What is Laser Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a skin rejuvenation treatment that removes the damaged outer layer of the skin to promote new, healthy skin growth. This fully ablative method, as opposed to fractional CO2 lasers, treats the entire skin surface, offering deeper and more dramatic improvements. It is particularly effective for sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and scars, making it one of the most powerful cosmetic procedures available for comprehensive skin renewal.
Why Choose Ultrapulse Alpha CO2 Laser for Skin Resurfacing?
The Ultrapulse Alpha CO2 Laser utilizes the MaxFX protocol, an advanced technique involving multiple passes of the laser to ensure full ablation of the skin. This fully ablative approach offers exceptional outcomes for skin rejuvenation, especially in areas of significant skin laxity or scarring.
Instant Retraction and Long-Term Benefits
One of the standout features of the Ultrapulse Alpha is its ability to provide instant skin retraction, delivering immediate tightening of sagging skin. This instant effect is visible right after treatment, as the laser promotes an immediate contraction of the skin. Over time, the treatment continues to improve as it stimulates collagen production, leading to firmer, smoother skin in the weeks and months following the procedure.
Key Benefits of Laser Resurfacing with Ultrapulse Alpha:
- Immediate Tightening of Sagging Skin: Thanks to the laser’s ability to retract skin laxity instantly, you can see an immediate improvement in skin tightness right after the procedure
- Reduction of Deep Wrinkles: The fully ablative CO2 laser is unmatched in addressing deep, stubborn wrinkles that accumulate over time
- Smoothing Fine Lines and Uneven Texture: Fine lines are softened, and overall skin texture becomes smoother and more refined
- Scarring Treatment: Whether from acne or surgery, scars are significantly diminished with Ultrapulse Alpha’s precise ablation process
- Comprehensive Skin Rejuvenation: The MaxFX protocol ensures thorough skin resurfacing, providing long-lasting rejuvenation with cumulative benefits in the months post-treatment
Fully Ablative CO2 Laser vs. Fractional CO2 Laser
The fully ablative CO2 laser differs from fractional CO2 lasers by treating the entire surface of the skin rather than just a portion. This makes it the preferred option for patients with severe wrinkles, skin laxity, or deep scarring, as it offers more dramatic results. While fractional lasers are less invasive with shorter recovery times, fully ablative treatments like laser resurfacing with the Ultrapulse Alpha provide more immediate and noticeable results.
What to Expect from the Treatment
The Ultrapulse Alpha uses precise, layer-by-layer laser energy to remove damaged skin, tighten underlying tissues, and stimulate the growth of new collagen. During the procedure, the skin undergoes multiple laser passes to ensure full resurfacing, leaving the treated area rejuvenated and tightened. The instant skin retraction is one of the immediate benefits that patients notice, with further improvements developing as the skin heals and regenerates.
Post-Treatment and Results
After laser resurfacing with the Ultrapulse Alpha, patients may experience some redness and swelling as part of the healing process. Over the next few weeks, the skin will peel and regenerate, revealing firmer, more youthful skin underneath. Full results become visible within 3 to 6 months as collagen production continues, with the immediate tightening effect visible right after the procedure.
Who is the ideal candidate for fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing?
The ideal candidate for fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing, particularly with the Ultrapulse Alpha CO2 Laser, typically exhibits the following characteristics:
Moderate to Severe Skin Aging
- Deep wrinkles and fine lines: Ideal for those with significant lines around the mouth, forehead, and eyes
- Sagging skin: Particularly effective for those with skin laxity, as the treatment provides instant skin tightening along with long-term collagen stimulation
Scarring
- Acne scars: Fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most effective treatments for deep acne scars, as it fully ablates the damaged skin and promotes healing
- Surgical or trauma scars: Patients with raised or uneven scars from surgeries or injuries can benefit from the laser’s powerful resurfacing capabilities
Sun Damage
- Photodamage and sun spots: Ideal candidates often have noticeable sun damage, including pigmentation irregularities, rough texture, and deep creases that can be treated with a fully ablative laser
Uneven Skin Tone and Texture
- Those with rough, uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, or discoloration can benefit from the comprehensive resurfacing offered by fully ablative CO2 lasers
Patients Seeking Dramatic Results
- Candidates who are looking for noticeable, long-term improvement in their skin’s appearance and are willing to undergo extended recovery periods are ideal for this treatment. Fully ablative lasers offer more dramatic and permanent results than other resurfacing options
Patients with Fair to Medium Skin Tones
- Fully ablative CO2 lasers are particularly effective and safer on lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types I-III). Darker skin tones may be more prone to hyperpigmentation or other side effects, so these patients may require more careful evaluation
Who May Not Be Ideal for Fully Ablative CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
While fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is highly effective, certain individuals may not be ideal candidates:
- Patients with very dark skin tones: Those with darker skin tones may face a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Individuals prone to keloid scarring: Those with a history of keloids or hypertrophic scarring should avoid fully ablative treatments, as they can increase the risk of abnormal scar formation
- People with active skin infections or severe inflammatory conditions: Conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema in the treatment area need to be controlled before undergoing laser resurfacing
- Patients able to tolerate extended downtime: Fully ablative CO2 resurfacing requires a longer recovery period (up to 2 weeks of redness, swelling, and peeling), which may not suit everyone
What is the downtime for laser resurfacing ?
The downtime following a fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is significant due to the depth and intensity of the treatment. Here’s what to expect:
Immediate Post-Treatment (Days 1-7):
- Redness and Swelling: The skin will be extremely red, swollen, and may feel tight. This is the body’s natural inflammatory response to the deep resurfacing
- Oozing and Crusting: In the first few days, the skin may ooze clear fluid and form scabs or crusts as it begins to heal
- Peeling: Over the course of the first 5-7 days, the outer layer of skin will start to peel off, revealing new skin underneath
Week 2:
- Redness and Pinkness: After the initial peeling, the skin will remain pink or red, a sign that the deeper layers are still healing
- Sensitivity: The skin will be highly sensitive to the sun and other external factors, requiring strict sun protection to avoid pigmentation issues
- Dryness and Tightness: The skin may feel dry, tight, or itchy as it continues to heal
Weeks 3-4:
- Gradual Improvement: The redness starts to fade into a pinkish tone, and most patients can use makeup to cover residual redness at this point
- Ongoing Healing: Although the surface of the skin may look more normal, deeper healing and collagen production will continue over the next several months
Full Recovery Timeline:
- 4-6 weeks: By this point, most of the redness will have subsided, but for some, mild redness may persist for several months
- 3-6 months: The final results begin to show as collagen production continues, revealing firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin
Managing Downtime:
- Strict aftercare is crucial. Patients must avoid sun exposure, follow moisturization routines, and apply any prescribed ointments to speed up healing and prevent infection
- Social downtime: Due to the visible redness, swelling, and peeling, patients may want to plan for 1-2 weeks off from social engagements or work, depending on their comfort level
Other types of lasers for resurfacing
In addition to the CO2 Laser, there are other types of lasers commonly used for skin resurfacing, each with unique properties suited to different skin concerns and patient needs. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:
Erbium YAG Laser (Er:YAG)
- How it works: The Erbium YAG laser emits light that is highly absorbed by water in the skin, making it effective for ablative treatments. It vaporizes the surface layer of the skin, much like a CO2 laser, but with less thermal damage
- Best for: Treating fine lines, sun damage, and superficial wrinkles. It’s a great option for individuals with mild to moderate aging signs who prefer a shorter recovery time than CO2 lasers
- Advantages: Produces less heat than CO2 lasers, leading to faster recovery and less risk of pigmentation issues. It’s ideal for patients with lighter skin tones and those looking for a milder treatment
- Drawbacks: While recovery is quicker, results are generally less dramatic than those achieved with CO2 lasers
Fractional CO2 Laser
- How it works: Unlike fully ablative lasers, fractional CO2 lasers treat only a fraction of the skin’s surface by creating tiny micro-injuries. This leaves healthy skin between the treated areas, promoting faster healing while still stimulating collagen production
- Best for: Patients looking to treat moderate wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars with minimal downtime
- Advantages: Faster healing time and lower risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation compared to fully ablative CO2 lasers. It’s great for individuals with mild to moderate skin aging who want less recovery time
- Drawbacks: Less dramatic results than fully ablative CO2 lasers, particularly for deeper wrinkles or severe skin laxity
What is a fully ablative laser?
A fully ablative laser, like the CO2 Ultrapulse Alpha, removes the entire outer layer of the skin to treat deeper wrinkles, sagging skin, scars, and signs of aging. It delivers multiple passes for full resurfacing, promoting collagen production and dramatic skin renewal.
How long does it take to recover from a fully ablative laser?
Recovery can take between 1-2 weeks for the initial healing phase, with redness and peeling. Full recovery and skin normalization may take up to 3-6 months for deeper collagen remodeling.
Is a fully ablative laser safe?
Yes, fully ablative lasers are safe when performed by experienced dermatologists. However, there are risks such as infection, hyperpigmentation, or scarring, which can be minimized with proper aftercare and expert handling.
What is the most powerful ablative laser?
The Ultrapulse Alpha CO2 laser by Lumenis is one of the most powerful ablative lasers, offering superior results for deep skin resurfacing and significant skin tightening with its MaxFX protocol.
How painful is ablative laser?
Ablative laser resurfacing can be painful, but topical anesthetics and sometimes sedation are used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After the treatment, patients may experience a sunburn-like sensation.
What is the best age for laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is typically most effective for patients aged 35-65 who are experiencing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and skin laxity, but can be beneficial for younger individuals with specific skin concerns like scars.
What are the side effects of ablative laser?
Common side effects include redness, swelling, peeling, and scabbing. There is also a risk of hyperpigmentation, infection, or in rare cases, scarring if not properly managed.
How many sessions of ablative laser resurfacing are needed?
Typically, one session of fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is sufficient to achieve significant improvements. However, touch-ups may be recommended for optimal long-term results.
Who is not a good candidate for laser resurfacing?
Those with darker skin tones (risk of hyperpigmentation), active infections, keloid scarring, or certain medical conditions may not be ideal candidates. It’s important to have a consultation to determine suitability.
What does your face look like after laser resurfacing?
After laser resurfacing, your skin will be red, swollen, and may have peeling and scabs. The initial healing takes 1-2 weeks, with ongoing redness that gradually fades over a few months.
What is the downside of CO2 laser resurfacing?
The main downsides include a longer recovery period, possible side effects like pigmentation changes or scarring, and social downtime due to the visible healing process.
How much younger does a CO2 laser make you look?
A CO2 laser can make you look up to 5-10 years younger by improving wrinkles, skin laxity, and texture. Results vary depending on individual factors and the extent of skin damage.
How much does laser resurfacing ablative cost?
The cost of ablative laser resurfacing varies, but it typically ranges from €3,000 to €5,000 per session, depending on the area treated, the laser type and the center.
Is ablative laser more effective?
Yes, fully ablative lasers are generally more effective than fractional lasers for treating deep wrinkles, scars, and severe skin damage, offering more dramatic results.
What are the cons of laser ablation?
The cons include long recovery time, potential risks like hyperpigmentation or scarring, and the need for strict aftercare. It is also a more invasive procedure than fractional laser resurfacing.
How long does it take collagen to rebuild after resurfacing?
Collagen rebuilding begins soon after the procedure but typically takes around 3-6 months for the full effects to become visible, with continued improvement over time.
Is laser resurfacing worth it?
Yes, for individuals seeking significant skin rejuvenation or scar treatment, laser resurfacing can offer long-lasting and transformative results, making it worth the investment and recovery time.
What are the results of fully ablative laser?
Fully ablative laser results in smoother, tighter, and more youthful skin, with reductions in wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, and scarring. The results are often long-lasting and dramatic.
How long does your face peel after laser resurfacing?
Peeling usually begins around 3-5 days post-treatment and can last up to 7-10 days as the outer layers of skin shed and new skin emerges.
How long does it take to recover from fully ablative CO2 laser?
Initial recovery takes 7-14 days for peeling and swelling to subside, but full healing with residual redness can last up to 3-6 months.
What are the risks of laser ablation?
Risks include infection, scarring, hyperpigmentation, or hypopigmentation, especially in patients with darker skin. Proper aftercare and selecting an experienced dermatologist can minimize these risks.
Which laser resurfacing lasts the longest?
Fully ablative CO2 lasers typically offer the longest-lasting results due to their depth of treatment and significant collagen production.
How often can you get ablative laser?
Ablative laser treatments are typically spaced 5-10 years apart due to their intensity and long-lasting effects. Touch-ups may be done as needed.
Who is not a good candidate for CO2 laser?
Patients with very dark skin tones, those prone to keloid scars, or individuals with active skin infections may not be suitable candidates for CO2 laser.
What will my face look like after a CO2 laser?
After a CO2 laser, your face will initially look red, swollen, and scabbed. This is followed by peeling and gradual redness reduction over several weeks.
How long does ablative laser last?
The effects of ablative laser resurfacing can last for 10+ years, particularly with good skincare and sun protection.
How effective is ablative laser?
Ablative lasers are highly effective for treating deep wrinkles, scars, and sagging skin, often producing more dramatic results than fractional lasers or non-ablative treatments.
What is the best skin tightening device in 2024?
The Ultrapulse Alpha CO2 Laser is considered one of the top devices for skin tightening in 2024, offering instant skin retraction and long-term collagen renewal.