CO₂ Laser Skin Resurfacing in Ashburn, VA

You have multiple factors to think about when selecting which laser peel procedure is best for your needs. Laser skin resurfacing is ideal for people who are unsatisfied with their skin’s appearance. If you notice skin damaged by the sun, age spots, acne scars, wrinkles and fine lines, pigmentation, or redness troubles, a laser peel procedure may be helpful to improve these complexion imperfections. Also, a laser peel can be beneficial for those who have rough texture, actinic keratosis, scaly patches, or other skin surface problems. A laser peel is not suggested for anyone who has very dark skin tones or active acne outbreaks. Additionally, it is important to know that there is a recovery period needed after laser treatments. Certain patients, based on their skin condition, may require as much as 2 – 3 weeks for their skin to normalize.

Before you are scheduled for a more intense or deep CO₂ laser peel treatment, you will be told to discontinue using retionols or retinoin skin care productions for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser peel. It is also recommended not to use self tanners or spray tanning or tanning beds and to not have excess sun exposure.  If you have a history of cold sores, then you will be directed to take an anti-viral prescription to avoid an outbreak. A topical local anesthesia will be prescribed and this will be applied at home prior to departing for the office.  Throughout the procedure, you can relax in our special treatment chair while the laser handpiece passes over your skin, directly targeting the needed surfaces for rejuvenation. You may feel the heat of the laser followed with cold air from the cooling device. The laser energy is designed to remove damaged and dead skin cells while also prompting new collagen production. This skin removal will improve textrure of skin too.

Following laser skin resurfacing, the treated skin will feel like a sunburn for a day and then look pink, and there may be some swelling. In some cases depending on the CO₂ laser settings the face can be red. These symptoms subside in a few days, and the skin peeling process will occur over a 3 – 5-day period. When the CO₂ laser settings are higher, the treatment healing time and symptoms are intensified. The recovery period for a more intense laser treatment may last several weeks. Every patient needs to minimize their UV exposure following their laser peel and use sun protection throughout the day. After the healing is finished, the treated skin should feel smoother while also appearing rejuvenated, younger, and clearer.

How much does CO₂ laser skin resurfacing cost?

Your CO₂ laser resurfacing cost will depend on the type of treatment you receive. During your initial consultation, Dr. Brown, or his nurses or aestheticain will ask about your skin issues and desired results before reviewing the types of laser resurfacing available. After this, he will help you decide on your resurfacing setting and talk to you about costs. The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery regularly offers skin treatment specials and packages so ask about current specials in your appointment.

What is the best type of skin resurfacing for me?

Dr. Brown can help you choose which resurfacing option will best meet your concerns and goals in your initial consultation. The treatment that is best for you will depend on the condition of your skin, any skin issues, and the skin depth you want your treatment to reach. The length of recovery time might also be an important consideration when you create a treatment plan. If you are unsure, it is better to select a milder treatment, then assess your outcomes and decide if you want something stronger for your second appointment.

How can I help my skin recover after a CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment?

Dr. Brown or someone on his staff will give you tips on ways to speed skin healing following your treatment. The top rule is to not peel or pick flaking skin. Doing this can create long-term damage, like scars. You need to forgo all hair removal methods on the treated skin, which includes waxing, shaving, or depilatory creams. We can also suggest creams to help soothe treated areas.

Should I receive CO₂ laser skin resurfacing, or Morpheus8 or both?

Once he has listened to your problems and goals, Dr. Brown will help you choose whether CO₂ laser skin resurfacing or Morpheus8 would be a better solution. The CO₂ laser resurfaces the skin primarily but can also tighten the skin as well. The Morpheus8 primarily tightens the skin and deeper lying structures. For maximum improvement, both can be done at the same time. This will result in the best skin texture and tightening. Dr. Michael Brown will review each choice and make a suggestion for your treatment plan.

How often should I get CO₂ laser resurfacing treatments?

Based on the laser resurfacing options you and Dr. Brown choose for your procedure, you might need to wait several weeks or even a few months between treatments. With CO₂ laser treatments most conditions require anywhere from 1-3 treatments spaced about  4 weeks apart to treat effectively. You should tell Dr. Brown about how frequently you want to return for appointments so he can consider this when choosing a treatment plan in your initial consultation.