At ZONA, we use the Rohrer Phoenix CO2 Laser to treat uneven pigmentation, reduce fine lines and coarse wrinkles, help skin texture, and improve acne scarring. The Phoenix CO2 laser scanner divides the CO2 laser beam into tiny shafts of light. These shafts of light penetrate through the epidermis and introduce heat into the sub-dermal layers of the skin. This heat causes skin cells to reproduce more rapidly to heal the injury, thus stimulating collagen. Resurfacing treatments do come with some downtime but because of how aggressive they are, CO2 can yield more dramatic results. Our Laser Technicians are skilled on all areas of the body and experienced with concerns such as;
CO2 laser appointments are usually about 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Topical numbing cream is applied to help with any discomfort. You can expect your skin to be red, textured, and even a little swollen. After the treatment expect something similar to a sunburn feeling with a red/brownish tint to the skin as the day goes on. These symptoms are a normal part of the healing process and should improve within a few days.
Downtime is what we call when your skin is still compromised and red/pink. During this time we recommend avoiding makeup, sun exposure, exercise and any excessive heat. Redness can last up to 7-10 days followed by some sloughing and peeling. Total healing time is usually 10-14 days, but you should be prepared for the full 14 days. We will send you home with a gentle cleanser and post procedure balm to protect your skin through its healing process.
Before Your Appointment:
· It is imperative that you avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior to your appointment. You will be rescheduled if you come to your appointment with an active sunburn or tan.
· Avoid any irritants to your skin, such as any products containing Tretinion, Retin-A, Benzoyl Peroxide, Gycolic/SalicylicAcids, or Astringents for one week before your treatment.
· Avoid use of Antibiotics such as Tetracycline or Minocycline for 2 weeks prior to your treatment.
· Patients must be off Accutane for at least 6 months prior to the treatment.
· Do not wax or use depilatory creams on treatment area for one week prior to your treatment to avoid irritation.
· Wear SPF of 30 or higher every day
· If you have a history of cold sores, notify your technician as soon as possible. We will write you a prescription for an antiviral to start on the day of your treatment to prevent a flare up.
· It is recommended to pretreat your skin with the Alastin Nectar for two weeks prior to your treatment.
The Day of Your Appointment:
· If possible, please arrive with a clean face free of makeup and/or lotions.
· Please complete all paperwork prior to your appointment so that you may enjoy the entire allotted appointment time.
· Allow for a minimum of 90 minutes for your appointment depending on the areas being treated.
· Pre treatment photos will be taken.
· You will be given protective eye shields to wear during your treatment and topical numbing cream will be applied to help alleviate discomfort.
After Care Instructions:
· You can expect tightness, itching, or flaking after the treatment. The post care kit will help with this.
· We will send you home with the appropriate skincare products for your healing time. This includes a cleanser, post treatment balms, and SPF. Use these products as directed by your technician.
o Cleanse treated areas with the gentle cleanser morning and evening.
o Apply and reapply post treatment balm as needed.
o When you are no longer red, apply the SPF.
· Avoid cleansing the skin for 24 hours post treatment. If you need to cleanse, use only water.
· Vinegar soaks are recommended to help alleviate the discomfort and cool down the tissue. Mix 1 teaspoon of distilled white vinegar in 1 cup of tepid water. Soak the gauze in the solution and apply over treated areas. Vinegar soaks are recommended 4 times per day for 15 minutes.
· Benadryl may be taken for swelling and itching. Use as instructed on manufacturer packaging.
· Redness, swelling, and “oozing” are normal responses to the treatment and should be expected. These side effects can last up to two weeks post treatment depending on the depth of the laser.
· Avoid direct sun exposure and excessive heat, including hot showers or saunas, for 2 weeks post treatment.
· Avoid any activities that could raise your internal temperature for two weeks post treatment. This includes exercise.
· Do NOT scrub or pick at dead skin. The grid like pattern will slough off gradually.
· You may resume your regular skincare routine and apply makeup after two weeks.
