CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a practice involving the use of a laser that omits carbon dioxide (CO2) laser beams to remove acne scars, warts as well deep wrinkles. The Recharge Clinic Fraxis Duo CO2 laser has two settings, ablative and non-ablative.

The ablative setting works by removing the top layer of the skin and heating up the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate cell turnover and increased collagen production, while non-ablative heats up the underlying tissue without completely removing the surface of the skin. Both settings increase the production of new skin cells and increased collagen to replace damaged cells.

How do I know which type of laser treatment I would need?

Ablative treatments are more invasive and can produce results in as little as one treatment, and are typically recommended for more severe skin issues, whereas non-ablative treatments don't take as long to heal but may require more treatments to achieve desired results. CO2 lasers have been used for many years to treat benign and malignant skin conditions. We understand it may be confusing to figure out which treatment you may need, but not to worry! Our trained medical providers will consult with you about which option they think would work best for you depending on your skin concerns and treatment goals. They will help make a treatment plan based on your goals and be there every step of the way for you because our biggest goal is to help you feel your very best and love the skin you're in!

CO2 Laser Resurfacing is great for:

• Minimize acne scarring and active acne lesions
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and moderate to severe wrinkles
• Stimulate Collagen production for firmer, more youthful looking skin
• Improve texture and reduce sun damage
• Kill pre-cancerous cells and remove warts or moles

A newer practice of carbon dioxide lasers uses very short-pulsed light energy or endless light beams that are deposited in a scanning pattern. It can get rid of the thin outer layer of skin and heat the deeper skin depending on the laser settings chosen by our Electrologist. This laser treatment encourages the growth of brand new collagen fibers. When the epidermis heals and regrows, the laser treated skin appears clearer, smoother and tighter. We use topical numbing for this treatment regardless if it is ablative or non-ablative to maximize our patients' comfort.

What is the recovery process like?

Recovery from CO2 laser resurfacing of the entire face takes about 7 to 14 days, depending on the depth and energy level of the laser beams. Post-procedure swelling is expected in the first couple of days after treatment, then usually subsides by day 3 to 5 depending on each individual patient's rate of healing. The results of a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment can be seen about two weeks after the procedure took place. Patients are typically extremely satisfied with the improvements of every treatment they receive, and the long term results of a customized treatment plan can reverse signs of aging and skin damage to boost confidence and fall back in love with the skin you're in! Sun damage corrects the best with laser resurfacing. Wrinkles may get bette by 60% to 80% in some people, while scars improve to a lesser degree. Patients are highly satisfied with the aesthetic improvement.