Now that the summer has come to a close, patients and aesthetic providers everywhere are excited for fall…also known as the season of aggressive skin treatments. Whether you’re looking to address fine lines, sun damage, or stubborn spots, we’ve got just the solution to help you achieve glowing, healthier skin.
But before starting an intensive treatment, it’s important to prepare your skin. A good skincare routine should include daily SPF, retinol, antioxidants, and pigmentation treatments if needed. With these basics in place, your skin will be ready for the benefits of CO2 laser treatment!
In this blog, we’ll explain what CO2 treatment is, how it works, its benefits, and any risks to consider. Keep reading to learn how CO2 can transform your skin for a healthy, glowing complexion this fall.
What is a CO2 laser?
A CO2 laser resurfacing (or Carbon Dioxide laser resurfacing) is a powerful tool in the world of dermatology and aesthetics. It uses carbon dioxide to create a focused beam of light that penetrates the skin to promote healing, collagen production, and skin renewal. This technology has been trusted for years to address a variety of skin concerns, from acne scars and wrinkles to sun damage and uneven pigmentation.
How does CO2 laser work?
The CO2 laser uses fractional technology to target thin layers of skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact, which helps promote faster healing process. The laser energy heats and vaporizes the outer layers of skin, allowing new, healthier skin to grow in its place. This procedure also stimulates the underlying layers to produce more collagen, which improves skin elasticity and firmness over time.
Benefits of CO2 Laser
CO2 laser treatment is versatile and offers a host of benefits:
- Effective Treatment for Aging: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improves Skin Texture: Smoothens uneven skin texture and promotes a more youthful complexion.
- Scar Reduction: Helps in fading acne scars and other types of scarring.
- Sun Damage Repair: Diminishes sunspots, age spots, and other pigmentation issues.
- Long-Lasting Results: Stimulates collagen production, offering lasting improvements in skin quality.
Pros and Cons of CO2 Treatment
Like any other treatment, CO2 laser resurfacing has its advantages and considerations. Here’s a quick look at both sides:
Pros:
- Visible, long-lasting results: Enjoy smoother, youthful skin for months or even years.
- Addresses multiple skin concerns: Effective for wrinkles, sun exposure damage, acne scars, sagging skin and uneven texture.
- Tailored to your skin: Customizable to suit your unique needs and concerns.
Cons:
- Downtime: Recovery takes 5-10 days, with possible redness, swelling, and peeling of the treated area.
- Pigmentation risks: Not recommended for all skin types and tones due to the risk of discoloration. Results are better with patients with lighter skin tones and with skin discoloration.
- Cost: The treatment can be expensive, depending on the area and provider.
- Temporary discomfort: Mild pain or irritation during and after the procedure is common, but manageable.
How much is the CO2 laser?
The cost of a CO2 fractional laser resurfacing treatment can vary based on factors such as the treatment area, the provider’s expertise, and your location. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 to $3,000 per session. For the most accurate pricing, a consultation is recommended.
CO2 Treatment FAQS
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients typically see noticeable results after just one CO2 laser treatment. However, some individuals may benefit from follow-up sessions to achieve even more dramatic improvements, especially for deeper wrinkles or more severe skin issues.
Is CO2 laser treatment painful?
While the treatment itself may cause some discomfort, it is generally well-tolerated. A topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure to minimize pain. You may feel a warm or tingling sensation during the treatment, but it is not typically considered painful.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery time varies based on the depth of the treatment, but typically, patients can expect anywhere from 5 to 14 days of recovery. During this period, you may experience redness, swelling, and peeling as your skin heals and rejuvenates. Avoid sun exposure for faster recovery.
Can CO2 lasers treat deep wrinkles?
Yes! CO2 lasers are particularly effective at treating deep wrinkles and fine lines. The laser targets deeper layers of skin, stimulating collagen production to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time.
Are results permanent?
While this laser skin resurfacing treatment offers long-lasting results, it is not permanent. Over time, the skin continues to age, but the improvement in texture and tone can last several years. To maintain results, regular skincare, sun protection, and occasional follow-up treatments may be recommended.
Can you combine CO2 treatment with other surgical procedures?
Yes, CO2 laser treatments can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as botox, dermal fillers, or chemical peels, for enhanced results. However, it’s essential to discuss your options with a qualified professional like Dr. Diehl to create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs.
Book your CO2 Treatment with Dr. Diehl
Ready for smoother, more youthful skin? Book your CO2 laser treatment with Dr. Diehl today and take the first step towards skin rejuvenating your complexion. Dr. Diehl will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin needs, ensuring the best possible results. With the latest CO2 laser technology and expert post-treatment care, you’ll enjoy a safe, effective procedure and a glowing, refreshed look.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Diehl and discover how this treatment can help you achieve radiant, rejuvenated skin.
