What is the CO2 laser and the fractionated CO2 laser and how do they work?

The CO2 laser and the fractionated CO2 laser are used to create microscopic channels in the skin and remove the very superficial sections of the skin giving beautiful results. It is important to treat the skin with clean hands until healed (about 7 – 10 days).

The deeper channels of the treatment continue to heal over several months. It is normal for the skin pinkness to fade gradually: the pinkness indicates the building of new collagen, helping create firm skin with an improved texture and reduction of wrinkles, pores, skin irregularities and pigment spots.

What else does Dr. Patel do to the skin when using the co2 laser?

We also combine the use of nano fat grafts with the laser in all our patients as we get the most superb improvement in the skin. In fact, our Facelifts and Hammock lifts are known for the improvement the skin as much as for the amazing changes we create in the facial and neck structures.

Please follow these instructions after your CO2 laser

1. Ice for ten to fifteen minutes every hour for the next 5 – 6 hours to reduce swelling. Use a bag of frozen peas covered with a thin clean cloth/towel.
2. USEFUL TIP: mixing a table spoonful of kitchen vinegar (white) in a glass of water and using that to soak the skin four or five times a day helps to remove the peeling skin. It also cleans up the area nicely. Most of my patients find this very useful for the first week. Use a clean face-cloth rather than cotton wool (the wool will stick to the face!).
3. You can use tap water, although some patients mix the vinegar in cold distilled water (distilled water and white vinegar can be purchased in any grocery store or drug store).
4. Keeping the solution cool in the fridge makes the treatment more soothing.
5. Make a fresh solution every day.
6. Avoid scratching or rubbing the treated skin – do not put adhesive dressings over treated areas.
7. Men may shave 1-2 days post-treatment but be gentle. Best to use an electric razor for the first few days!
8. Avoid all saunas and hot tubs. Showers can be taken, but avoid hot water and direct shower spray to treatment area for 3 days following treatment. You may, however, shower and get the face and treated areas wet the day after the treatment.
9. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48-72 hours (this includes all yoga, especially the upside down, inside out Bridge-Lion pose).
10. Avoid alcoholic beverages for 24-48 hours.
11. Sleep with 1-2 extra pillows at night to keep head raised for the two nights.
12. Avoid direct sunlight for a minimum of 4 weeks after your treatment and wear a sun block (see below). If actively outdoors, you should reapply your sunscreen every 2-4 hours and wear a wide-brimmed hat
13. Do not use any retinoid, Retin-A or glycolic products for 4 weeks following the procedure. Do not use any non-prescription creams without checking with us first.
14. Refrain from any chemical peel treatments or microdermabrasion (or deep facials!) for 4 weeks post-procedure.
15. Take the prescribed pain medication as and if needed and please take the prescribed anti-viral medication to prevent cold sores or a breakout of herpes simples. After one week, most patients find that using the water-and-vinegar soaks two to three times a day for another week makes the skin feel better. You can start using a physical sunscreen like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide on your skin. A good sunscreen is EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen with an SPF protection of more than 40. If you Google it, you can find many places that sell it.
16. The degree of pinkness varies from person-to-person because of the different levels of treatment and because of the different skin types. Occasionally, we will prescribe a weak steroid after three to four weeks which helps to reduce the pinkness. We may also occasionally use a specific laser that helps to reduce the pinkness. But we should not rush the production of new collagen!
17. We will guide you through the process and ensure you get a beautiful result!

Useful links:
Important information about Suncreens and How to Choose the Best Sunscreen
Simple Outline of Products that are Useful after your CO2 Laser

BCK Patel MD, FRCS