How Do CO2 Lasers Differ From Other Laser Treatments?

Though most people experience acne or other skin conditions in their lives, there are some for whom acne and other blemishes can be extremely severe, and take away from their happiness, health, and self esteem. Even for those who no longer suffer from acne, it can leave lasting scars.

Laser skin treatments can work wonders when it comes to skin resurfacing. Laser treatments remove the outer layer of damaged skin in a way similar to a chemical peel, resulting in clearer, fresher, and younger looking skin.

Good candidates for laser resurfacing include those who want to minimize the look of:

• Acne, or acne scars
• Fine lines, and mild to moderate wrinkles
• Uneven pigmentation
• Facial scars
• Other blemishes.

The two most commonly used lasers in skin resurfacing are CO2 and Erbium.

A CO2 laser is a carbon dioxide laser used in skin resurfacing. It can be used fractionally (on a confined part of the skin) or on a larger area. The CO2 laser sends pulses of energy, controlled by your doctor, in order to vaporize damaged skin. CO2 laser treatments reduce the look of wrinkles, age spots and blemishes, as well as tightening skin and encouraging collagen production.

An Erbium laser works more on the surface level to reduce the appearance of mild to moderate wrinkles. Since it doesn’t penetrate as deeply as the CO2 laser, recovery time, and side effects such as redness and swelling, are lessened.

At Fairview Cosmetic Surgery, we employ the latest in laser technology, including CO2 lasers. CO2 lasers provide the deepest, most lasting results when it comes to skin resurfacing. A CO2 laser can accomplish satisfying results in just one visit, with one to two weeks of downtime after the procedure.

We use both a fractionated, and non-fractionated CO2 laser treatment, depending on the patient’s needs.

A fractionated treatment micro-drills into the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, mild to moderate wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks. A non-fractionated treatment treats the entire top layer of skin simultaneously, resulting in all-over smoother and more youthful looking skin.

CO2 treatment takes place in the surgeon’s office, and requires pre-and postoperative treatment. The procedure is usually done using a topical or injectable local anaesthetic.

Having beautiful, youthful skin can give you self-confidence and happiness that can improve all aspects of your life, from the personal to the professional! While CO2 laser treatment does require recovery time, the lasting results are worth it.

Alternatives to laser treatments include facial peels. At Fairview, we offer a variety of facial chemical peels for all skin types, in addition to a range of laser treatments.

You deserve to feel great in your own skin. Contact us today for a consultation.