The CO2 laser allows the vaporization removal of moles, warts and skin nodules without leaving a visible scar. Thus, it can treat a large number of highly disabling aesthetic requests in safe conditions.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are gas-powered devices, emitted in infrared, with the principle of destroying dermatological lesions.
CO2 lasers have been used for more than 27 years in surgical procedures, aesthetic and dermatological care: medium and fine wrinkles, scars of various origins, pigment disorders and dilated pores.
In the 3 to 4 weeks before the laser treatment, the doctor will restrict the skin’s melanin production to limit the risk of post-inflammatory pigment disorders occurring. This precaution is important on southern and Asian skin.
During this entire preparation period, the patient will avoid any exposure to the sun, UV and will refrain from any use of self-tanner.
In the week prior to the laser procedure, the patient will use a moisturizer regularly to prepare the skin.
Similarly, a prescription for an anti-herpes medication will be started in the 2 to 4 days prior to the CO2 procedure to limit the risk of a herpes outbreak.
The passage of the laser reacts by vaporizing the superficial layers of the skin. A phenomenon of remodeling and collagen synthesis is then initiated and continues in the months following the laser session.
The depth of ablation of the superficial layers depends on the parameters of the machine. The settings of modern devices allow to define the desired effects varying between a pure ablation and a preferential thermal effect.
