Fractional CO2 laser
The fractional CO2 laser is great if you want to do something about your ageing skin. The CO2 laser is actively deployed to reduce wrinkles, make the skin texture more even, tighten the skin, and reduce pore size. The CO2 laser treatment is non-invasive (no skin penetration) and gives you a radiant, fresh and younger appearance.
The skin improvement effect of CO2 laser
The CO2 laser emits beams of light at a wavelength of 10,600 nanometres, and interacts with the water in your skin. The CO2 laser generates power in pulses, which evaporate the water in your skin and create a grid with tiny little tunnels. This sophisticated resurfacing technology does not cause any thermal damage. The surrounding healthy tissue kick-starts the rejuvenation process.
The process
The CO2 laser beam penetrates deep into the dermis, the ‘leather’ of your skin. It activates the fibroblasts and stimulates the production of new collagen. The healthy tissue is so strong that it helps repair and firm up the damaged tissue.
The technology has improved over the years; in the past, the entire epidermis was burnt away; nowadays, only a fraction of the skin is affected. The result: a beautiful, smooth and radiant skin!
When is the CO2 laser used?
The CO2 laser is suitable for anyone who wants to realise skin improvement. The structure of the skin is improved, making it look and feel healthier. That is why the CO2 laser is used a lot for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, fading scarring and removing benign skin growths such as warts. Moreover, the CO2 laser is particularly suitable for skin rejuvenation and skin improvement of your face, decolleté or hands.
Indications for fractional CO2 laser:
- Pigmentation
- Acne scarring and surgical scars
- Large pores
- Light and sun-damaged skin
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sagging skin
- Stretch marks or striae gravidarum
- Skin irregularities
- Sagging skin on the knees and upper arms
The effect of the CO2 laser
Treatment with the CO2 laser gives few complications and is therefore safe and effective. The results are visible soon after the treatment and the recovery time is relatively short.
Treatments
The CO2 laser is an intensive treatment, and requires between 1 and 3 sessions to achieve the best possible result. Your doctor will give you detailed information.
After the treatment
The duration of the treatment depends on the area that you want to treat. Immediately after the treatment, your skin will be red and swollen. This sensation can last up to 45 minutes.
Your skin may feel as if it has been burnt, and it will form little scabs. These scabs will fall off after a few days; from that point, your skin will renew itself.
On average, your skin will be completely healed in 1 to 2 weeks. The collagen and elastin in your skin will continue to be active between 3 and 6 months after the treatment.
Maintenance session
It is recommended to have a maintenance session once every year; that way, you will keep the optimum result.