How does Fractional Co2 Laser works?

Fractional Co2 Laser works by producing columns of laser beams which precisely penetrate to the level of wrinkles or scars, and stimulate your own skin to replace the old collagen with new “baby” collagen. In between the laser beams, the skin remains intact, allowing healing to occur quickly.

Who is suitable for Fractional Co2 Laser?

1. Moderate to severe facial wrinkles

2. Moderate wrinkles neck, hands

3. Sun damage and brown spots

4. Acne and other Scarring

What does the treatment involve?

The treatment involves using the laser over a complete area or whole face. It is not suitable for a single wrinkle line or fold.

A numbing cream is applied to the area for at least 1-2 hours prior to treatment, and in some cases local an aesthetic injections are used. Pain puffers and medication can also be used if needed.

The laser is applied to the affected areas. At the end of the treatment the area will look like small white or red dots that disappear by the following day. There is usually redness that lasts at least 7 days, and swelling for a few days. Most people need about 5 days off work.

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on the degree or wrinkling or scarring and your expectations, you would usually need 1-3 treatments. Some people need more, especially those with severe acne scarring.

Is Fractional Co2 Laser painful?

Pain really depends on how strong you use the Fractional Co2 Laser. In most cases, it is essential to use at least a numbing cream, and often local anaesthetic injections are also used. For increased comfort, pain puffers and other painkillers may be used.

After the treatment, there is some discomfort for about 1 hour. It is best relieved by using ice, cold air, or cold compresses.

What do I look like after the treatment with Fractional Co2 Laser?

Immediately after the treatment you will look red, with tiny white dots, or pinpoint bleeding on your skin. These dots usually disappear the next day. Swelling will last a few days and redness at least 7 days. You can apply makeup usually after 3 days, but you usually need a few days (5-7) days off work.

What do I do after the treatment?

1.Take antibiotics to prevent infection (depending on the doctor’s decision)

2.Use light non greasy moisturizer and sunscreen, the clinic will recommend one that is suitable for your skin.

3.You may wish to take anti swelling tablets for a few days.

4.You may wish to use compresses with white vinegar and water for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.

5. Apply makeup after the a few days.

6. Wash your skin with a gentle cleanser eg Cetaphil lotion.

7. If you have darker skin, you may need to use a bleaching lotion after the treatment to prevent post treatment increase in skin pigmentation.

What sort of result can I realistically expect?

After one treatment session, depending on the strength of the treatment, you should notice a significant improvement in wrinkles especially around the eyes. Lines around the mouth are more difficult and may need more than one session.