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Why choose eCO2 Laser?

eCO2 is a fractionated CO2 laser system. This ablative laser can deliver significant skin resurfacing outcomes for patients seeking to improve wrinkles, scars, pigmentation and many other skin issues. It is a newer and safer improvement on traditional CO2 laser skin resurfacing. With smart technology that optimises delivery of the laser bursts, patients often experience improved comfort, fewer risks and faster recovery times compared to other laser treatments.

How Does eCO2 Work?

Fractional laser resurfacing appeals to a variety of patients, from those who want more significant results to those who only need to repair light damage. The procedure reduces skin imperfections while simultaneously promoting collagen regeneration for long-term, visible improvements in the skin’s texture, tone and colour.

Fractionated laser technology selectively targets a fraction of the skin in the treatment area, leaving small micro-wounds surrounded by untouched tissue. The body’s natural healing process responds to these wounds by creating new tissue and collagen to restore the skin. 

  • Skin resurfacing and rejuvenation
  • Wrinkles, rhytids and fine lines
  • Scars (including acne scars, surgical scars and burn scars)
  • Skin laxity
  • Pigmented lesions and lentigines
  • Textural irregularities
  • Large pores
  • Transepidermal drug delivery
  • Dyschromia
  • Solar/Actinic elastosis
  • Syringoma

The eCO2 system has several advantages over other treatments in this category.

eCO2 is built with a patented technology called coherent RF excited CO2 tubes. This technology produces deep and char-free (clean) ablation that is associated with little collateral tissue damage. With the ability to control thermal damage, providers can adjust and customise treatments to each individual’s needs. For our patients, this means deeper ablation with less swelling, quicker recovery and more significant results.

eCO2 can deliver up to 2.5mm of ablation depth, compared to other CO2 lasers which tend to be more limited in depth of ablation. This is useful in treating acne scars and deep rhytides. 

The eCO2 system has two modes. Dynamic Mode eliminates the checkerboard look of other CO2 systems by allowing continuous firing while moving, creating an ‘airbrushing’ effect. To treat large areas or eliminate demarcation lines, Dynamic Mode provides faster treatments and a more natural look. Static Mode allows clinicians to use a traditional ‘stamping’ technique, enabling the precise delivery of laser energy without the need for multiple passes some other CO2 lasers require.

The eCO2 features patented Controlled Chaos Technology™ (CCT), an algorithm to pseudo-randomly deliver each laser beam and place maximum distance between sequential beams. This technology maximises heat dissipation between shots. The result is an improved safety profile with a reduction in post-treatment discomfort and faster healing time with an unparalleled fractional resurfacing result.

In the lead-up to your eCO2 treatment, be extremely diligent about sun protection. Apply sunscreen regularly and limit time spent in direct sunlight. Your dermatologist may prescribe a skin lightening cream to use for four weeks prior to the procedure. These steps reduce the risk of developing unwanted pigmentation after the treatment.

Everyone experiences discomfort to varying degrees. Your clinician will determine how to minimise your discomfort during the procedure. Topical anaesthetic is applied and sometimes oral medications are prescribed. A cooling device (Zimmer cooler) can also be used to improve comfort. Administering a nerve block is another option that completely numbs the area being treated. 

New skin will appear within a few days. The eCO2 laser leaves skin feeling smoother, firmer and younger while improving the appearance of photodamage and other unwanted pigment. Your skin improvements will continue over six to nine months as new collagen builds and replaces old collagen. Often only one treatment is required to achieve significant improvements in skin tone, colour and texture. More treatments may be required to achieve specific goals.

The recovery for most patients after eCO2 laser treatment ranges from one to two weeks. 

First phase: Upon completion of the treatment, patients typically feel some discomfort in the treated area. Your skin will be swollen and red and may ooze serous fluid. These conditions last for the first two to three days. 

Second phase: Over days three and four, the redness fades and the skin starts to feel tight and dry. It may begin to peel. At this stage, you can resume wearing makeup.

Third phase: In the final stage of recovery, the peeling finishes. Redness can persist and your skin may feel a little sensitive, but you can resume most activities. Complete recovery is expected within seven to 10 days.

Light, superficial laser treatments require minimal to no downtime. Expect a longer recovery period if the treatment is more aggressive for deeper scars and wrinkles. Your doctor will discuss recovery expectations with you during your consultation. The treatment settings can be tailored to your tolerance of downtime.

Here we have the documentation of the recovery process following high-density laseMD Ultra and low-density CO2 laser.  Before, day 1 post-treatment, day 7 post-treatment and 6 weeks post-treatment.

You will be prepared for the procedure with a thorough skin cleansing and a topical anaesthetic cream. You will also be given eye protection to wear during the treatment. Your clinician will then carefully scan the laser handpiece over the targeted area. You will feel a prickly sensation, often compared to the snap of a rubber band, on your skin. You will also hear the sound of the fume extractor (air suction). Depending on the scope of the procedure, laser skin resurfacing typically takes between 15 minutes and 40 minutes to complete.

After an eCO2 laser treatment, you may experience the following:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Serous discharge
  • Peeling
  • Infection  
  • Pigmentary changes (redness, darkening or lightening) 

If you are prone to cold sores, please notify your clinician. Your dermatologist will prescribe prophylactic antiviral tablets. We will also test you for staph carriage and prescribe an appropriate treatment prior to the resurfacing procedure to reduce the rate of infection.

eCO2’s fractionated technology lowers the risk of pigmentation changes. Pre-treatment preparation of your skin further reduces the chance of these side effects.

Your result will be as good as your long-term aftercare. To maximise the benefits of your CO2 resurfacing treatment, our dermatologist recommends:

  • Sun protection
  • Active skin care
  • Maintenance resurfacing treatments — This depends on individual needs. Your dermatologist will discuss this with you and create a personalised treatment schedule.

Fractional laser treatments have enjoyed popularity with physicians and patients worldwide for well over a decade. The eCO2 laser is designed with advanced operating features to provide you and your provider with minimal risk during the procedure. Lighter eCO2 treatments are performed by our dermal clinician. More advanced eCO2 treatments are performed by our dermatologist.

Good to Know
eCO2 can deliver up to 2.5mm of ablation depth, compared to other CO2 lasers which tend to be more limited in depth of ablation. This is useful in treating acne scars and deep rhytides.