Facials get you glowing and dermaplaning gets you smooth, but when you’re ready for a robust rejuvenation, the Fractional C02 Laser does the most powerful job on a multitude of skin issues. This procedure firms skin, rebuilds collagen, and reduces age spots, acne scars, keloids, and wrinkles.
Best of all, just three or four days of downtime (you’ll be fine to work but may want Zoom video OFF during meetings) gets you months to a year or two of smoother, tighter skin, and a more even skin tone. Our patients appreciate getting so many issues resolved after just one treatment.
And it’s not just our patients who are pleased with the dramatic difference the Fractional C02 Laser can make. After 93% of RealSelf reviewers declared Fractional C02 Laser “Worth It,” the publication made it a “Most Worth It” honoree.
To focus on one fan, sixty-six-year-old celebrity Ellen Barkin freely shares her use of Fractional C02 Laser treatments with journalists. Unlike most of her colleagues, Barkin stays away from surgical facelifts. She prolongs Fractional C02 Laser’s benefits with a dedicated skincare regimen. A hydrating, antioxidant-packed skin-care routine and consistent sunscreen use prolong the benefits the laser treatment brings. Kim Khardashian, too, has admitted to using Fractional C02 Lasers to maintain that rich Mediterranean glow.
Ellen Barkin in 2018, age 63. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Is the Fractional C02 Laser Right for You?
Once you’ve decided you’re ready for rejuvenation, you have many treatment choices.
Whether you’ll go with a chemical-, light-or heat-based treatment depends on the issues you most want to rectify, your budget, and your timeline.
The cosmetic procedures that involve no downtime are nick-named “lunchtime” procedures. These gentler ones usually require several treatments to attain the best effects, but you won’t have to deal with peeling skin making events or zoom meetings awkward. Fractional C02 Laser is considered one of the more intense treatments, and it does involve some peeling and redness lasting several days.
This table delineates the features of each laser treatment to clarify important differences.
| Treatment | Addresses | Downtime | Treatments required | Treats skin’s | Ablation involved? |
| Fractional C02 Laser |
Skin laxity Acne scars Fine lines Wrinkles Age/Brown Spots
|
3-5 days | 1 – 2 | Surface and middle layers | Yes – “micro” ablation |
| Photofacial |
Age spots Broken blood vessels |
Little to None | 4-6 | Surface |
No
|
| Laser Genesis |
Fine lines Pores Acne scars |
Little to None | 6 – 8 | Surface and middle layers | Yes |
| Titan Laser | Skin laxity on jowls, cheeks, forehead | Little to none | 3 | Deep layer | No |
| Laser Vein |
Face and leg veins Broken blood vessels |
Several hours to a day | 1 – 5 | veins | No |
The best way to consider whether you need the Fractional C02 Laser or another treatment is by coming in to see us about your unique skin issues.
At Essex Medspa, we review these factors to fully customize your ideal treatment:
Skin Tone and Condition
While the original ablative C02 Laser developed in the 1960s could cause scarring in those with darker skin tones, today’s Fractional version is gentle enough so that those with more pigment can get the benefits. Still, very dark pigmented skin does better with other solutions.
Age
Fractional C02 Laser is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for mild to moderate wrinkles. Those in their 50s and 60s with deep wrinkles and significantly loose skin, however, get the best results with a surgical facelift.
Medical Issues
Fractional CO2 lasers are safe for nearly everyone, except darker skin tones. Keep in mind, however, that it isn’t typically used for the vascular issues behind skin redness or rosacea. Photofacials, which use a broad spectrum of light, work better for these issues. We also do not recommend Fractional C02 Laser treatment for anyone with active acne.
Time Period
How many days, weeks, or months do you have to look your best? Are you preparing for a big event?
Those wanting to get firm and glowing for an occasion coming up in under a week need to go with the low-downtime, “lunchtime” procedures like a photofacial, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, a chemical peel, or even our milder laser treatment, Laser Genesis. Most of these procedures involve several initial treatments and regular maintenance often on a bi-monthly or quarterly basis.
While Fractional C02 Laser’s benefits for the skin’s surface are apparent once the healing (redness, peeling) process completes, it takes a month or two for your natural collagen to build the skin firmness and contouring associated with youth.
Why Is This Treatment Called “Fractional?”
Invented in 1964, ablative (skin-removing) CO2 lasers have a proven history of use and robust evidence about their effectiveness and safety. In the early 2000s, device manufacturers, dermatologists, and doctors began replacing intense, fully-ablative lasers with “Fractional” C02 Lasers. “Fractional” means these devices deliver a partial beam of light to a more limited fraction of the skin. We adjust the volume and depth of the area treated by patient needs and goals.
Ready to Unleash the Power of the Fractional C02 Laser?
The surgical facelift may not be the only–or even best–solution for you!
When you can’t decide which skin issue to tackle first, why not knock several out with one treatment?
Of course, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations when undergoing any cosmetic procedure. The C02 Fractional Laser won’t completely remove acne scars, wrinkles, age spots, and more, but our patients have told us it helps them look and feel years younger. Essex Medspa equips you with hydrating, antioxidant skincare formulas that ensure your laser benefits persist. Following this regimen diligently will get your skin tight and glowing in a matter of weeks. Make sure, too, to apply sunscreen before leaving the house every day.
If you’re interested in addressing the effects of aging, the environment, and scarring, please call 303-973-3683 or ask your questions on our online form. We’ll be sure to get back to you by the next business day.
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