CO2RE Skin Rejuvenation
CO2RE technology uses a precisely directed laser to activate collagen development in the skin for a smoother, more uniform complexion in as little as one treatment. The laser penetrates both superficial and deeper strata of the skin, helping to resurface and rejuvenate all layers. The high-tech laser of CO2RE technology has the unique benefit of four treatment modes, which allow for distinct treatment of all patients. These alternative modes go deep into the dermis of the skin serving to reduce the appearance of pores and acne scars on the surface of the skin.
During your consultation a practitioner will assess your needs and determine your suitability for treatment. The state-of-the-art CO2RE laser has a treatment mode for any skin concern, generating dramatic results without any of the associated costs and undesirable downtime of invasive procedures. The CO2RE laser technology is best for skin resurfacing, correcting an imbalanced skin tone, scar revision, and much more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DOES IT HURT?
Your practitioner will actively make sure you are comfortable throughout the entire procedure. You may receive a topical anesthetic prior to the treatment to alleviate any mild discomfort. Most patients feel warm or hot “pinches” upon laser treatment, but Novocain injections or other numbing medication can be used to help reduce discomfort in certain sensitive areas. Your practitioner may recommend a subcutaneous anesthetic, oral pain reliever, or sedative during the procedure, depending on the depth of the treatment.
After the treatment sessions, patients often report feeling the sensation of sunburn in the areas treated by the CO2RE laser. This feeling will normally only last for the first four to twenty-four hours following the procedure. Any possible discomfort or swelling can be lessened by applying an ice pack to sore regions, or taking Ibuprofen or Tylenol as needed.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Your practitioner will review what to expect post-treatment with you after your procedure, but all patients can usually expect to see some redness and swelling immediately following the laser treatment. Redness and swelling severity may be milder in areas treated with a lighter procedure, whereas deeply treated regions may have redness lasting 1 to 2 weeks after the session. Patients often express feeling a sunburn sensation immediately following the treatment, which usually lasts only a few hours. In the 7-10 days after treatment, patients may experience the common indications of the procedure working to rejuvenate and resurface your skin. Some of these signs may include a natural peeling and flaking of the skin in the areas that were specifically targeted by the laser.
Some patients may also notice a slight “pinkness” to skin treated by the CO2RE laser, which usually lasts anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks depending on the skin’s composition and intensity of the treatment. Cover-up makeup can usually be employed to hide the pink color. Other symptoms of deeper treatments include pinpoint bleeding or oozing and possible crusting on the skin. Your practitioner will provide you with specific instructions in order to care for these situations, which are usually resolved in 2 to 3 days. Depending on the depth of the procedure, patients are generally advised to plan on 2 to 5 days at home for initial recovery, however deeper procedures may potentially require some additional recovery days.
Sweat is known to cause irritation in the skin and worsen redness and swelling after a procedure, so major aerobic exercise is not recommended for 24 to 48 hours following the treatment. After this initial period, you may exercise to your comfort level.
Practitioners highly advise avoiding direct sunlight and faithfully applying sunscreen during the healing and revitalization process of the skin. Excess sun exposure may cause undesirable pigmentation alterations and unbalanced skin tone. Patients must apply UVA/UVB SPF 30 or above sunscreen prior to treatment sessions in order to makeup for at least 6 months post treatment procedures.
WHAT KIND OF RESULTS SHOULD I EXPECT?
During your initial consultation, your practitioner will advise you on the nature of the results that you should expect from the CO2RE laser treatments depending on your desired outcome. After the procedure, patients may continue to see enhancements in their skin for up to 3 months while new collage in being produced. The new collagen helps plump up the skin, soften and smooth out wrinkles, scars, lines and other unfavorable imperfections.