Laser Skin Resurfacing

Benefits of CO2 Laser

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is one of the most popular skin rejuvenation procedures available. This procedure allows you to reverse the effects of aging without plastic surgery, fillers, or Botox—instead, laser technology provides skin-boosting benefits without the need for an inpatient cosmetic procedure.

CO2 laser treatment benefits include:

• Minimized sun damage, fine lines, and acne scars
• Stimulated collagen production for smoother, younger-looking skin
• Improved skin texture and evens out skin tone
• Minimal downtime and fast recovery time

Is Laser Resurfacing Right for You?

Good candidates for laser resurfacing include people with skin conditions that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments. This cosmetic procedure can be used to treat many age, sun, or acne-related skin concerns, such as:

• Age spots
• Crow’s feet
• Enlarged oil glands
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Scars, including acne scars
• Uneven skin tone
• Hyperpigmentation

However, laser skin resurfacing may not be right for you if you have active acne breakouts. If you are taking or recently took isotretinoin, speak to your dermatologist first. Research suggests that you should wait a few months—usually 6 to 12 months—since completing isotretinoin to begin laser treatment. Speak to a professional at Bella Medspa to discuss your medical history and whether this procedure is right for your skin condition(s).

It’s a common misconception that people with darker skin are not good candidates for laser skin resurfacing. While people with lighter skin tones have a reduced risk of hypopigmentation, laser treatment is safe for all skin tones. Darker skin simply requires a more gentle approach. To avoid unwanted side effects, our staff will perform a spot test to ensure that the resurfacing laser settings are compatible with your skin type.

The Resurfacing Procedure

The resurfacing procedure is simple, safe, and completely outpatient. You do not need to spend the night in a hospital or clinic after receiving your treatment. Prior to your first session, avoid tanning or heavy sun exposure for at least 4 weeks. You should also avoid exfoliating facial procedures for at least 4 weeks—this includes chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

Before you decide to invest in CO2 laser resurfacing, you will meet with a Bella Medspa esthetician who will explain the procedure and your individual treatment plan. Once you create a plan, you’re ready to schedule your first session!

Bella Medspa’s estheticians will take the proper steps to ensure that you undergo a safe and effective laser skin resurfacing treatment. Prior to the procedure, we can discuss potential side effects of laser treatment with you and detail how to preserve your results and protect your new skin after the treatment. At Bella Medspa, we prioritize our clients’ comfort and education.

Aftercare Tips for CO2 Laser Therapy

The healing process for skin resurfacing usually takes one to two weeks. However, the bigger the treatment area and the deeper the laser, the longer your recovery time will be. Your skin may feel red, swollen, and raw after the procedure.

Laser skin resurfacing increases your skin’s sensitivity, so it is very important to be careful and protect yourself in the weeks following your procedure. Your Bella Medspa esthetician will provide specific instructions for you to follow. General aftercare tips include:

• Adjust your skincare routine according to your esthetician’s instructions. You’ll need to be careful around the treated area immediately after your laser skin resurfacing.
• Avoid sunscreens, cosmetics, or other products that could irritate your face for the first two weeks after the procedure. You should especially avoid any exfoliating treatments, such as chemical peels.
• Recently resurfaced skin is more sensitive to sun damage. To avoid sun exposure, it is recommended to receive laser skin resurfacing during the fall or winter. Once your skin heals, always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you go outside to avoid sunburn.

How to Prepare for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Like all cosmetic procedures, proper preparation is very important for laser resurfacing. When you schedule a consultation with a Bella Medspa esthetician, they will provide specific recommendations based on your skin type. In general, the following tips can keep your skin protected and increase the procedure’s effectiveness.

• Avoid tanning or prolonged sun exposure for at least 4 weeks before your treatment. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily during this time period, even if it’s cloudy outside.
• Also in the 4 weeks before your skin resurfacing, avoid chemical peels and other deep facial treatments. This includes dermabrasion and other laser resurfacing treatments.
• If you take medicines that increase photosensitivity, such as doxycycline, do not use these medications for at least 72 hours before your procedure.
• If you have a history of herpes or shingles in the area you want to be resurfaced, tell your esthetician as soon as possible. This includes oral cold sores. Begin your antiviral medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Usually, you will take your medication 2 days before treatment and continue taking it for 3 days after treatment.

Fraxel Laser vs CO2 Laser Therapy

There are two types of laser skin resurfacing technology: ablative lasers and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the outside layers of the skin, revealing fresh new skin underneath. Non-ablative lasers do not remove any skin, instead using pulsed light, pulsed-dye, or fractional lasers to treat conditions such as spider veins, rosacea, and acne-related medical conditions. A Fraxel laser is a type of non-ablative technology, and is best suited for textured acne scars, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and wrinkles.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a type of ablative laser which helps remove acne scars and deep wrinkles. Your procedure may involve an Erbium laser, which helps remove finer lines and wrinkles. This laser provides the benefits of ablative laser technology while reducing unwanted discoloration in the treatment areas. Contact Bella Medspa to discuss our laser skin resurfacing options and learn which procedure is right for you.

Fractionated Ablative Laser Treatment Cost

At Bella Medspa, fractional ablative laser treatment costs anywhere between $200 to $600 per treatment. Depending on your skin conditions and type, you may need multiple treatments to achieve your desired results. 

Interested in learning more about our laser resurfacing?
Book a free consultation at 484-341-8239.