Candidates for Fractional CO2 Laser
Candidates for fractional CO2 laser treatment are those individuals who desire skin rejuvenation to treat signs of aging skin.
How Fractional CO2 Laser is Performed
We use the Deka SmartXide DOT system to perform the fractional CO2 laser treatments. This is an advanced laser that has been evaluated extensively, including in a multi-center study. The laser system generates optimized and accurate energy pulses which can be precisely controlled for each patient. The DOT technology utilizes a fractional mode that generates an array of high-precision laser microbeams. These microbeams of energy treat the skin with tiny “dots”. Creating these tiny “dots” helps to increase collagen production and stimulate skin tightening as your skin heals itself following treatment. Since the skin surrounding the treated “dots” remains intact, the skin is able to heal much faster and with less risk of complication.
Recovery time usually ranges between days to a week and depends on the depth of treatment performed. Generally, the recovery process and the response to the treatment will differ from patient to patient. However, the following details provide a typical outlook of the two treatment types we offer.
Deka Light Treatment
This “light” treatment is an excellent option for patients who desire the least downtime and do not require major skin remodeling. This fractional CO2 laser treatment helps improve skin texture, reduce pore size, and smooth uneven skin pigmentation. Topical numbing cream is first applied to ensure that you are comfortable during this treatment. After the procedure, there is usually several days of redness and about 1 week of a rough skin texture and/or a bronzed skin appearance. We typically recommend a series of 2 to 4 treatments in order to to achieve meaningful results. You can usually receive treatments four weeks apart from the last one.
Deka Deep Treatment
This “deep” treatment is ideal for patients who are interested in more intense skin remodeling. This fractional CO2 treatment improves deeper wrinkles, skin texture, and uneven skin tone and pigmentation. A single treatment with this technique yields a much more profound result when compared to the “light” treatment. Depending on wrinkle severity, more than one session may be recommended. We commonly apply topical numbing to the skin and perform numbing injections prior to your treatment. After the procedure, the skin will be red and feel warm, similar to a bad sun burn. It will also feel very dry and rough, similar to sandpaper. There can also be some minor swelling, oozing, and crusting. The downtime is usually 5 to 8 days. Following this, your new, fresher skin will begin to appear.
New collagen will continue to develop in your skin over the next 3-6 months. However, your skin may appear visibly tighter and smoother soon after you receive your treatment.
How to Prepare for Fractional CO2 Laser
It is important to avoid sun exposure for 1-3 months prior to your treatment. Depending on your case, you may also be recommended to stop certain skin care products, such as retinol, several days prior to your treatment.
We are conveniently located to serve Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, & Los Angeles. However, we are available to help with coordinating your stay if you are an Out-of-Town Patient.
What to Expect After Fractional CO2 Laser
Recovery time usually ranges from 3-10 days and depends on the depth of treatment performed. Generally, the recovery process and the response to the treatment will differ from patient to patient.
