How does a CO2 Fraxel laser work and what are the indications?

Natural aging, sun exposure, hormonal changes and acne are some of the factors that can damage and age the skin. Fortunately, there are several methods to improve and rejuvenate the skin, including the CO2 Fraxel laser. In this blog we will take a closer look at the CO2-fraxel laser, how it works, what indications it has and what the advantages and disadvantages are.

What is the CO2 Fraxel Laser?

CO2 Fraxel Laser Treatment is a highly effective method of skin rejuvenation and renewal. It is an advanced and innovative technology that uses fractionated carbon dioxide (CO2) laser beams to improve and rejuvenate the skin. The laser beam is controlled and aimed at specific areas of the skin, creating tiny microscopic holes. These holes ensure that the skin can repair and renew itself.

The microscopic holes created by the CO2 Fraxel laser treatment activate the skin’s natural healing process and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are proteins that occur naturally in the skin and are essential for healthy skin. Collagen provides firmness and elasticity, while elastin provides flexibility and resilience. As we age, the skin’s natural production of collagen and elastin decreases, making the skin slack and less elastic.

The CO2 Fraxel laser treatment can help improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and fade scars and pigmentation spots. In addition, it can help treat other skin conditions, such as melasma, acne, and rosacea.

Indications for the CO2-fraxel laser

The CO2-fraxel laser is often used for the treatment of acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, pigment spots, sun damage and aging of the skin. It can also help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and even out skin tone and texture.

Here are some cases in which the CO2 fraxel laser can not or can be used less:

1. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are not recommended to undergo this treatment due to the risk of complications and unknown effects on the fetus.
2. Active skin infections: If you currently have an active skin infection, such as cold sores or acne, you should not have a CO2 fraxel laser treatment. Treatment can make the infection worse and spread to other areas of the skin.
3. Sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin, the CO2 fraxel laser treatment may be too intense for your skin and may lead to irritation and other side effects.
4. Skin conditions: If you suffer from certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea, the CO2 fraxel laser treatment can aggravate these conditions and lead to complications.
5. Tanned skin: It is recommended not to have the treatment if you currently have tanned skin. The risk of complications and side effects is higher with sun-tanned skin.
6. Medication: Some medications may slow healing after treatment or increase the risk of complications. If you are currently taking any medications, you should discuss this with your dermatologist before undergoing the CO2 fraxel laser treatment. Consider, for example, blood-thinning medicines, other medicines such as some antibiotics (tetracycline groups), isotretinoin and corticosteroids must be reported in order to prevent or reduce the risk of complications.

Advantages of the CO2 Fraxel

One of the advantages of the CO2-fraxel laser treatment is that it is a very precise and controlled treatment. This means it causes little damage to surrounding tissues, minimizing the risk of complications and side effects. The recovery process from the treatment is also usually quite quick and painless. Another advantage of the CO2-fraxel laser is that it is an effective and safe method to rejuvenate and improve the skin. The treatment is relatively painless and requires minimal downtime. In addition, it can be applied to various parts of the body, including the face, neck, chest and hands.

Disadvantages of the CO2 Fraxel

As with any medical treatment, there are also disadvantages associated with the CO2-fraxel laser. One of the downsides is that it can lead to redness, swelling, and itching, although these side effects are usually short-lived. Another drawback is that it is not suitable for all skin types. People with dark skin or people who are prone to scarring should consider a different treatment.

The CO2 Fraxel laser is an effective and safe method to rejuvenate and improve the skin. It can help treat a variety of skin conditions and has relatively few drawbacks. However, it is important to have a thorough evaluation by a qualified dermatologist prior to treatment to determine if the treatment is right for your skin type and condition. For more information or an appointment, please contact SKN2.

Also think about skin care after a treatment

After a CO2 Fraxel laser treatment, it is important to take good care of your skin to support the healing process and achieve the best result. Iconic Elements Anti-Aging Cream with vitamins C, E and ferulic acid can help with this. This cream has a strong antioxidant effect that protects the skin against harmful external influences and slows down the process of skin aging. It is unscented and therefore suitable for sensitive skin. By regularly applying this cream, the skin can recover faster after the CO2-fraxel laser treatment and look more radiant. Discover here: Anti-aging cream