Fractional Co2 Laser For Acne Scars, Stretch Marks And Rejuvenation

In a fractional laser system, only a fraction of the skin is exposed to the laser beam. There are areas of treated skin alternating with areas of untreated skin.

In a conventional laser system the entire area of skin is treated with the laser beam. As a result of this the healing takes a longer time. The down time is more. In a fractional laser system only a part of the skin is treated with the laser beam. There are areas of normal skin in between the treated areas. These areas of normal skin help in faster healing with little down time.

Collagen is the main protein that keeps skin looking young and line free. Over time sun exposure, pollution and the natural process of aging destroys collagen therefore increasing wrinkles. The CO2 fractional treatment laser uses light energy to create multiple microscopic wounds in the skin. When these wounds heal, it leads to new collagen formation by the body and reducing wrinkles, fine lines, stretch marks and scars.

Usually a numbing cream is applied 2 hours prior to the procedure. With this the skin gets numb and usually no pain is experienced.

For acne scars 4 to 6 sittings are required at intervals of 4 to 8 weeks. For stretch marks and facial rejuvenation 3 to 5 sittings are required at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks.

There is redness of the skin which may last for 2 to 5 days. Mild burning sensation for a day or so.The skin gets dry, dark and peels off over 2 to 4 days.

Immediately after the procedure cold compresses are given to reduce the burning sensation. Moisturising cream along with an antibiotics cream are applied. This is followed by application of a sunscreen. At home the patient is advised to clean the area with cold water and a mild cleanser. The Moisturiser, Antibiotic Cream and Sunscreen to be applied round the clock till the skin has peeled of. Oral Antibiotics are given for 5 days.

There is improvement in the skin texture and complexion. The scars and the stretch marks get better with every sitting. There is reduction in the fine lines.

There is reduction of laxity of skin. The remodeling of tissue continues for a period of 4 to 6 months after the procedure. The final results are appreciated 6 to 9 months after a series of sittings.

The procedure if done using proper laser parameters and with proper post procedure care, the chances of complication are minimum. There can be secondary infection .The redness can persist for a longer time. These are manageable.In patients with darker complexion, there is a possibility of post procedure Hyper Pigmentation. With proper care this can be managed.