Q: What is Fractional CO2 Laser
A: Fractional CO2 laser is a type of skin treatment used to reduce the appearance of acne scars, deep wrinkles, and other skin irregularities. It is a non-invasive procedure that uses laser, specially made of carbon dioxide, to remove the outer layers of damaged skin.
The fractional CO2 laser is done by applying a local anesthetic cream to the problem area 30 minutes prior. The procedure itself lasts for only 10 to 15 minutes.
It uses short-pulsed light energy (known as ultra pulse) that is continuously blasted through a scanning pattern in order to remove thin, outer layers of damaged skin.
Once the dead skin cells are eliminated, the procedure activates the production of multiple microthermal zones that reaches deep into the skin. Through this, it can stimulate your body’s natural healing process and boost collagen production. This ultimately replaces the old, damaged cells with new, healthy skin.
Before undergoing a fractional CO2 laser procedure, it’s recommended to follow these pre-treatment rules.
– Don’t use products containing retinoids
– Avoid excessive sun exposure 2 weeks prior to the laser treatment
Thanks to the fractional technology used during the procedure, healthy tissues underneath the skin can still be found just in between the microthermal zones where heat was applied. These healthy tissues are able to provide the cells and proteins required to quickly heal the skin.
As a result, patients only have to undergo shorter recovery periods—lasting for 5 to 7 days.
After the fractional CO2 laser procedure, you should apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
