How does the fractional CO2 laser work?
During skin resurfacing with a fractional CO2 laser, the device creates thousands of microchannels in the skin, while always leaving intact areas in between. From these preserved zones, an intense healing process begins, during which the skin undergoes regeneration.
The micro-injuries heal very quickly, which significantly reduces the risk of complications. Each area exposed to the laser microbeam, known as a microcrater, is surrounded by a layer of reversibly heated collagen. This initiates collagen remodelling and, as a result, increases skin firmness. The formation of new collagen continues for 3 to 6 months, and during this time the appearance of the skin continues to improve.
In the case of the fractional CO2 laser, the precision of the procedure and the perfectly perpendicular delivery of laser pulses into the tissue are also important. This has a major impact on the quality and effectiveness of the treatment, as well as on post-treatment recovery.
Which fractional laser do we use at Dr Parda Clinic in Warsaw?
At our clinic, we use a modern fractional CO2 laser distinguished by exceptional effectiveness. It is unique worldwide for such a broad spectrum of action. In addition, treatments performed with this device are safe for the patient, do not cause discomfort, and do not require a long healing period. These properties are confirmed by CE and FDA certifications.
Indications for fractional CO2 laser treatment
Patients with virtually any skin concern may qualify for laser therapy. Fractional CO2 laser treatments are recommended for skin laxity on the face, neck, décolletage, and other areas of the body. These procedures also help reduce wrinkles, folds, and enlarged pores.
At Dr Parda Clinic in Warsaw, we also perform treatments for younger patients. These procedures are carried out preventively in order to slow down the ageing process. In addition, fractional laser treatment is used for post-acne and post-traumatic scars, as well as for the reduction of stretch marks.
What does a fractional CO2 laser treatment look like?
At Dr Parda Clinic in Piaseczno, treatments are performed by an experienced physician. Before the procedure begins, we apply local anaesthesia to the patient’s skin using a specialist cream. Then, after thorough cleansing and disinfection of the skin, the physician treats the selected area with the laser. The device is equipped with a cooling system, which increases patient comfort during the procedure and minimises the risk of complications. The procedure requires a temporary break from daily activities.
What are the results of fractional CO2 laser treatments?
Skin resurfacing with a fractional CO2 laser:
- reduces fine wrinkles,
- improves skin tone and texture,
- closes enlarged pores and restores skin firmness.
More aggressive treatment using high-energy, deeply penetrating pulses eliminates deep wrinkles, scars (including raised scars, known as keloids), and stretch marks.
What does recovery after fractional CO2 laser treatment look like?
After the procedure, the skin is rough, slightly swollen, and red. Swelling around the eyes may also occur. These symptoms subside within 3 days. The first effects of the treatment are then visible. After 3–4 days, patients can return to work. Healing occurs 7–10 days after the procedure, depending on its intensity. Recovery time is shortest in patients with thick, well-hydrated skin.
The final result of the treatment is achieved within 6 months after the therapy is completed. Procedures aimed at treating skin laxity or reducing wrinkles should be repeated 2–4 times in order to achieve full skin renewal. The typical interval between treatments is 4–5 weeks, depending on how intensive the previous session was.
Indications
- scars (post-acne, post-traumatic, post-burn, post-surgical)
- sun-induced, drug-induced, hormonal, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- wrinkles and skin laxity around the eyes and mouth (including the eyelids)
- skin laxity of the face, arms, and abdomen
- stretch marks
- enlarged pores
- photo-damage and photoageing of the skin
Contraindications
- pregnancy and breastfeeding
- use of oral retinoids
- taking medications or herbs that increase photosensitivity
- skin cancers
- active skin infections
- chronic inflammatory skin diseases
- photodermatoses
- diabetes
- epilepsy
- tendency to develop hypertrophic scars and keloids