How Fractional CO2 Resurfacing Can Repair Damaged Skin

In this society that is obsessed with youth, it can be hard to deal with the effects of aging. Many people want to stave off the process for as long as possible. Fractional CO2 laser therapy is one tool that you can use for this purpose. It is a revolutionary laser skin resurfacing treatment that combines the efficacy of old-fashioned carbon dioxide lasers with a novel technique that removes some of the unwanted side effects of traditional methods.

What happens when your skin suffers from sun damage

As people age and experience sun damage, the collagen in their skin is gradually broken down. Collagen is the major protein within the connective tissue that keeps the skin from sagging and forming lines. Laser resurfacing techniques make microscopic incisions in the skin with tiny beams of energy; these beams stimulate your body’s production of collagen. Fractional CO2 laser therapy is unique in that it does this with minimal damage to the epidermis. As such, you will not need to deal with the extensive recovery time that is often a given with laser therapies.

What you should expect following a fractional CO2 resurfacing treatment in NYC

After the therapy is done, you will need to keep the treated area of skin moist. Your certified dermatologist will likely do this with ointments or surgical bandages. You will also need to limit exposure to sunlight and use sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) for as long as your dermatologist tells you to do so. Your dermatologist will give you detailed instructions as to how to handle your recovery from the procedure.

Fractional lasers vs. traditional carbon dioxide lasers

This procedure is much safer than traditional carbon dioxide lasers. It also demands a lot less down time. The procedure itself lasts only about 15 minutes, and it will generally take about seven to ten days for your skin to recover fully. Anesthesia is not necessary; you will only need a topical numbing cream at the site of the procedure and a cooling fan. Typically, patients will need two or three treatments to experience the most that this procedure has to offer. If you feel like you might benefit from this procedure, talk to your dermatologist to see if it is right for you.