At a glance
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Treatment time 30 minutes to 1 hour
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Pain None to moderate discomfort
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Results Up to 3 weeks
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Results Duration 3-5 years
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Price Depends on treatment plan
What is CO2 Laser Treatment?
We at Dr Yusra use a CO2 laser, short for Carbon Dioxide laser, to treat various skin treatments. This laser emits a concentrated beam of light that targets water molecules in the skin, causing controlled damage to specific layers.
We use CO2 lasers for skin resurfacing procedures to treat a range of concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, acne scarring, uneven skin tone, and sun damage.
CO2 laser resurfacing can lead to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin by precisely removing damaged skin cells and stimulating collagen production.
CO2 lasers can also be used for more targeted treatments, such as the removal of benign skin growths like warts, moles, and skin tags.
One of the key benefits of CO2 laser technology is its ability to deliver customisable treatments, allowing dermatologists to adjust the intensity and depth of the laser based on each patient’s specific needs and desired outcomes.
How Does CO2 Laser Work?
A CO2 laser for skin works by emitting a concentrated beam of infrared light at a wavelength of 10,600 nanometers, which is highly absorbed by water molecules in the skin.
This interaction between the laser light and water creates heat, leading to controlled thermal damage to the targeted skin tissue.
The CO2 laser can be adjusted to deliver pulses of varying durations and intensities, allowing dermatologists to customise treatments based on the specific needs of each patient.
For a laser skin resurfacing treatment, the laser is typically used to ablate (vaporise) the outer layers of the skin, removing damaged or aged tissue and stimulating the production of new collagen fibres.
The thermal energy from the laser also has a tightening effect on the skin, which helps to improve overall skin texture and firmness.
Additionally, the heat generated by the laser promotes the body’s natural healing process, leading to the formation of new, healthier skin cells.
In more targeted treatments, such as the removal of skin growths or the treatment of certain skin conditions, the CO2 laser can be used to precisely target and destroy abnormal tissue while minimising damage to surrounding healthy skin.
Overall, the CO2 laser works by harnessing the power of light energy to rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the skin, providing patients with smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking results.
How is the Treatment Administered?
On the day of your treatment, we at Dr Yusra will thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil. Topical anaesthetic cream or local anaesthesia may be applied to the treatment area to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
During your treatment, you will be provided with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. We then use a handheld device to deliver the CO2 laser energy to the targeted areas of the skin.
The laser emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the water molecules in the skin, causing controlled thermal damage.
After the CO2 laser treatment, your skin may appear red, swollen, and sensitive, similar to a sunburn.
Patients are provided with post-treatment instructions, which may include applying soothing ointments or moisturisers, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, and avoiding sun exposure.
It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully to promote healing and minimise the risk of complications.
Side Effects of CO2 Laser Treatment
While CO2 laser treatment for skin can offer significant improvements in skin texture and appearance, it may also be associated with some side effects, which can vary depending on the intensity of the treatment and individual skin sensitivity.
Common side effects of CO2 laser treatment for skin include redness and swelling immediately following the procedure. This means that the treated area of the skin may appear red and swollen. This is a normal reaction and typically subsides within a few days to a week.
Patients may experience some degree of pain or discomfort during and after the CO2 laser treatment.
Topical anaesthetic creams or local anaesthesia are often used to minimise discomfort during the procedure, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any post-treatment discomfort.
As the skin heals, patients may experience itching or a tingling sensation in the treated area. This is a common part of the healing process and usually resolves on its own over time.
The treated area of the skin may peel or develop crusts as it heals. This is a normal response to the laser treatment and is part of the skin’s natural renewal process.
Moreover, CO2 laser treatment can sometimes cause temporary changes in skin pigmentation, such as hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin).
These changes are typically temporary and resolve as the skin heals, but in some cases, they may be permanent.
While rare, there is a small risk of infection following CO2 laser treatment. It’s essential to follow post-treatment care instructions carefully to minimise the risk of infection and promote proper healing.
When Will I See Results?
You may start to see changes as quickly as 3 weeks after your treatment, and this will last around 3-5 years.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
This depends on your personal goals and treatment plan, which will be discussed during your consultation before the treatment.
