CO2 Laser facial rejuvenation is a highly effective solution to improve the appearance of damaged and aged skin. The laser works by employing a highly energized form of focused light that gently and precisely vaporizes the top layers of skin, removing the telltale signs of aging and other imperfections. Collagen production is stimulated during the healing process leading to a tighter, smoother and more youthful appearance. The results are more precise and predictable, in general, compared to other techniques.

The CO2 Laser Skin Rejuvenation Procedure

CO2 Laser facial skin rejuvenation is usually performed under general anesthesia. Great precision can be employed with the laser, adjusting several variables in order to deliver the most effective and safe amount of energy to different areas. It is this flexibility that can lead to dramatic, predictable and safer outcomes.

Recovery from the CO2 Laser Facial Skin Rejuvenation

An ointment or lotion is applied to the skin several times a day for a total of five to seven days until full healing has occurred. The skin at this point will be quite red. At around a week to two weeks, cover-up makeup can be applied so that one can be presentable in public. However, it can take several months for the redness or pink coloration to fully resolve.

Sun exposure after the CO2 laser treatment should be kept to a minimum for six to nine months. Patients need to faithfully apply a high SPF factor sunscreen that also has broad spectrum UVA coverage to protect the skin from the development of pigmentation irregularities. Skin bleaching agents are also used to help avoid this problem. Alpha-hydroxy acids, Retin-A^® or other skin care agents can be used as maintenance therapy to prolong the results from the CO2 laser treatment.

The outcome from facial skin rejuvenation using the CO2 laser can be quite dramatic and provide one with a much more youthful appearance. This procedure can also be used in conjunction with BOTOX^®, Juvederm^®, Restylane^® and other skin treatments offered at our practice.

Additionally Frequently Asked Questions About C02 Laser Skin Resurfacing

Q: What are my options for dramatically improving facial wrinkles?

A: Many options are available to improve facial wrinkles including a wide array of highly touted lasers. Too often, though, the improvements are relatively minor and can be difficult to discern. The choices for substantial improvements include CO2 laser rejuvenation, the Erbium laser, certain chemical peels, and dermabrasion. In general, the Ultrapulsed CO2 laser usually gives a more precise, predictable and dramatic result than the chemical peels and dermabrasion and a more substantial result than the Erbium laser.

Q: Is the CO2 laser resurfacing painful?

A: The discomfort is usually fairly well tolerated if there is some type of dressing, lotion or ointment applied to the skin following the resurfacing. There can be considerable swelling of the eyes and lips for a few days following a full face resurfacing.

Q: Can I choose to have just my eyelids or lips resurfaced with the laser?

A: Because the laser is so effective, dramatic improvements in the skin’s appearance can be seen. As a result, there is usually a significant difference between areas that are treated versus those that are not which can lead to a patchwork appearance. For this reason, Dr. Turkeltaub usually recommends full face skin resurfacing.