There are many new laser procedures that can fix various skin issues. One of these is Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy. This is a relatively new technique that is meant to repair skin damage due to sun exposure and age. Over time and with exposure to the sun and pollutants in the atmosphere, the skin’s collagen breaks down. What the laser essentially does is rebuild the collagen.
This laser therapy is meant for people who want to tighten their skin and remove fine lines, wrinkles, and creases. People who want more even pigmentation of their skin can also benefit. This can be accomplished within two or three sessions, each within just a few days of the next.
The similarities & differences between Fractional CO2 and Traditional CO2 Lasers
This procedure is seen in many ways to be preferable to traditional CO2 lasers. There are far fewer complications, and this procedure is considered to be significantly safer. There is also much less downtime, minimal recovery time, and the procedure itself is much simpler, only taking about 15 minute’s total. Additionally, there is no need for heavy anesthesia; all that is needed is a topical cream and a cooling fan.
Recovering from fractional CO2 procedures performed in Orange County
The recovery from this procedure is quite simple. The patient should keep his or her skin moist; the Orange County cosmetic dermatologist who conducts the procedure may accomplish this using ointment or surgical bandages. Common side effects that one can expect are:
- pinkness or redness of the skin
- a thin crust on the skin
- and swelling for up to a couple of days.
The dermatologist will provide very detailed directions on how to take care of the skin in the time following the treatment. It is also crucial that the patient avoids sunlight immediately after the procedure and even after complete recovery use sunscreen that is at least SPF 30.
The patient should avoid using makeup on the face for three to four days, and in most cases a full recovery can be expected within seven to ten days of the procedure.