Rewind your age with Skin resurfacing and rejuvenation

eCO2 is a fractionated CO2 laser system. This ablative laser can deliver significant skin resurfacing outcomes for patients seeking to improve wrinkles, scars, pigmentation and many other skin issues. It is a newer and safer improvement on traditional CO2 laser skin resurfacing. With smart technology that optimises delivery of the laser bursts, patients often experience improved comfort, fewer risks and faster recovery times compared to other laser treatments.

Fractional laser resurfacing appeals to a variety of patients, from those who want more significant results to those who only need to repair light damage. The procedure reduces skin imperfections while simultaneously promoting collagen regeneration for long-term, visible improvements in the skin’s texture, tone and colour.

Fractionated laser technology selectively targets a fraction of the skin in the treatment area, leaving small micro-wounds surrounded by untouched tissue. The body’s natural healing process responds to these wounds by creating new tissue and collagen to restore the skin.

In the lead-up to your eCO2 treatment, be extremely diligent about sun protection. Apply sunscreen regularly and limit time spent in direct sunlight. Your dermatologist may prescribe a skin lightening cream to use for four weeks prior to the procedure. These steps reduce the risk of developing unwanted pigmentation after the treatment.

You will be prepared for the procedure with a thorough skin cleansing and a topical anaesthetic cream. You will also be given eye protection to wear during the treatment. Your clinician will then carefully scan the laser handpiece over the targeted area. You will feel a prickly sensation, often compared to the snap of a rubber band, on your skin. You will also hear the sound of the fume extractor (air suction). Depending on the scope of the procedure, laser skin resurfacing typically takes between 15 minutes and 40 minutes to complete.

Everyone experiences discomfort to varying degrees. Your clinician will determine how to minimise your discomfort during the procedure. Topical anaesthetic is applied and sometimes oral medications are prescribed. A cooling device can also be used to improve comfort. Administering a nerve block is another option that completely numbs the area being treated.

After an eCO2 laser treatment, you may experience the following:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Serous discharge
• Peeling
• Infection  
• Pigmentary changes (redness, darkening or lightening) 

If you are prone to cold sores, please notify your clinician. Your dermatologist will prescribe prophylactic antiviral tablets. We will also test you for staph carriage and prescribe an appropriate treatment prior to the resurfacing procedure to reduce the rate of infection.

eCO2’s fractionated technology lowers the risk of pigmentation changes. Pre-treatment preparation of your skin further reduces the chance of these side effects.

The recovery for most patients after eCO2 laser treatment ranges from one to two weeks.

First phase: Upon completion of the treatment, patients typically feel some discomfort in the treated area. Your skin will be swollen and red and may ooze serous fluid. These conditions last for the first two to three days.

Second phase: Over days three and four, the redness fades and the skin starts to feel tight and dry. It may begin to peel. At this stage, you can resume wearing makeup.

Third phase: In the final stage of recovery, the peeling finishes. Redness can persist and your skin may feel a little sensitive, but you can resume most activities. Complete recovery is expected within seven to 10 days.

Light, superficial laser treatments require minimal to no downtime. Expect a longer recovery period if the treatment is more aggressive for deeper scars and wrinkles. Your doctor will discuss recovery expectations with you during your consultation. The treatment settings can be tailored to your tolerance of downtime.