CO₂ Skin Resurfacing

At Westerville Dermatology, we offer CO₂ Skin Resurfacing, a carbon dioxide laser used to improve the appearance of the skin. It works by removing damaged outer layers of skin to reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin underneath. 

Experience transformative skin rejuvenation with the UltraPulse Encore CO₂ laser, a fractional high-precision device that allows our physicians to precisely tailor treatments for acne scarring, surgical scars, deep wrinkles, sun damage, and skin tightening. As the gold standard in skin resurfacing, this carbon dioxide laser meticulously ablates the skin layer by layer, promoting the formation of new collagen, which rejuvenates and enhances your skin's appearance. By leveraging the latest in fractional laser technology, we offer customized treatments that ensure faster healing and superior cosmetic outcomes. 

Benefits of CO₂ Skin Resurfacing

  • Improved Skin Texture: Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
  • Even Skin Tone: Targets areas of hyperpigmentation, such as sun spots or age spots.
  • Stimulates Collagen Production: Stimulates the production of collagen.
  • Tightens the Skin: Can help tighten loose or sagging skin, particularly in areas like the face, neck, and décolletage.
  • Minimally Invasive: Performed on an outpatient basis.
  • Long-lasting Results: Results can last for several years.

Common Side Effects of CO₂ Skin Resurfacing

  • Redness and Swelling: Typically resolve within a few days to a week.
  • Itching or Stinging: Some discomfort may occur during the healing process.
  • Skin Sensitivity: The treated skin may be sensitive to touch, sun exposure, or skincare products.
  • Crusting or Peeling: The skin may crust or peel as it heals.
  • Changes in Skin Color: Temporary changes in skin pigmentation, such as darkening or lightening.

What to Expect at Your CO₂ Skin Resurfacing Appointment

Your CO₂ skin resurfacing journey will start with a consultation where your dermatology provider will evaluate your skin and discuss your cosmetic goals to determine if CO₂ resurfacing is the right treatment for you. Prior to treatment, your skin will be cleansed, and a numbing cream or local anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort. During the treatment, the CO₂ laser will be carefully applied to your skin, targeting the areas of concern. You may feel some heat or tingling sensations, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
 

CO₂ Skin Resurfacing Maintenance Recommendations

After CO₂ Skin Resurfacing, your skin will be red and may feel warm, similar to a sunburn. Your dermatology professional will provide you with post-care instructions, that include applying soothing creams and avoiding sun exposure. Over the following days to weeks, your skin will heal, and you may experience some redness, swelling, and peeling, which are normal parts of the healing process. Your dermatology provider may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your skin's progress and determine if additional treatments are needed. It is important to follow all of these post-treatment instructions to achieve the desired result. 

CO₂ Skin Resurfacing Maintenance Schedule

While this may vary depending on your skin and cosmetic goals, most patients receive a series of treatments spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart after the inital treatment. After this inital series, maintenance treatments may be recommended every 6 to 12 months to maintain the results. However, the exact schedule will depend on factors such as the condition of your skin, your age, and your skincare goals. Your dermatology provider will talk to you about an individualized treatment plan.

CO₂ Skin Resurfacing FAQs

  • Mild wrinkling including the eyelids.
  • Rough textured and lusterless skin.
  • Usually requires 1-2 sessions.
  • Healing appearance: redness, slight swelling and pinpoint crusts.
  • Downtime usually 3-5 days.
  • Deep acne scarring and wrinkling.
  • Helps to tighten loose skin.
  • Usually requires 1-3 sessions.
  • Healing appearance: redness 2-4 days but skin may remain pink for 7 days, swelling, pinpoint bleeding and crusts.
  • Downtime usually 5-6 days.

Total FX Laser Treatment is a combination of Active FX and Deep FX in combination performed same day.

  • For deep rejuvenation and scarring
  • Usually requires 1-3 treatments, very individualized.
  • Healing appearance: redness lasting 7-14 days, pinkness up to 4 weeks, swelling, crusting.
  • Downtime usually 7 days

How Westerville Dermatology Can Help

Westerville Dermatology offers advanced CO₂ Skin Resurfacing using the UltraPulse Encore CO₂ laser, enabling our skilled physicians to precisely address a range of skin concerns including deep wrinkles, acne scars, and sun damage. Our use of fractional laser technology allows for targeted treatments that minimize downtime and promote rapid healing. By customizing each procedure to the patient’s specific needs, we ensure optimal rejuvenation and beautiful, lasting results.