What can it treat? +
- Sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Surgical and acne scarring
- Skin tone and texture
- Skin rejuvenation
- Skin laxity
What areas can be treated? +
The C02RE treatment is commonly performed on the face and neck. It is also commonly used to treat surgical scars on the body, such as caesarean section. A thorough skin consultation and assessment will be performed to assess your suitability for this treatment.
How many treatments are required? +
The severity of the skin condition or concern will determine your specific treatment plan and this will be discussed and explained to you by your treating practitioner during your initial consult.
Many of our patients are thrilled with the results they achieve after just one session of C02RE. However, in order to achieve optimal long term results, a series of treatments may be recommended. As this is an advanced laser treatment, you usually would have only 1-3 treatments per year, ideally at 6-8 week intervals.
Maintenance sessions are often performed every 12 months depending on desired results.
What is involved in the treatment? +
Before your treatment:
- Arrive to your appointment with no makeup, fake tan or recent sun exposure on the areas you wish to have treated
- Discontinue prescription topical products 7 days before treatment (unless directed otherwise by your treating Dr)
- Discontinue any active skincare products (e.g. glycolic) approximately 3-5 days before treatment
- Advise your treating Dermatologist or Dermal Clinician of any regular medications or supplements you may be taking
During the treatment:
- An analysis will be performed to determine the most suitable treatment settings to suit your individual needs
- A numbing agent will be applied to decrease treatment discomfort and this will be left on the skin for approximately 30 minutes to an hour
- The numbing cream will be removed and you will be provided with protective laser goggles and are required to wear them for the duration of the appointment
- The C02RE treatment will begin and this usually takes 15-30 minutes
- Once the laser has finished, calming and protective aftercare products will be applied to the skin
After the treatment:
- It is very likely that the treated area will look red and slightly swollen, similar to a bad sunburn
- For the first few hours, your skin will be hot, tight and may have a bit of a stinging sensation
- The use of a cold compress or fan is encouraged to relieve discomfort
How to take care of your skin after the treatment: +
As this is a more advanced laser treatment, following specific aftercare instructions is crucial for treatment success and to prevent any unnecessary side effects or complications.
- Our Laser Resurfacing Aftercare pack is highly recommended to be used post treatment
- It is crucial that you keep the treated area a clean as possible, avoid contact with pets, smoking or the use of reusable items
- Avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50+ daily
- Avoid excessive exercise or activities that increase heart rate and body temperature until all the heat and redness has subsided
- Avoid exfoliating the skin for at least seven to ten days’ post treatment. This includes both chemical and physical exfoliating products
- Do not apply heavy body oils or moisturiser after your treatment, as this can trap heat in the skin
- The use of cold compress or ice packs is encouraged to use if needed to reduce any discomfort
Risks and treatment suitability +
With any cosmetic treatment, there are associated risks and complications. These risks are unlikely and rare, and occurrence can be dramatically reduced and managed well if you adhere to the instructions and advice given to you by your treating practitioner.
Risks:
- Prolonged redness and swelling
- Unwanted pigment changes
- Herpes reactivation
- Burns and blisters
- Lack of results
- Acne purge
- Infection
- Scarring
You be may be unsuitable to have this treatment if you;
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Are experiencing any active infections e.g. cold sores
- Are experiencing facial eczema, rosacea or dermatitis
- Have any fake tan or gradual tanning product on the treatment area
- Have had recent sunburn or direct sun exposure in the treatment area
- Are currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
