Fractional CO2 laser

"The fractionated CO2 laser is the gold standard in skin renewal therapy. The system achieves effects both on the surface and in the depth of the skin. This reduces the effects of ageing such as loss of elasticity, wrinkles and unwanted texture. Damage, such as scars caused by acne, accidents and operations, can be treated and improved in a targeted manner."

Dr. med. (I) Ikonija Koceva
Dr. med. (I) Ikonija Koceva
How it works

Fractional CO2 laser Mode of action

The CO2 laser therapy utilizes the conversion of laser pulses into heat to perform effective laser treatments for skin rejuvenation and smoothing. This technique has a dual effect: firstly, the heat removes the surface of the skin and stimulates renewal deep within the skin (ablative effect). Secondly, it uses fractional CO2 laser microscopically small beams that shoot microscopic holes through the epidermis. This allows the laser beams to reach the dermis (fractional effect). This type of treatment is called "fractional" because the energy is evenly distributed over the treatment area, in contrast to fully ablative treatments, which treat the entire skin area. The resulting micro-injuries promote the natural wound healing process and stimulate the formation of healthy collagen. As a result, your skin is completely renewed.

The CO2 laser can be used for various Skin lesions and is particularly suitable for treating wrinkles, scars and pigmentation disorders. It can be used on the face, neck, hands and décolleté.

To achieve optimum results, the CO2 laser can be combined with the Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) can be combined. After the laser treatment, the PRP is injected and also applied locally. It penetrates deep into the skin through the microchannels created by the laser and promotes healing and immediate recovery. Skin rejuvenation.

Treatment options

Fractional CO2 laser treatment options

The CO2 laser treatment is versatile and offers solutions for various skin problems:

Procedure

Fractional CO2 laser process

Preparation for the treatment

  • In our practice, before the CO2 laser therapy The area of skin to be treated is anaesthetized with a cream to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. Herpes prophylaxis should be considered if you are prone to herpes, especially when applying to the face.

During treatment

  • The application of the laser varies depending on the size of the area to be treated and can take between 10 and 60 minutes.

After treatment

  • In the first 48 hours after the CO2 fractional laser therapy the treated skin should not be covered with make-up. It is essential to follow the aftercare products we provide closely, especially in the first 4-6 weeks. The skin should be kept clean and protected daily with a sun cream with a high protection factor. Direct exposure to the sun should be avoided at all costs.
Frequently asked questions

Fractional CO2 laser Frequently asked questions

How many sessions do I need? How long should I wait between sessions?

The number of sessions depends on several factors. For classic facial skin resurfacing, which aims to rejuvenate the skin, tighten tissue, refine pores and smooth out wrinkles, three to four sessions are required at intervals of at least one month. The treatment can be combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP, autologous blood therapy) by applying the PRP under the skin with a very fine needle immediately after the treatment. Scar treatment can take longer and require more sessions. We expect three to ten sessions. In the case of proliferating, hypertrophic or keloid scars, drug delivery, for example with cortisone, can also be carried out as part of the fractionated CO2 scar treatment.

How long does it take until I see results?

In the first three to four days after treatment, the face is reddened and usually slightly swollen. Rarely do these symptoms persist. Small "spots" can also be seen, which turn into small crusts over time and peel off after about a week. The treatment triggers a long-lasting and sustainable process in which collagen and elastic fibers are newly formed and restructured. This can take weeks to months. Collagen-containing dietary supplements can be taken and specific serums can be applied to the skin to support the formation and reformation of collagen.

Are the results permanent or will I need maintenance treatments in the future?

The results are generally permanent. However, they cannot stop the natural ageing process, so maintenance treatments are recommended at least once a year.

Are there any risks?

As the skin barrier is "opened" using the laser, infections are possible in principle, but very rare. Furthermore, an acute herpes infection can be triggered in patients who are prone to recurrent herpes infections. Wound healing may be impaired when taking certain medications, e.g. isotretinoin. Existing acne can be aggravated, so that the fractionated CO2 laser can only be used after the inflammation has healed. The reformation of collagen can be hindered by immunosuppressants such as cortisone or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, so treatment with long-term use of these is not recommended. Hyperpigmentation may occur in darker skin types or in overly aggressive settings. Incorrect application can also lead to burning or scarring. In any case, consistent sun protection should be used for six weeks after treatment.

Is it painful?

Fractional CO2 laser treatment is slightly painful, but generally easy to tolerate. An anesthetic cream is applied around 30 minutes before the treatment, which makes the treatment more pleasant. An additional painkiller such as Dafalgan can be taken one hour before the treatment if desired.
Further information

Further information

Publications
Procedural dermatology: the diversity of fractional techniques.
Nasri, J./Rümmelein, B. / Aesthetic dermatology skinMAG, Issue 2/22: 30-32
Publications
Fractional techniques in procedural dermatology.
Rümmelein, B. / Leading Opinions Dermatology & Plastic Surgery 2022; 2: 38-40.
Article
CO2-fractionated laser resurfacing in combination with PRP
Firat Aslanel
Article
Laser & Wavelengths
Dr. med. C. Bettina Rümmelein

Further information

Publications
Procedural dermatology: the diversity of fractional techniques.
Nasri, J./Rümmelein, B. / Aesthetic dermatology skinMAG, Issue 2/22: 30-32
Publications
Fractional techniques in procedural dermatology.
Rümmelein, B. / Leading Opinions Dermatology & Plastic Surgery 2022; 2: 38-40.
Article
CO2-fractionated laser resurfacing in combination with PRP
Firat Aslanel
Article
Laser & Wavelengths
Dr. med. C. Bettina Rümmelein