RF/CO2 Resurfacing

Both of these types of laser technologies are used for collagen stimulation and skin rejuvenation. While both aim to promote collagen production, they differ in their mechanisms of action, depth of penetration, and associated downtime. Here’s a comparison of ablative and non-ablative lasers for collagen stimulation:

Ablative Lasers:

1. Types of Ablation Devices: In our office, we have 2 main types of ablative technology.  Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing and Fractional Plasma resurfacing – the similarities and differences will be discussed further down this web page, after the explanation of Ablative vs Non ablative.
2. Mechanism of Action:
   • Removal of Tissue: Ablative lasers work by removing layers of skin tissue. They cause controlled damage to the outer layers, stimulating the body’s natural healing response.
3. Depth of Penetration:
   • Deeper Penetration: Ablative lasers penetrate more deeply into the skin, reaching the epidermis and often extending into the dermis.
4. Targets:
   • Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Scars: Ablative lasers are effective for treating moderate to severe signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and certain types of scars.  They can also be effective on stubborn pigmentation that fails to respond to milder treatments
5. Downtime:
   • Extended Downtime: Ablative laser treatments are associated with a more extended downtime. Patients COMMONLY experience redness, swelling, and peeling for several days to weeks, depending on the intensity of the treatment.  Make up generally can not be worn until approximately 6-7 days after the treatment
6. Painful Procedure:
   • Both of these fractional resurfacing devices (CO2 and fractional RF ablative plasma) are painful treatments.  We generally have our patients prepare by using some or all of the following:
   • 1 hr pre treatment – 2 extra strength Tylenol and apply freezing cream to the entire zone to be treated.  Then cover all the cream with saran wrap to improve the penetration of the medicated cream and the freezing effect
   • At treatment, we prescribe a anesthetic puffer to be used to help with the acute pain.  The only people who can’t use this puffer are those with a known allergy to general anaesthetics, severe kidney/liver disease and/or a condition called malignant hyperthermia.
   • After treatment, a fan (and the air conditioning in your car on the way home) for 2-4 hrs helps to significantly reduce the sunburn feeling.
   • Usually after 2-4 hrs, the pain passes and the healing process continues.
   • For those with a history of cold sores or frequent skin infections we use antivirals and antibacterials, respectively over the course of the first 5-7 days.
7. Collagen Stimulation:
   • Stimulates Collagen Production: By causing controlled damage, ablative lasers trigger a significant increase in collagen production during the healing process.

Considerations:

• Treatment Goals:
  • Ablative lasers are often chosen for more significant improvements in wrinkles, scars, and skin tightening.
  • Non-ablative lasers are preferred for those seeking milder improvements with less downtime (see Clearlift).
• Skin Type:
  • Non-ablative lasers may be suitable for a broader range of skin types, including individuals with darker skin tones, as they pose a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Number of Sessions:
  • Ablative lasers may achieve results in 1-3 sessions, while non-ablative lasers (see Clearlift) often require 5-10 sessions for optimal results.