CO2 Laser
Every day is a new battle for our skin. And while it does a fantastic job of protecting our body from the outdoor elements, your skin may develop a few battle scars along the way.
Those battle scars are nothing to be ashamed of, but they certainly don’t need to overstay their welcome – especially with the incredible CO2 laser resurfacing technology we have at New Era Medical Aesthetics and Laser Center.
What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser resurfacing is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses targeted beams of light to remove the outermost, superficial layer of skin (also known as the epidermis). CO2 lasers have been around for more than 60 years, but doctors and dermatologists didn’t start using them for laser skin resurfacing until the mid-1990s. Today, CO2 lasers are one of the most popular and effective tools for treating a wide range of skincare concerns and conditions.
How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?
CO2 laser resurfacing works in two distinct ways. First, it uses a specialized laser to emit an invisible infrared beam of light at a wavelength ranging from 9,300 to 10,600 nm. At that specific length, the energy (heat) is absorbed by the water found in skin cells – which are vaporized when the water turns into gas. This is the laser’s ablative effect, meaning it removes the outer layer of skin, like a chemical peel.
But that’s not the only thing CO2 lasers do for the skin. In addition to removing the epidermis, the heat travels to the dermis (the middle layer of skin). It creates a thermal injury, which helps stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin—two proteins that give skin flexibility, elasticity and strength. As the skin heals, it develops a new, healthier outer layer equipped with a higher concentration of collagen and elastin, leaving you with tighter, smoother, brighter, more elastic and younger-looking skin.
What Are the Benefits of CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Acne, surgical, or traumatic scarring
- Sun damage from excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays
- Age spots, brown spots, hyperpigmentation, and skin discoloration
- Uneven skin tone or skin texture
- Benign skin growths, such as warts
- Linear epidermal nevi, also known as birthmarks
Who Is a Candidate for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing can do so much for many people, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe and effective for everyone. In fact, it can do more harm than good if performed on the wrong patient or skin type.
You might not be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing if you have active acne, deep wrinkles, or a darker skin tone – though new technological advancements are opening doors for some. We can help you make your decision during your one-on-one consultation.
Before & After Photos
Explore our before and after gallery to witness the remarkable transformations that have left our clients feeling more confident and beautiful than ever. From subtle enhancements to dramatic makeovers, our gallery showcases the artistry of transformation.
The CO2 Laser Resurfacing Procedure: Step by Step
Preparing for Treatment
During your initial consultation, your doctor will listen to your concerns and perform a thorough review of your medical history and current health. They’ll also ask you what you hope to achieve with treatment. Once they’ve confirmed that you’re a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing, your doctor will provide a detailed list of instructions for you to follow in the days and weeks leading up to the procedure. At New Era Medical, we often ask our patients to avoid aspirin, blood-thinning medication, smoking, and certain skincare products (especially ones that contain retinol) for at least two weeks prior to treatment. It also helps to stay hydrated, eat a healthy, well-balanced diet daily, and maintain a regular sleep routine.During the Treatment
When you show up for the procedure, your doctor will apply a numbing cream (or anesthesia, if needed) to reduce any pain or discomfort during treatment – allowing you to relax and feel at ease throughout. Once the numbing cream takes effect, your treatment begins. Your doctor will use a device that emits laser energy onto the skin to remove the epidermis. Most patients will feel a light, highly tolerable snapping or pricking sensation as the pulsing laser makes contact with the skin. The treatment takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how large the treatment area is.After the Treatment
Once the procedure comes to a conclusion, your doctor will apply a healing cream (similar to Aquaphor) onto the face to initiate and promote the healing process. And much like they did during the consultation, they’ll give you a detailed list of aftercare instructions that must be followed for a successful recovery. Every patient needs to understand that aftercare is just as important as the procedure itself. As the skin heals, most patients can expect a considerable amount of redness and weeping of the skin for the first week, but certain ointments will be provided to help speed up the healing and recovery process. It usually takes several weeks for the skin to fully heal. During that time, you’ll be asked to limit exposure to the sun, apply cold compresses, and avoid makeup and other harsh skincare products.Why Choose NewEra Medical for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
Here at New Era Medical Aesthetics and Laser Center, we take pride in our European approach, which allows us to ensure our patients receive the best care using the latest technology and techniques.
Our founder, Dr. Liliana Manrique, has more than 30 years of experience in the field. She uses her surgical, European, artistic and aesthetic knowledge of the skin to maximize each patient’s results.
She’s also a Fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery and board-certified by ABIM and the American Board of Medical Specialties, and she’s an active member of several other organizations and associations across the United States and Europe.
Schedule Your Consultation With NewEra Medical Today!
It’s normal to have questions about CO2 laser resurfacing, and our team would be honored to answer all of them during your consultation. While we take pride in serving the Vienna, VA community, we also accept and welcome patients from all over the world, including Europe.
Contact us by calling (561) 600-6538 or clicking here to schedule your consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s common to have questions about Co2 Laser Resurfacing. You can trust Dr. Manrique to give you a thorough and thoughtful answer to your queries.
The most frequently asked questions about Co2 Laser Resurfacing include the following:
CO2 laser treatment is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort. Some patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but topical numbing creams or cooling techniques are often used to minimize any sensations.
The recovery period for CO2 laser treatment varies depending on the depth of the treatment and individual healing factors. Generally, it takes about 1-2 weeks for the skin to fully heal, during which time you may experience redness, swelling, and peeling.
Yes, the treatment stimulates collagen production, which continues to improve the skin’s appearance even after the initial healing process. However, to maintain the results, it’s essential that you protect your skin from potential sun damage and follow a healthy skincare routine.
We understand that when considering any medical, aesthetic, or regenerative treatment, one of the foremost concerns is about comfort and potential pain. Pro-Nox™ is our response to that very concern. Crafted using an FDA-cleared blend of 50/50 Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen, Pro-Nox™ empowers patients to manage their comfort by self-administering the gas as required. This precise mixture is tailored to provide a momentary relief from pain and anxiety, without inducing a deep sedative state. With Pro-Nox™, we prioritize your comfort, ensuring each procedure is a more manageable and reassuring experience.