CO2 Laser Resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing has quickly become the gold standard for skin tightening, wrinkle reduction, pigment improvement and scar minimization. This potent procedure is one of the most effective skin rejuvenation breakthroughs of recent decades and can deliver powerful, visible results with as little as one treatment.

Under the guidance of board-certified Dr. Lisa Gulcher, the team at Time 4 U Med Spa is prepared to help you reach your aesthetic goals with personalized and friendly care. If wrinkles, fine lines, scarring, lax or sagging skin, or unusual pigmentation have you concerned, schedule a consultation with us to learn how CO2 laser resurfacing can help restore your confidence and more youthful, luminous skin.

How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?

CO2 laser resurfacing delivers concentrated beams of short, pulsed energy into deep layers of the skin. The laser energy carefully eliminates damaged cells on the skin’s outer layer that have been affected by blemishes or signs of aging, while leaving the surrounding tissue intact to provide a faster recovery. The removal of damaged cells also stimulates collagen production, prompting the skin to restructure itself with a firmer and smoother appearance as it heals. This highly effective procedure can deliver dramatic results when performed by a safe and skilled physician.

What Can CO2 Laser Resurfacing Treat?

Who Is a Good Candidate for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

Men and women with aging skin, irregularly pigmented skin, scarring and other types of aesthetic concerns make good candidates for CO2 laser resurfacing. Ideal candidates for this treatment, like any cosmetic procedure, understand the associated risks, benefits, costs and recovery requirements, and have realistic expectations about their results. CO2 laser resurfacing is not recommended for people taking certain supplements or medications, people who are prone to cold sores or fever blisters, and women who are pregnant. Laser resurfacing may also not be right for individuals with active acne, very dark skin, a tendency to form scars or an autoimmune disease.

During your consultation, Dr. Gulcher will discuss your skincare goals, review your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine if laser resurfacing is right for you.

Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing Painful?

CO2 laser resurfacing produces minimal discomfort, and Dr. Gulcher applies a topical anesthetic to the skin 30 to 45 minutes before treatment to numb the area and ensure complete patient comfort. Following treatment, the skin will be tender and may produce a “hot” sensation. Patients often describe the post-procedure sensation as similar to the feeling of a moderate sunburn. How exactly laser resurfacing feels during and following treatment ultimately depends on the depth of treatment, the treatment area and the patient’s tolerance for pain. Following the recommended aftercare plan provided by Dr. Gulcher will reduce discomfort and encourage efficient healing.

How Long Do the Treatments Take?

Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Require Any Downtime?

CO2 laser resurfacing is customized to each patient’s needs and goals. The amount of downtime required after the procedure depends on the strength and scope of each patient’s treatment. Lighter peels require minimal downtime, while more aggressive peels may need five to seven days or more of healing time before patients may return to normal activities. The recovery period can involve skin redness, crusting, oozing, dryness, flaking and peeling. Patients may return to work and other normal activities as soon as they feel comfortable with the appearance of their skin.

Dr. Gulcher and her staff will advise you on what type of CO2 laser resurfacing treatment is best for your skin during an in-person consultation.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

All associated risks and side effects are discussed with patients prior to their treatment. Uncommon side effects include prolonged redness, swelling, burns, scarring, acne flares, infection and changes to the skin’s pigmentation. Dr. Gulcher and her team are specially-trained to reduce risks and provide consistent and safe results.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

The exact amount of treatments needed depends upon each patient’s specific skin concerns, their goals and the amount of downtime allowed. For patients who wish to treat a more superficial issue, such as uneven skin tone, a single treatment may be sufficient to achieve their desired results. For patients seeking laser resurfacing for a more substantial concern, such as deeply etched wrinkles, a second treatment may be required to maximize the benefits. Maintenance treatments may also be necessary to ensure long-lasting results.

What Kind of Results Can Be Expected?

Initial results are evident a few days after the procedure when the skin begins to peel. As the treated area heals, the skin will look more radiant and youthful with improved texture and tone. Deeper improvements to fine lines, wrinkles, scars or sagging skin can take up to 12 weeks to develop, as the process of collagen formation and dermal remodeling requires three months to reach completion.

CO2 laser resurfacing produces dramatic results with a single treatment that can last for years. However, the improvements are not permanent. Skin continues to age naturally as time goes on due to a combination of environmental stressors, sun exposure, lifestyle choices and genetics. The team at Time 4 U Med Spa can recommend a treatment plan to extend the life of your results as long as possible.

Smoother, More Radiant Skin at Time 4 U Med Spa

CO2 laser resurfacing is a highly effective anti-aging treatment that can help reduce wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, sun damage, and other blemishes while tightening skin and balancing tone. Using the latest laser technologies and techniques, Dr. Gulcher and her professional staff will create an individualized treatment plan based on your goals and your concerns that delivers visible results. Call Time 4 U Med Spa today to schedule your consultation.

*The information about CO2 laser resurfacing was reviewed by Dr. Lisa Gulcher. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.