CO2 fractional laser resurfacing is the gold standard for non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments. This procedure is renowned for its ability to target even deep wrinkles or scars and create a rejuvenated complexion.
CO2 fractional resurfacing uses short pulses of laser light to penetrate the skin's surface. The water in your skin cells absorbs the laser energy, causing the outer layer of the skin to vaporize. As your skin heals, old layers are replaced with new, smoother skin. This process helps to stimulate collagen production in the middle dermis layer, resulting in firmer, more radiant skin.
This procedure is ablative, which means the treatment is more aggressive than non-ablative types of lasers that heat, rather than vaporize skin cells. However, this ablation produces dramatic effects and visible skin improvements.
CO2 fractional laser resurfacing is incredibly effective but isn’t for everyone. That’s why Dr. Kuzel starts with a consultation to examine your skin and discuss your aesthetic goals and the treatment and recovery process. As with nearly any procedure, there are risks associated with laser treatments. To avoid any unnecessary side effects and to maximize results, it’s important to seek out a care provider with extensive experience in laser resurfacing and in-depth knowledge of skin type and structure.
As an experienced dermatologist, Dr. Kuzel understands the nuances of different skin types and can ensure a safe treatment for exceptional, long-lasting results.
This treatment uses microscopic, deeply penetrating laser beams to produce a type of heat injury at the cellular level and stimulate the body to produce new, healthier collagen in the skin. The areas around the treated skin remain unaffected, which helps the skin recover.
First, Dr. Kuzel and his team will numb the treatment area with a topical anesthetic.
During the procedure, the laser will be directed at your skin to remove the top layer and heat the layer of skin underneath to promote collagen over time. The entire procedure can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your treatment goals.
After the procedure, the treated skin will be red, swollen – like sunburned skin.
Dr. Kuzel's nurse will apply a thick ointment to the skin. You may take pain relievers at this time to relieve any discomfort.
The new layer of skin usually takes one or two weeks to cover the area. You can typically expect about seven days of downtime, with some residual pink lasting for a few weeks after. It is important during this healing time to avoid sun exposure when possible and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to minimize the risk of reversing your treatment. Use caution when using your normal cosmetics and skin care treatments, and steer clear of all retinoid and glycolic acid products until your skin is fully healed.
After recovery, even in the early stages of healing, you will begin to notice a difference in the quality and appearance of your skin, and gradually the results you wanted will shine through.
Book a consultation with Dr. Kuzel and his team to discuss a possible CO2 laser resurfacing treatment. Please ensure you minimize sun exposure for about a month prior and come to your appointment without a base tan. Arrive prepared to discuss any medication you’re taking or have taken in the past, any past cosmetic procedures, and some general medical history. Dr. Kuzel will also do a physical exam on your skin to determine the best way to achieve optimal results based on your skin type.
Like most medical and cosmetic procedures, there is a risk of infection. The most common type of infection is a flare-up of the virus that causes cold sores. If you’re prone to getting cold sores, talk to your doctor about an antiviral medication to use before and after your treatment to prevent an outbreak and allow your skin to heal without infections.