**The latest-generation CO2 laser**
Laser wrinkle treatment: Improving skin appearance
While botulinum toxin acts on muscles to reduce wrinkles and hyaluronic acid restores lost volume by smoothing resulting wrinkles, laser wrinkle treatment targets the superficial layers of the skin to enhance its overall appearance. The CO2 laser has a truly remarkable skin-tightening effect. Today, new possibilities exist for using CO2 lasers.
Indeed, known for decades for its medical and surgical properties, this laser—in certain machines—is equipped with a computerized system that allows treating skin areas via “scanner.” In the past, CO2 laser peels destroyed the entire skin, causing a controlled thermal burn that triggered skin regeneration during the healing phase. Although the effects were surprising and the results remarkable, side effects and complications were numerous.
The fractional CO2 laser solution
With this advancement, it is now possible to treat only 5% to 40% of the skin, ensuring faster recovery and comfort by reducing social or professional downtime.
How fractional CO2 laser works
These lasers (MIXTO©, FRAXEL©) create thousands of “micro-channels” in the skin, reaching the dermis while leaving untreated areas intact, from which the healing process begins. Thanks to this “fractional” treatment, healing is much faster than with traditional resurfacing methods. The effects on the skin are multiple: partial destruction of the epidermis and dermis (superficial 2nd-degree controlled burn) and collateral thermal elevation. Results show skin regeneration through new fibroblasts synthesizing fresh elastin and collagen fibers, as well as contraction of surrounding collagen fibers due to temperature rise in areas adjacent to lasered zones.
The treatment
In each session, 5% to 40% of the surface is treated. On the first day, the skin appears “tanned.” Over the next three days, it peels. Everything returns to normal after 5 or 6 days. Note that these minor inconveniences can be concealed with makeup if necessary. If you prefer no one to know you’ve had resurfacing, plan 3–4 days off (e.g., Friday to Monday).
Frequently asked questions
Which areas can be treated?
The entire face, as well as more delicate zones like the hands, neck, décolletage, abdomen, etc.
What are the indications for fractional resurfacing?
Scars (acne, chickenpox), sun-related pigmentation (sun damage on hands, face, décolletage), enlarged pores, skin regeneration (reducing facial wrinkles), stretch marks.
How is the treatment performed?
Today, anesthetic creams (EMLA©) applied topically an hour before the laser peel make the procedure entirely tolerable. The post-op period—where skin may feel warm—is also shortened.
What does skin look like after fractional resurfacing?
For the first two days, the skin will show varying redness and mild edema (swelling). From day 3 to day 5 or 6, micro-scabs gradually shed, revealing pinkish skin. Edema may persist during this time.
When can I return to work?
In most cases, social or professional life can resume the next day with makeup (to camouflage the “tanned” color from drying micro-scabs).
How should I approach sun exposure?
Caution is key: avoid direct sun for three months post-treatment. Otherwise, SPF 50+ sunscreen is mandatory for outdoor activities (gardening, walks, etc.).
What results can I expect?
Gradual skin quality improvement: radiance and firmness will improve. Wrinkles and pigmented spots will diminish. The effect also benefits acne or chickenpox scars (the latter may require combined techniques for “icepick” scars). Results develop over six months.
Are there contraindications?
Recent intense tanning, photosensitizing medications, and isotretinoin (ROACCUTANE©) use contraindicate treatment. While depigmentation risks are lower than with classic resurfacing, they remain possible. As with all peels, potential complications include infections (bacterial, viral like cold sores), post-op hyperpigmentation (usually reversible within months), and healing issues (per scientific studies).
PHOTOS
While many websites show treatment results, displaying them is now prohibited by the Belgian Medical Association and law. Hence, we do not feature them here. However, personalized information is available during your consultation, where photos will be shared to help you assess outcomes.
Want tailored advice? Schedule a consultation.
