CO2 Treatment Explained – Complete step by step guide to the most advanced resurfacing procedure by Dr Nina Sheffield.

CO2 Treatment Explained – Complete step by step guide to the most advanced resurfacing procedure by Dr Nina Sheffield.

“If you are not keen on needles but are thinking of improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, this is the treatment to go for.” – explains Dr Nina.

This powerful and advanced laser can do much more! It reveals a whole new fresh layer of the skin. And it can improve pigmentation, signs of ageing, sun damage, acne scars, enlarged pores, dullness, age spots, stretch marks and skin laxity. At rtwskin, we use DEKA Smartxide Dot® Fractional CO2 Laser, and by managing its strength, we can customise the treatment to an individual needs. Treatment that includes deep resurfacing will require a longer recovery and accordingly the more superficial the shorter the healing time.

“I achieve the best results with more in-depth treatments, however, some of my patients, prefer to go for a course of superficial procedures to reduce downtime. During a complimentary consultation, I always explain the best options and customise a treatment plan for each individual patient.” – says Dr Nina.

1 .Consultation

Your journey starts with a consultation where Dr Nina will discuss all your concerns and assess your complexion. At rtwskin, we always focus on real results that can be achieved, and we highlight the number of treatments that are needed to achieve a desirable outcome. Consultations are necessary, as your practitioner will perform a test patch for the laser procedure this is required at least 24h prior to the treatment.

2.Anaesthetic

An hour to your CO2 procedure the practitioner will apply a local anaesthetic cream to your skin. It takes 30 – 45 mins for the cream to numb the area. After that time, your treatment will begin.

3.Treatment

The CO2 Resurfacing process takes about an hour for a full face procedure and feels like a “pins and needles” sensation. Dr Nina will be accompanied by an assistant who will direct a strong stream of cold air (Zimmer cooler) to the treated area to ease any discomfort. “I always ensure that the patient is comfortable through the whole procedure. Areas such eyes or mouth are more sensitive, and the strength of the laser can always be amended.

” The Fractional CO2 Laser beams create microscopic channels within the skin by removing its tiny fractions in a scanning pattern. Dr Nina clarifies: ” It sounds scary, but these fractions are actually finer than a human hair.”

That’s when the repairing process begins. Channels created by the laser beam are being replaced with the new fresh skin, and process of the new formation begins. The whole procedure generates an entirely new layer of epidermal tissue – the top layer of the skin.

” It also has a much-desired, tightening effect on the dermal tissue which is a deeper level of our skin. ” Dr Nina adds.

4.Post Procedure

After your procedure, Dr Nina will apply Fucidin, and you will be given this Antibiotic ointment for at-home use. Dr Nina explains that it is crucial to avoid sun exposure and following our aftercare guide to support the skins healing process. Your skin will become susceptible, and you might feel a sensation similar to severe sunburn. As the healing process progresses, over the following weeks, the skin will gradually become smoother, and redness will fade away.

5.Results

Generally, results of CO2 Laser Resurfacing are long-term, and with a customised maintenance program, these can last for years. Some improvements begin to be visible as soon as 2-3 weeks after. You will experience skin tightening immediately after the treatment, but the improvements will continue to develop over the coming months. Benefits are what we all love to hear about, so here is some… Dr Nina reminds that all results depend on the individual skin condition and the number of treatments suggested by the practitioner during a consultation. Your skin will become tighter and plumper. Fine lines and wrinkles will be noticeably softened. As the new collagen production continues for up to one year following treatment, you will experience an improvement in skin texture and laxity. Pigmentation and roughness will start to fade away, leaving a youthful, dewy glow. Conditions such as acne scarring, enlarged pores, deep scars, significant skin discolourations or stretch marks might require additional sessions.

Book a no-obligation consultation to discuss Co2 Laser Treatment and other procedures with Dr Nina Sheffield

Call 01892 22 22 22

Meet the expert

Dr Nina Sheffield qualified as a GP before specialising in Otolaryngology (ENT). For the last 12 years, she has specialised in medical lasers and cosmetic injections.

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