What is the treatment for?
Depending on the protocol, the CO2 laser may be considered for skin-surface renewal (CoolPeel), smoother texture, fine lines around the eyes or mouth, medical laser treatment of the eyelids, acne scars or certain benign skin lesions after examination.
The fractional mode treats the skin in dots, leaving islands of intact skin between them. This favours faster healing than a treatment covering the whole surface. The mode and density are chosen according to the goal.
It does not treat every aesthetic concern. Pigmentation or volume loss often requires a different treatment.
Who is it for?
For someone whose indication has been confirmed, and who can accept downtime suited to the intensity of the procedure. Phototype, tanning, infection, cold sores, medication and healing strongly change the decision.
Planned sun exposure just after the session is a reason to postpone. Recent isotretinoin treatment must be mentioned.
Areas concerned
The face, eye contour, eyelids, perioral area and scarred areas may be treated, depending on the examination. The quote specifies the agreed treatment area.
- Facial CoolPeel
- Eye contour / periorbital area
- Eyelids (medical laser approach)
- Acne scars, scars, stretch marks
- Certain selected benign lesions
How a session generally unfolds
After consultation, the skin is cleaned and a surface anaesthetic is often applied. The eyes are protected. The handpiece moves over the area according to the chosen setting. A sensation of heat or stinging is usual. A test or a gradual approach may be preferable.
Soothing care and suitable protection are applied at the end of the session. Healing instructions are explained before you leave.
What kind of result
The improvement, when it occurs, concerns texture, certain wrinkles or scar relief, gradually as the skin renews itself. It is never total nor guaranteed. The result is judged once the skin has calmed, after the healing phase.
How it changes over time
Redness, warmth, peeling, small crusts or a dotted look may appear for a few days depending on intensity. The deeper the procedure, the longer the downtime. Redness may then persist for longer.
Several sessions may be needed for some indications, spaced to respect skin recovery.
Possible after-effects
Redness, swelling, a superficial burning sensation, peeling. Risks to know: pigmentation, infection, scarring, a cold sore flare. They are detailed before the procedure.
General precautions
Avoid the sun before and after the session, and protect the skin according to instructions. Follow the prescribed care. Do not pick at crusts. Report severe pain or a suspected infection immediately.
Sun protection does not replace avoiding the sun during healing.
Questions
What is CoolPeel?
It is a more superficial CO2 treatment mode, often chosen to work on skin quality with more limited downtime than a deep resurfacing. The exact protocol is decided in consultation.
What does “fractional” mean?
The laser treats the skin in dots, separated by untreated areas. These islands of healthy skin help healing. The setting depends on the indication.
Which device is used?
A DuoGlide CO2 laser. Settings depend on the indication.
Prices
Prices are indicative. The treatment plan and exact quote are confirmed during consultation, according to the clinical indication.