As warmer weather approaches and people start spending more time outside, it’s important to remember that the “healthy tan” we’re looking for is actually damaging our skin. And after spending year after year in the sun, that damage will begin to show – usually on the most prominent part of our bodies: the face. Aside from making you look older, this sun damage puts you at risk for skin cancer.
The good news is that the cosmetic damage from too much sun can be corrected. One tool Jefferson Facial Plastics uses is the SmartXide CO2 Laser. This treatment is especially effective for treating sun damage and can result in smoother, clearer, younger looking skin.
How does the SmartXide CO2 Laser work?
The laser works by using “dot resurfacing” on the face. This means it produces thousands of microscopic dots on the face. It does this by using customized dot patterns, spacing, and duration that are unique to each patient’s skin type and the amount of skin damage.
The reason why the laser is so effective is twofold. First, it gently peels away the very top layer of skin, revealing undamaged skin underneath. Second, the laser heats up the lower layer of skin, which promotes collagen production. Collagen is one of the building blocks of the skin and gives it volume. Collagen also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Is SmartXide CO2 Laser dot resurfacing painful?
There might be some mild discomfort during the treatment. This is usually in the form of a burning sensation. We try to minimize any discomfort by using a topical anesthetic to numb the skin as much as possible.
How long does this treatment take and what’s the recovery like?
Another benefit of dot resurfacing using the SmartXide CO2 Laser is that it’s very fast. It can resurface the face and neck in about 30 minutes. This makes it easy for even the busiest patients to schedule a treatment during the day.
Most patients fully recover in about five days. Until then, the most common side-effects are pinkness and swelling in the treated area. It might feel like a mild sunburn during this time. Patients are advised to stay out of the sun to prevent further damage to the delicate skin.
During the recovery period, the patient will be advised on how to care for the treated area. Much of the post-treatment care involves regular application of a skin moisturizer to prevent the skin from becoming dry. After five days the patient can resume normal daily activities.
What can the SmartXide CO2 Laser do for you?
Aside from treating sun damage, the SmartXide CO2 Laser also treats conditions like wrinkles, surgical scars, uneven pigmentation, stretch marks and much, much more.
If you’re interested in finding out more, call Jefferson Facial Plastics today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced medical team will work with you to decide the best course of treatment based on your skin condition and treatment goals. You’ll then see why Jefferson Facial Plastics is the premier medical spa in the greater Philadelphia area.
