How Does a CO2 Laser Work?

Laser skin resurfacing is a popular cosmetic treatment that can revitalize and rejuvenate the skin by addressing some of the most common complexion issues. The CO2 laser can target everything from age spots to enlarged pores and more. Learn more about this innovative technology to improve your skin’s complexion and determine if laser resurfacing is right for you.

What Is the CO2 Laser?

The CO2 laser is an innovative device that uses a molecular gas mixture laser to change your skin at the cellular level. With a mixture of carbon dioxide, helium, nitrogen, and hydrogen, CO2 laser technology can help transform your complexion and resolve many common skin care issues. 

The Benefits of CO2 Laser Treatment

CO2 laser skin resurfacing can resolve a wide variety of cosmetic concerns, including:

• Reduced hyperpigmentation
• Tighter, smaller pores
• More even tone and texture overall
• Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles
• Resolution of acne scarring
• Increasing collagen production

The most significant benefit of CO2 skin resurfacing is that the procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical. There is no need for anesthesia, and no incisions or sutures are involved.

The Complete CO2 Laser Resurfacing Process

Are you considering CO2 laser skin resurfacing? It is important to understand how this treatment works before having it performed. Take a look at this detailed breakdown of how CO2 laser treatment works and what you can expect throughout the process.

Consulting with an Experienced Provider

Before having a CO2 laser treatment, you will consult with a plastic surgeon, like Dr. Ayoub of Westfield Plastic Surgery Center. This consultation aims to determine whether CO2 resurfacing can work for you. Your doctor will evaluate your skin, review your concerns, and discuss your desired outcome. 

Preparing for Treatment

There is little to no preparation required for CO2 laser treatment. On the day of your procedure, wash your skin with a mild cleanser, and do not apply anything topical. The skin should be clean and clear of any debris before your appointment.

The CO2 Laser Process and How It Works

When you arrive for a CO2 laser treatment, your skin may be gently cleansed in addition to your home cleansing in order to remove any bacteria before the session. Once it is clean, your provider will use the handheld CO2 device to emit intense laser energy deep into the layers of your skin. 

This thermal energy contains various gases, including carbon dioxide, helium, and hydrogen. The CO2 laser directly targets damaged skin cells to break them down and destroy them, which applies to scar tissue, hyperpigmentation, and more issues.

CO2 laser energy can also stimulate new collagen production in your skin’s deeper layers. This happens because the CO2 energy changes the cells within your skin to kickstart collagen production — even in older skin, where collagen decline has already started. 

Increased collagen production can resolve signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores.

Recovering from CO2 Treatment

There is minimal recovery associated with CO2 laser treatment. After your session, you can return home and resume most of your normal activity. You will need to avoid direct and prolonged UV rays or sun exposure, and you should also avoid harsh exfoliating products.

It will take several weeks to see the results of your CO2 treatment because it takes time for your skin’s cells to respond to CO2 technology. Most people start to see results about three to four weeks after their procedure.

Get Laser Resurfacing Treatment Today

If you want to revitalize your skin, Westfield Plastic Surgery Center offers laser skin resurfacing treatment for various cosmetic concerns, including fine lines, enlarged pores, and dark age spots. Learn more about the benefits of CO2 laser resurfacing today.