The fractional CO2 laser is one of our most wanted and asked for treatment. It’s famous in the whole world for its regenerating, anti-aging, and skin restructuring properties. It isn’t enjoyable, but when done by an expert, side effects are non-existent.
In 6 Things About Fractional CO2 Laser, You Must Know [Part 1], we clarified the most common aspects of the treatment. In this article, we continue with all you need to know before considering CO2 Laser Therapy.
#1 The CO2 machine type matters
Not all CO2 machines are equal. For example, the Korean CO2 machines have mild effects, safer for sensitive and dark skins. The American CO2 machines are much more aggressive, even at their lowest levels. These machines are not recommended for all skin types – from them benefit the most lighter and not sensitive skins.
The reason why some machines have milder effects and some have more substantial effects is geological and cultural. Korean machines are specially designed for Asian and darker skin types. American appliances are designed for light and white skins.
You must listen to your doctor’s recommendations since they know what machines they use and how strong they would be for your skin type. You might be advised to switch to another treatment or go for a patch test at some clinics before the CO2 Laser treatment. It’s for your safety.
#2 You need a patch test before the treatment
A patch test is mandatory before the treatment. When your doctor tells you it’s necessary, you should feel grateful and happy – this expert cares about you and wants to see how your skin reacts to the beams.
A patch test is crucial for sensitive skin and also dark skin. If your skin is sensitive or dark, you might get side effects that will ruin your entire self-esteem:
- Slow healing;
- Hypopigmentation;
- Hyperpigmentation;
- Burning.
The patch test is done on a small area behind the ear (a non-visible skin area). By doing the patch test, you will understand if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment. Without the patch test, you take a significant risk for your entire face, and if things go wrong, you will regret it for a very long time.
The patch test is insurance for your medical aesthetician and you.
#3 CO2 removes hyperpigmentation only on white or light skins
We hate to say this, but CO2 for hyperpigmentation is beneficial only for white and delicate skins. The reason behind this fact is that dark skins are prone to burning and developing pigmentation. It’s ironic how many clients with dark skins come to us to treat hyperpigmentation with CO2 Laser – the treatment that might cause even more incredible pigmentation.
When it comes to dark skin, CO2 is not the first option for therapy. Treating hyperpigmentation of dark skin requires more conservative methods. One of the best options for treating dark hyperpigmented skin is Cosmelan and Dermamelan. PRP is also an option for hyperpigmentation treatment.
Learn more: 6 Ways To Lighten Your Skin Without Peeling.
Cosmelan and Dermamelan for dark skins and hyperpigmentation
Cosmelan and Dermamelan work in two levels – their formula inhibits the synthesis of melanin and blocks the movement of pigments to the upper layers of the skin. The treatments not only remove hyperpigmentation of any origin but also prevents its further development in the future.
Both treatments require only one session at the clinic. The rest of the therapy is at home with a home care kit. In a few weeks, you can see a massive improvement in the skin complexion.
These treatments do wonders when combined with glutathione injections for skin lightening. Ask your doctor for suitable therapy.
PRP
PRP is an option when resolving pigmentation issues. Platelet-Rich-Plasma is a concentrated plasma from your blood, which is rich in platelets and growth hormones. When inserted into the hyperpigmented dark skin, a massive rejuvenating process occurs. You can read more about PRP here.
For dark skins, CO2 Laser can be added to the therapy but only after a patch test and on low heat levels – so it can aim only at the upper layers of the skin.
We suggest you always listen to your practitioner when considering the CO2 Laser as an unsuitable option for your skin type. Ask for the alternatives and weigh the pros and cons. Go for the safer method because it can cost you too much stress if you get the wrong skincare.
#4 CO2 gives best results when combined with other facial treatments
CO2 Laser is not a single tree in the forest. CO2 Laser should be part of a strategy and a plan for achieving your goal when it comes to achieving goals. Your aesthetician can design this strategy.
CO2 Laser is a step, not the whole journey. Depending on your goals, the CO2 Laser can be combined with other treatments to assure success and long-lasting effects.
Anti-aging
When your goal is to remove fine lines, wrinkles, under-eye bags, puffiness, CO2 can be combined with the following treatments:
Recommended combo sessions: 3 sessions.
Hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and freckles removal
We already mentioned that dark skins should aim for a strategy in which CO2 Laser doesn’t play the leading role.
Alternative treatments for dark skins:
- Cosmelan;
- Dermamelan;
- Mesotherapy;
- PRP;
- Glutathione Injection Therapy;
- Biorevitalization;
- DMK Facial.
Fantastic results you see when some treatments get combined.
For lighter skins, CO2 Laser for hyperpigmentation, scars, and freckles can be combined with:
- PRP;
- Mesotherapy;
- Biorevitalization;
- HydraFacial;
- DMK Facial.
Recommended combo sessions: 6 sessions.
Overall glow and skin refreshing
With this goal, we recommend doing the CO2 Laser for a few sessions and in between the sessions:
- HydraFacial;
- Glow Getter Facial;
- Aqua Gold;
- Mesotherapy;
- PRP.
Recommended combo sessions: 3 sessions.
Think Fractional CO2 Laser is just for you?
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