What is Co2 laser treatment?
As we all know, laser is using highly focused light energy for producing a certain desired result on the skin. Some lasers work by targeting specific tissues based on the colour of the target. For example, hair removal laser devices work by specifically targeting the hair follicle. This is called a selective laser. On the other hand, fractional Co2 is considered a non selective laser. It is used by a number of specialties other than Dermatology – like plastic and ocular surgeries, ENT surgeries. Co2 lasers are also used in a number of non medical industries – eg, CNC machines use Co2 Laser.
For dermatology, a highly controlled high energy CO2 laser is used which can provide very high precision, for a number of indications. Wart removal, mole removal, simple surgical excisions, acne scar treatments – these are all some of the indications. Because the Co2 laser cuts through tissue, it is called an ablative laser.
What is fractional Co2 treatment?
In Dermatology, two modes of Co2 laser are used – one is the solid beam and the other one is a fractional beam. The fractional Co2 laser machine delivers its energy in a grid pattern ablating certain parts of the skin surface, with skin in between left intact. This reduces the size of the area ablated, which in turn reduces the possibility of pigmentation from a Co2 laser treatment. This is very important, because one of the problems of doing a full surface ablation is severe post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, when treating Indian skin types. Now, because of the fractional mode, fractional Co2 laser has come to be one of the most well accepted laser treatments for Indian skin types.
What are the benefits of fractional Co2 laser treatment?
Fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment is a very effective treatment option for the following conditions:
Acne scars
Acne
Open Pores
Stretch Marks
Skin Firming
Skin Glow
Post traumatic and post surgical scars
What happens in a fractional Co2 laser treatment?
During a fractional laser procedure, your dermatologist will use the Co2 laser probe to create a matrix of well controlled, microablations on the skin surface. The depths, area of ablation and energy levels will be chosen based on the requirement of the indication. This would be followed by application of topical agents which penetrate into the skin to heal and repair the skin.Post the procedure, there would be skin scabbing for about 5-7 days, during which time you will have to use the healing cream frequently as advised, along with strict sun protection.
Fractional Co2 laser treatments – how many sessions would you need?
The number of sessions needed to see results with fractional laser resurfacing treatments depending on the indication, age of the scar, depth of the scar and individual ability to generate collagen. Usually, at RENDER clinic, fractional Co2 treatments are planned as sets of 2-3 treatments 6-8 weeks apart, and the clinical response reassessed before proceeding to the next plan of treatment. To give an idea, a grade IV acne scarring may require anywhere between 8-10 sessions over 12-18 months, to see response rates anywhere between 50-75%, depending on the pliability of the scar. Well marginated scars would need more sessions, or a different treatment option, and volume loss may be require fillers.
What is the care between sessions for fractional Co2 for acne scars?
Strict sun protection is a very important requirement for a good response in acne scar treatment, and to prevent skin pigmentation from the procedure itself. Unless you can commit yourself to a very regular sunscreen habit, we recommend that you do not consider getting fractional Co2 laser done.At RENDER, the first week after the procedure involves healing creams and sunscreen. After the scabs settle, you can return to your weekly exfoliation protocol with Light Routine Gentle DIY Peel, and your daily skin recovery serum. You may additionally have 1-2 added steps for managing moisturize and cell turn over, and these would be customized for you depending on the laser protocol and settings. We recommend that you stay on a high protein diet throughout your scar plan. Adding collagen supplements or bone broth to your diet is highly recommended, as are collagen boosting antioxidants.It is very important that you do not pick, handle or scratch out the scabs, instead, allow the scabs to fall out on their own, with the healing creams.
Will the fractional laser 100% clear out my scars?
Fractional Co2 laser is among the best treatment options for scars, however, individual treatment responses vary. There can be no guarantee made as to how much each person will respond with a given protocol. Customization, protocol iteration, changing over or combining the treatment with another device or modality, sequential therapies – may all be required to achieve results. So we recommend that you have realistic expectations, when you sign up for laser treatments at RENDER Clinic.
You can check out the fractional Co2 laser before and after pictures under the scar section, here. You can request an appointment for treating acne scars by mailing your name and contact number to consult@renderclinic.com
