Korean Fractional Laser CO2: Skin Resurfacing
Our clinic offers Fractional CO2 laser treatments, designed to revitalize your skin and address a wide range of dermatological concerns such as acne and postoperative scars with precision and efficiency. Dr. Lucas uses a CO2 laser from Daeju, a well-known Korean brand.
Technology
Fractional Laser CO2 technology employs a high-energy beam of light that penetrates the skin in a fractionated manner, creating microscopic columns of treated tissue. The CO2 laser with rejuvenation parameters can correct fine lines, improve skin texture, hydration, and elasticity by stimulating collagen and elastin secretion. The CO2 laser with scar parameters can attenuate acne scars and hypertrophic scars by regulating collagen and elastin secretion, which is often deficient in atrophic acne scars and excessive in hypertrophic scars.
Treated Areas and Main Indications
Fractional Laser CO2 is highly effective for treating:
- Deep wrinkles and fine lines
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Vaginal tightening
Conclusion
Fractional Laser CO2 represents a breakthrough in skin resurfacing, offering dramatic improvements with relatively short recovery periods. Experience the rejuvenating power of Fractional CO2 at our clinic and achieve the skin you’ve always desired.
Results
We can start to see the effects at 2-3 weeks, but to get a significant effect we must wait 6-8 weeks:
- Significant reduction in deep wrinkles and fine lines
- Improved appearance of acne scars
- Lightened postoperative scars
- Enhanced overall skin radiance
Results continue to improve over the following months as collagen remodeling occurs.
Contraindications
Fractional Laser CO2 may not be suitable for individuals with:
- Active skin infections or open wounds
- Severe chronic skin conditions
- Recent use of isotretinoin (within the last 6 months)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- History of keloid scarring
- Photosensitizing medication
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment preparation includes:
- Avoiding sun exposure and tanning for at least 3 weeks prior
- Discontinuing use of retinoids or other skin-sensitizing products 1 week before
- Stopping any medications that may increase bleeding risk, as instructed by your provider
- Stopping smoking at least 3 weeks before the session (smoking decreases the micro-vascularization of the tissues and compromises post-laser healing and collagen creation)
- Starting anti-herpetic treatment 1 day before the session and continuing for 4 days after (if there is a history of herpes labialis, even old)
Procedure
The Fractional CO2 procedure involves:
- Cleansing the treatment area
- Applying a topical or local anesthetic to ensure comfort
- Using the Fractional CO2 laser to deliver targeted energy to the skin
- The session typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment area
After Treatment
Post-treatment care includes:
- Avoiding sun exposure and using high-SPF sunscreen for 4 weeks
- Following a gentle skincare routine
- Keeping the treated area moisturized and protected
- Expecting redness, swelling, and potential peeling and scabs for 3 to 5 days
In the minutes following the fractional CO2 laser treatment, the skin is covered with a thin whitish film reproducing the layout of the fractional impacts. In the hours following the session, you will experience a sensation of intense heat. You can start applying Cicalfate cream or Vaseline several times per day. The skin will then look like a sunburn: redness, heat, and swelling. After 2-3 days, the skin will become slightly brown with small blisters or scabs that should not be scratched. It is important to spray with thermal water several times a day to limit discomfort.
Hydrating creams should be applied frequently until epithelialization (3-7 days), and then it is important to keep the skin well hydrated for 2-3 weeks after the laser session. In the 3 to 4 days following the fractional laser treatment, the skin peels similarly to a sunburn. On the 5th or 6th day, it is usually possible to wear makeup.
Total sun avoidance until epithelialization and the application of a sunblock cream (index >50) for 4 weeks after the laser treatment are imperative. Showering is possible from the next day, but it is better to avoid wetting the lasered area for 2-3 days and to dry it without rubbing with a clean towel for 3-5 days.
Complications
While Fractional Laser CO2 is generally safe, potential complications can include:
- Temporary redness and swelling
- Mild to moderate peeling and crusting
- Infection or delayed wound healing (rare)
- Changes in skin pigmentation
Treatments That Can Be Combined With Fractional CO2
To enhance results, Fractional CO2 treatments can be combined with:
- Exosomes: Exosomes can be applied on the treated area to reduce the downtime and multiply the effect of the CO2 laser.
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy
