The last decade has seen a significant number of advancements in medical laser technology. One area of focus has been on CO2 laser skin treatments, particularly with the fractional technique. This is a method that can reduce the amount of time necessary to heal after a fractional CO2 laser skin treatment, and it is entirely appropriate for patients with acne scars.
Here’s how it differs from a traditionally administered CO2 laser treatment. During the normal application of the laser, the entire target area of skin is targeted. This is to remove the outer layer of skin, which then reveals the skin below. After a brief period of recovery, the new skin presents and is much healthier, smoother, and generally younger-looking. When the fractional method is used, only “columns” of skin are targeted in a fractional or fractionated way, meaning that the skin around these columns is left unaffected. This can substantially reduce the amount of time needed to fully recover, as the skin that wasn’t targeted by the laser can help the new skin in its development and healing process.
How Does Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment Resolve Acne Scars?
As described above, the CO2 laser will remove the upper layers of skin. Because acne scars are generally not that deep within the dermis, the laser can remove the upper layer of skin where they are present. Then, as the new skin forms, the presence of the acne scars is significantly reduced, if not entirely removed. The skin will appear smoother, softer, and more youthful in general. Compared to the many lotions and creams on the market that claim to resolve acne scar problems, many patients have found this treatment to be very effective.
How Should I Prepare For Treatment?
Before this kind of procedure, most medical professionals will advise their patients not to smoke, as this can lengthen the healing process. With CO2 laser treatments, the actions taken after the procedure are more detailed and arguably more important. Let’s explore them now.
How Long Will It Take To Make A Full Recovery After Fractional CO2 For Acne?
As everyone’s skin, severity of acne, and general anatomy and overall health is different, it’s impossible to say precisely how long the recovery period will be after a fractional CO2 laser skin treatment for acne procedure. However, on average, patients can expect to recover after about a week of downtime. During this time they’ll be expected to avoid direct sunlight (as the skin will be quite sensitive), wear loose, clean clothing, and not engage in strenuous activities that could result in the abrasion or damaging of the skin.
Patients can expect to have red, sore skin for the first few days following the procedure, but after this time, the redness and sensitivity will begin to subside and the new skin will begin to present in about a week.
How Can I Learn More About Fractional CO2 Ablative Laser Treatment?
To learn more about how to resolve your acne scars with fractional CO2 ablative laser treatments, schedule a consultation with a qualified medical practitioner who has experience in administering this kind of procedure.
If you’d like to work with an experienced, highly skilled surgeon the next time you’re in the Toronto area, please feel welcomed and encouraged to contact the offices of Dr. Cory Torgerson, who has a laser treatment clinic in the city. During the initial consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions pertaining to your unique anatomy and goals, and the doctor will perform an evaluation to determine your candidacy for this kind of treatment. To get started, please dial (647) 343-0207 and schedule a consultation today.