Treatment
Fractional CO2 laser
Price
Face: 400 CHF / session
Hands: 300 CHF / session
What is it for
The fractional CO2 laser is used to improve skin texture, visibly reduce superficial wrinkles and to treat all types of scars (post-traumatic, surgical or post-acneal to give a few examples). It has already been used in dermatology for over 15 years but is still considered one of the best technologies available for treating the situations listed above. In addition to these therapeutic indications, the CO2 laser also promotes tissue regenerative processes, with production of new collagen, with overall improvement in the appearance of the treated skin. The two main actions of the fractional CO2 laser, i.e. regenerative stimulation and superficial ablation, make it possible to treat a wide range of conditions. It is recommended to avoid UV exposure in the period following each treatment to avoid side effects such as hyperpigmentation.
How it works
The CO2 laser can be used in different modalities (surgical or fractional laser) or combined with other technologies (e.g. with radiofrequency) and can therefore be used in different dermatological conditions, finding surgical or purely medical-aesthetic applications. When used in fractional mode it causes thousands of tiny punctiform burns of the treated skin. These tiny superficial 'wounds' stimulate a modest inflammation (redness) that can last from a few hours to 2-3 days at most (depending on the intensity of the treatment and the sensitivity of the skin) followed by the activation of the regenerative processes of the epidermis. This reparative/regenerative phase is the one responsible for the subsequent clinical results, which also take several months to stabilise. The treatment therefore stimulates the natural regenerative capacities of the dermis and the production of collagen, which contributes globally to tissue rejuvenation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can vary from 20 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the area to be treated.
In some cases, particularly on the most sensitive areas, we apply a topical anaesthetic, which virtually eliminates any sensation of pain or discomfort during treatment.
It is advisable to avoid exposure to sunlight and/or UV lamps both in the weeks preceding the treatment and in the 8 weeks following it. Medications that increase the skin's sensitivity to light (known as 'photosensitisers') should not be taken. After treatment, an antibiotic ointment should be applied locally for a few days, followed by the use of healing and soothing creams in the following weeks. In addition, the treated areas must be protected with high-protection sunscreens for at least 8 weeks after the session.
In some cases, the treatment is repeated every 30-40 days, thus improving the final result. However, care must be taken to avoid sun exposure during the period between one session and the next.
It is normal for a sunburn-like reddening to appear over the entire area, but this disappears within a few days. The treatment should be avoided during pregnancy and in areas with dermatitis or ongoing infections.