OVERVIEW

The goal of the Pixel CO2 Fractional Laser (by Alma) is to reduce age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, pores, uneven coloration dull tone, and acne scars. A fractionate technology means that laser light is divided into a pattern of ultra-fine dots. This leaves microscopic islands of skin intact between the lasered areas to speed healing and reduce discomfort. It works by vaporizing the outer layer of the skin in a controlled manner, a process known as ablation. As the skin heals from being ablated, new collagen production within the skin is stimulated. It is the best single treatment for advanced skin damage and wrinkles.

CO2 is an in-office procedure that requires pre- and post-treatment medications to ensure proper healing and comfort during the procedure. Discomfort varies on the depth of the treatment. For your comfort during the treatment a topical and local anesthetic are provided. After the treatment most patients describe the post-procedure feeling as bad sunburn, and swelling for 2-3 days, afterwards once the inflammation soubise the appearance of dark small raised dots will show. We also recommend pain or relaxation medications prior to treatment therefore you will need to have somebody drive you home after the treatment.

Depending on the area and the aggressiveness of the treatment, it will take 7-14 days for the skin to heal. This social downtime will include significant redness, crusting (possibly minor bleeding and oozing depending on treatment depth), dryness, peeling and flaking. Social and workout activities will have to be avoided during this time, although you should be perfectly capable of working from home after the first day or two. (Keep in mind that your skin will continue to improve for six months following your treatment). After the initial 7-14 days of “social downtime” you can still have redness that can persist for weeks-months after the procedure, depending on the depth of the procedure.

Number of treatments varies on each patient. In an area that cannot be treated aggressively, we may need to do more than one treatment to optimize results. Maintenance treatments may also be necessary to maintain results.