CO2 laser resurfacing is a precise method for ablating the uppermost skin layer, the epidermis. This procedure stimulates healthier dermal tissue growth and minimizes the appearance of certain types of hyperpigmentation. Scarring, especially acne or injury scarring, can be made less visible after one or more laser resurfacing treatments.
A CO2 laser is most commonly used for this procedure because it emits a wavelength that can penetrate more deeply and address the problem of discoloration occurring at the deeper level within the skin layers. In other words, a CO2 laser removes the epidermis but also heats up and purposely damages the darker, damaged tissue that lies beneath. Below, we discuss the treatment in more detail so that you can decide for yourself whether you are a likely candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing.
What It Treats
When the epidermal layer is carefully removed via laser energy, the dermis below also heats up a bit. This stimulates a regenerative process that involves new tissue creation as well as an increase in the amount of collagen in the skin. Once the damaged epidermal layer is removed, the dermis is exposed, so the skin immediately looks more radiant and even in tone. However, the dermis will go into overdrive producing new skin cells, and a new epidermis will quickly develop.
At the same time, the heat from the laser slightly damages darker tissues such as acne scarring. These cells will quickly be discarded in favor of healthier tissue. Over a period of a month or so, this type of discoloration will fade as the entire surface and underlying layers become more evenly toned. A CO2 laser treatment can also help minimize the appearance of superficial wrinkles and even moderate creasing.
How It’s Performed
The laser is a handheld instrument that can emit pulses of laser light or a beam that is constantly scattered into thin, pixelated shafts. These shafts are scattered at an extremely high rate so that any one area of the skin won’t heat up too quickly and cause unwanted tissue damage. The light energy cauterizes the epidermal layer and also heats up the dermis slightly. The body responds to this heat intrusion by sending additional blood to the area to carry away some of the heat energy and also to supply the tissues with additional nutrients to help accelerate the production of replacement tissue.
A typical CO2 laser treatment that targets several areas of discolorations can be completed in less than an hour. This is a great alternative to surgical removal or repositioning of the skin. Uneven pigmentation is difficult to treat using other methods. Scarring can only be corrected by surgical removal of the tissue or by stimulating the body to replace it. Laser resurfacing produces the latter effect, something that most individuals prefer over a more aggressive approach.
Get Rid Of Acne And Injury Scars
If you want more information on treating acne scars, CO2 laser resurfacing may be the answer. Contact us todayat Plateroti Dermatology to schedule your consultation.
