CO2 Laser Resurfacing

I am interested in learning more about the CO2 laser [Dermal Optical Thermolysis] - what type of results can I expect from this treatment? What is the estimated down time? Is this a series of treatments? --L.T.


Dr. Jennifer Younggren: I am glad that you asked! The CO2 laser is an ablative laser that resurfaces the skin. It can be used on the face, neck, chest, hands - anywhere a client desires an improvement of skin texture and tone.

This technology has been used for years, but there was a significant drawback that kept folks from trying it - downtime. The newer technology uses a fractional approach - treating only a percentage of the skin over the entire face. This is done with the 'dots', or very small areas of treatment with the laser, evenly spaced over the treatment area. This results in much less thermal injury to the skin, and much less down time. In fact, social down time for this procedure is usually only 2-4 days - a weekend for most folks!

We are using this treatment to treat skin texture and combat signs of aging. It really helps with fine lines and wrinkles, which can be hard to treat with any of our other modalities. This is also an effective treatment for acne scarring - another difficult to treat issue. There has been success as well with using the CO2 fractional for refractory redness and age spots, although the IPL will still be the first line of treatment for these skin issues.

Most clients will receive the most benefit from two treatments, performed 4-6 weeks apart. If you are just wanting a general tightening and 'freshening up' of the skin, then one treatment will suffice, but for most folks (and definitely for acne scar clients) two will be the recommended protocol.

When you show up for your treatment, your face will be cleansed. If you have purchased a 'platinum package' you will then have a microdermabrasion to remove dead skin cells prior to treatment. If not, we will use the Clarisonic for this purpose. We will then apply a layer of topical numbing cream to enhance your comfort, and you will relax for 20-30 minutes. Then, we will will perform the procedure, which will take 15-20 minutes to complete. We will then apply a soothing post treatment balm, and you will be able to go home.

Sun avoidance is required for 72 hours post procedure. During this time you can cleanse your skin with sensitive skin cleanser (this is provided with the platinum package, and purchased separately otherwise), and moisturize and protect with the post procedure balm that we will provide for you. On day 3, mineral makeup can be used, and pinkness will have receded to the point that most clients will feel socially comfortable. By day four you can transition to sensitive cleanser, ceramide cream (also required), and sunblock, and be out and about in the world with very minimal pinkness!

Of course, every client is different, but I wanted to try to summarize the experience for you so that you will know what to expect if you decide to proceed. You would then return for your second treatment in 4-6 weeks.

We are so excited and pleased to finally be able to offer an ablative treatment to our clients, and yet have it be advanced enough that they will not have the weeks of social down time of past technology.

Brad and I will be in the office offering this treatment on May 14-15 and May 20-22. Feel free to call Juve at (253) 472-0507 Wed-Sat to make your appointment or if you have any questions.