. Those who have precancerous growths or lines around the mouth and eyes also benefit from this type of laser therapy. A board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Tony Nakhla can improve most of these conditions in one or two rounds of treatment.
People who take certain anticoagulants, chemotherapy, isotretinoin and certain photosensitizing medications should not receive fractional CO2 resurfacing. Additionally, patients who have a history of scarring, healing difficulties or bleeding disorders are not good candidates for this type of laser therapy. Pregnant women should not receive fractional CO2 treatments.
Recovery and Downtime
Patients may feel like the affected skin is sunburned the first day after a fractional CO2 treatment. For two to seven days, the skin will peel. Afterward, the pinkness of the skin will last from three to six weeks, but patients can mask this sign of healing with makeup one week after treatment. In the rare event that bruising occurs, the bruises will fade in two weeks. Patients who receive fractional CO2 treatment on the eyelids should expect to have redness and swelling from two to four days. The total recovery time for facial, neck and chest treatments lasts up to four weeks. The arms and legs may take longer to heal.
Results From Fractional CO2 Treatments
Although some improvement is immediately noticeable, patients will experience the full results anywhere from three to six months. During the first six weeks, the skin will appear smoother. After the pinkness subsides, patients’ skin will have fewer lines and a healthy glow. Those who are vigilant about wearing sunscreen and taking care of their general health can expect these results to last for several years.