Fractional CO₂ laser skin resurfacing is a new treatment for pigmentation, wrinkles, scars and sagging skin using fractional technology to reduce downtime while impacting the skin sufficiently to produce noticeable results after 1 or 2 treatments. Each procedure involves treating only a fraction of the skin’s surface, leaving untouched skin to aid in the regeneration process. UltraPulse, the gold standard of CO₂ lasers, is used to deliver a variety of low downtime treatments that can be customized for all patients as they want the low downtime and safety of non-ablative treatment with results that are closer to traditional resurfacing.

How does it work?

The CO₂ laser generates heat in the deeper dermis and this heat is needed to stimulate new collagen production. A computer-controlled scanner produces precise zones of laser coagulation in the skin. The nature of the laser beam minimizes the damage to the surrounding tissue so that the patient heals sooner. At the same time, fractional technology leaves bridges of healthy tissue intact between the laser beams to accelerate tissue healing. The fractional CO₂ laser device can be tuned to target the superficial layers of the skin with lower energy settings resulting in the improvement of pigmentation, fine lines, mild scarring and skin texture. Laser energy levels can be adjusted to target deep collagen re-modelling to impact deeper wrinkles and scars and to achieve skin tightening. Patient discomfort is kept to a minimum and topical anaesthesia is usually all that is needed.

How long is the downtime?

The procedure is highly tolerable with most patients describing the sensation during and after treatment as “hot”. The heat and soreness last for between 1 to 3 hours after the procedure during which the skin appears bright pink. The patient may appear “sunburnt” for about 2 days after which tiny brown crusts are seen on the treated areas. These crusts eventually detach and the skin is crust-free after about 5-7 days. Post-operative care is simple. The use of an emollient is encouraged and avoidance of sun-exposure during the healing phase is essential.

What kind of results can I expect?

The immediate results often seen after the skin heals include brighter and more radiant skin from a more even skin tone and improved skin texture. One can expect continued collagen re-modelling over the next few months producing improvement in deep wrinkles and scars. Skin tightening is another delightful “late” result of the treatment. Side effects or risks are minimal with this type of treatment and typically involve swelling and redness. There is a very limited risk of infection or scarring.

Is the treatment painful?

Depending on the area of your body treated and the type of device used, the procedure is said to be well tolerated; feeling like a mild prickling or burning sensation, or like elastic bands flicking on the skin. However, your practitioner may apply a topical anaesthetic to your skin prior to treatment to reduce any pain and discomfort, and offer you a chilled air device to hold over the treatment area yourself.

What happens after treatment?

• Women can camouflage skin redness with make-up straight away if desired.
• Apply a hypoallergenic moisturiser which can help mask any bronzing and skin flaking symptoms.
• Avoid creams with active ingredients such as AHAs or Retinoids which irritate the skin and could impede the healing process.
• Do not sleep on the treated area, to help avoid any swelling; e.g., sleep on your back rather than your side if your face has been treated.
• Cool compresses (not ice packs) or cooling gels such as aloe vera can be applied to the treated area if required.
• Avoid sun exposure during treatment and healing phases and/or wear sunscreens with an SPF of 30+ which contain zinc oxide.