CO2 Laser

What do CO2 lasers do?
A CO2 laser can be used to resurface the skin, improving wrinkles and acne scars.  CO2 lasers can also be used to excise lesions such as moles and skin tags, as well as make incisions for most surgical procedures.

How do CO2 lasers work?
A CO2 laser produces light of a single frequency that travels in the same direction.  CO2 Laser lightdoes not spread when traveling through space. Therefore, a laser can transmit a lot of energy into a small spot.  Thus one can destroy small lesions, and make incisions.  Furthermore, CO2 lasers resurface skin by vaporizing superficial damaged skin cells making way for the deeper, healthier, younger cells to come to the surface.  As a result, fine wrinkles will be removed and dynamic wrinkles will be improved.  Acne scars will also appear less obvious.  Through its effect on healing and collagen stimulation, the CO2 laser tightens the skin, smoothes the skin texture, and improves the complexion, and skin color

What are the disadvantages?
Because the skin is vaporized it is a true burn. With laser skin resurfacing this entails a lengthy recovery (1-2 weeks). Redness may persist for 1-2 months, and blotchy skin discoloration may occur in 5-10% of patients.  Facial spider veins may also develop or worsen in 2% - 3% of those treated.

What is recovery like with CO2 resurfacing?
One can expect redness for at least 2 weeks.  One cannot wear makeup until the burn heals.  With heavy CO2 resurfacing, a gel is necessary to protect the skin.