People suffering from acne scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, fine lines, and age-related pigmentation can put the blame on a single culprit – a significantly low level of collagen in the skin. Collagen is the substance that binds the body together. As the most abundant protein in the body, it acts as a scaffold that provides structure and strength. It also keeps the skin looking firm and supple. Even though it is naturally occurring in the skin, collagen production tends to decline as we grow older. Ultimately, the continuous lack of collagen means that the skin’s ability to repair itself also diminishes.
A healthy and balanced diet helps the body produce collagen but then again, it is limited to a certain level. The good news is that we have the technology to accelerate the skin’s collagen renewal ability to successfully address different skin problems.
What is Fractional resurfacing?
Fractional resurfacing or carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that uses ultra-pulse beams to remove the outer layers of damaged skin and activate the regeneration of skin underneath. The energy from the laser beams warms the dermis layer and boosts the body’s natural repair process to replace lost collagen in the skin, without inflicting any damage to the surface of the skin. Known for having the longest wavelength, CO2 laser is best suited to rejuvenate the skin from deep wrinkles, acne and surgical scars, and fine lines.
Fractional CO2 laser in Singapore allows people with stubborn skin conditions such as wrinkles and severe acne scars to get a chance to restore their skin to its former unblemished glory. This article was written with the help of Dr Edwin Lim, a premium medical aesthetic doctor based in Singapore’s Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic, will help you know what to expect with fractional CO2 laser procedure.
Does fractional CO2 laser work for acne scars?
Yes, a CO2 laser is often recommended to treat depressed acne scars, which cause depressions or pits in the skin. Examples of depressed acne scars include rolling scars, boxcar, and ice pick.
- Rolling scars. These are shallow indentions with sloping and rounded edges, hence the term ‘rolling scars’. They are rough in texture and have a rippling or wavy appearance and are commonly caused by damage under the skin.
- Boxcar scars. These look like chicken pox scars at first glance, with deep, defined edges.
- Icepick scars. These are narrow and deep scars similar to large, empty pores. This type is the hardest to cover up.
Before the treatment
- The first thing to do is to consult Dr Edwin Lim for an assessment of your condition. He or she will provide a recommendation of the most suitable treatment and will give you an overview of the expected results once the procedure is done.
- The clinic staff will take your photo to track the progress of the treatment.
- Before the procedure starts, the area to be treated will be washed and cleaned. This will be followed by the application of a numbing cream to alleviate any discomfort that you may feel during the treatment.
During the treatment
- Prickling sensations and slight discomfort may be felt from the laser beams. You might even experience pain in sensitive areas like the area around the eyes and mouth and hairline so make sure that your doctor knows about it so that he or she can make the adjustments as needed. Some people also reported smelling some sort of burning but there is no reason to worry or panic because this normally happens.
- Fractional CO2 laser in Singapore typically lasts for 20 to 30 minutes depending on the severity of the condition and the size of the treatment area.
After the treatment
- Immediately after the procedure and within the next 24 hours. The treated area will appear sunburnt for two to three days and you may experience itching or stinging. This is generally tolerable and for some people who have relatively high discomfort/pain tolerance, they are able to go home or go back to work without any fuss.
- A few after the treatment. Redness will occur in the first two days and the scabs formed will be gone after five to seven days. Peeling and shedding will continue during the next few weeks. Consult your doctor if you will be allowed to use cosmetics. The days needed to fully recover depend on the depth of the skin the laser beam has penetrated: shallow treatments heal faster while deeper ones need more healing and downtime.
If you visit Dr Edwin Lim’s clinic for more information, we will be more than glad to show you photographic samples of patients before, during, and after treatment.
Results Revealed
The results of fractional CO2 laser in Singapore are immediate after each session. There will be noticeable improvement on skin conditions such as wrinkles, acne scars, and age-related hyperpigmentation. For best results, it is highly recommended to undergo four to five sessions spaced at four to six weeks interval.
Best Aftercare Tips and Treatments
For non-surgical procedures like fractional CO2 laser, you do not require prolonged recovery time or any of the special arrangements associated with surgery. You just need to follow the specific aftercare instructions given to you by your doctor.
- Pain relievers. Depending on the recommendation of the doctor, you can use an ice pack or take a pain reliever to reduce the pain. If the pain becomes unbearable, speak to your doctor immediately.
- Sunscreen. The most common side effect of non-surgical skin procedures is irritation caused by sun damage. To prevent this, always apply a broad-spectrum (at least SPF 30) sunscreen before heading out. If possible, refrain from being exposed to direct sunlight to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Hydrate and moisturize. To promote faster healing time, make sure to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. Use a good moisturizer and drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin while it repairs itself.
Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic
#02-12/13 Changi City Point,
5 Changi Business Park Central 1,
Singapore 486038
+65 6904 2218