In the field of regenerative aesthetic medicine, the search for visibly younger, firmer and more even skin is a constant.
At Image Regenerative Clinic in Milan, we combine clinical excellence with the most advanced technologies to offer solutions that do not simply correct but deeply regenerate.
Among these, skin resurfacing techniques such as photorejuvenation with fractional ablative CO2 laser stand out as some of the most effective and well-established treatments to counteract the signs of aging, scars and skin imperfections, giving the face a renewed and radiant appearance.
What is Photorejuvenation with Fractional Ablative CO2 Laser
Photorejuvenation with fractional ablative CO2 laser is a high-level aesthetic dermatology procedure considered the gold standard for the intensive treatment of deep wrinkles, scars including acne scars, sunspots and skin laxity.
But what do these terms actually mean
Ablative indicates that the laser works by vaporizing a very thin superficial layer of the epidermis. This action removes damaged and aged cells, stimulating a deep skin renewal process.
Fractional is where the real innovation lies. Unlike older ablative lasers that treated the entire skin surface with a long and complex recovery, fractional technology creates thousands of micro-columns of vaporization alternating with healthy and intact skin tissue. This fragmentation of the laser beam allows much faster and safer healing, since the surrounding healthy skin accelerates regeneration.
This treatment offers a powerful and targeted solution, ideal for those who desire a significant and lasting result, restructuring the very architecture of the skin.
How the Fractional Ablative CO2 Laser Works
The principle behind the CO2 laser lies in the interaction between light energy and the water contained in the skin cells. The laser beam, with a specific wavelength, is absorbed by the water present in the epidermis and dermis, causing a controlled and instant vaporization of the targeted cells.
This process triggers a dual biological reaction which represents the heart of skin regeneration.
Superficial Action
The removal of the outermost layer of the skin eliminates spots, keratoses and imperfections, promoting the formation of a smoother, healthier and more even-toned new epidermis.
Deep Action
The heat generated by the micro-columns of vaporization penetrates the dermis, stimulating the activity of fibroblasts. These cells are the body’s natural factories responsible for producing new collagen and elastin. The neocollagenesis induced by the treatment progressively increases the density, firmness and elasticity of the skin in the following months, creating a natural and lasting lifting effect.
In summary, the fractional CO2 laser does not only smooth the surface but activates a profound process of self-repair and rejuvenation that works from the inside out.
Benefits of Photorejuvenation with CO2 Laser
Choosing a photorejuvenation program with CO2 laser means opting for a deep and multifactorial skin transformation. Guided by the experience of our medical team, this treatment offers a series of visible and concrete benefits that make it one of the most appreciated and requested anti-aging procedures.
The main benefits include
Benefit | Description |
|---|
Dramatic Reduction of Wrinkles | Exceptionally effective on deep wrinkles such as perioral “barcode”, periocular “crow’s feet” and forehead lines. |
Improvement of Scars | Produces remarkable results on acne, surgical or post-traumatic scars by smoothing the skin and making it more even. |
Correction of Pigmentation | Effectively removes sunspots, age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation, evening out the skin tone. |
Natural Lifting Effect | The powerful collagen stimulation results in a visible tightening effect, redefining facial contours and combating laxity. |
Improved Skin Texture | Enlarged pores are minimized and the skin appears smoother, finer and more compact. |
The precision of the fractional CO2 laser makes it particularly suitable for treating delicate areas where signs of aging are most visible.
Rejuvenation of the eye contour, for example, greatly benefits from this technology, which allows the skin of the lower eyelids to be firmed and fine wrinkles to be reduced, restoring freshness and openness to the gaze.
Similarly, the perioral area, often marked by vertical wrinkles, can be treated very effectively for a younger and more defined smile.
Procedure and What to Expect During Treatment
Facing a laser treatment requires awareness and trust. At Image Regenerative Clinic, every journey begins with a personalized aesthetic consultation to assess indications, define objectives and explain every stage of the process.
The procedure is carried out in a structured way to ensure comfort and safety.
Phase
Preparation
The area to be treated is carefully cleansed and an anesthetic cream is applied for about 45–60 minutes to minimize any discomfort during the session.
Treatment
The doctor proceeds by passing the laser handpiece over the area of interest. The duration varies from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the extension of the treated area. During this phase, an intense feeling of heat and tingling may be perceived.
Post-treatment
At the end of the session, the skin will appear red and warm, similar to a strong sunburn. Specific soothing and moisturizing creams are applied to provide relief and protect the skin.
Expected Results and Post-Treatment Advice
The post-treatment phase is crucial for optimal healing and to maximize results. The skin will go through a visible renewal process. In the first 2–3 days redness will be intense, followed by a peeling phase lasting about 5–7 days.
The results are progressive, not immediate. After one week the skin will already appear fresher and smoother, but the real improvement will manifest in the following 3–6 months, the time needed for fibroblasts to produce new collagen.
To ensure perfect healing
Hydration and cleansing Use only gentle cleansers and the soothing and repairing creams prescribed by the doctor.
Absolute sun protection Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 30–40 days and apply daily sun protection with SPF 50 even indoors. This is the most important rule to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Avoid irritating agents Suspend the use of exfoliating products scrubs and acids or alcohol-based formulations until complete healing.
Patience and trust Follow the medical team’s instructions and wait confidently for the regenerative process to unfold for a result that will reward your patience.
FAQ
What should I do after a CO2 laser facial treatment
After a CO2 laser treatment, it is essential to protect the skin from the sun with SPF 50 for at least one month, even indoors. Keep the skin constantly hydrated with the soothing creams prescribed by the doctor, avoid exposure to heat sources such as saunas and do not use exfoliating or aggressive products until complete healing.
Is CO2 laser treatment painful
During the treatment you may feel warmth and tingling. To minimize discomfort, a topical anesthetic is applied about an hour before the session, making the procedure well tolerated for most patients.
How many recovery days are needed after treatment
The social downtime, that is the period in which the skin is visibly red and in the exfoliation phase, lasts about 5–7 days. After this period, it is possible to resume normal activities, continuing to apply careful sun protection.
Who is the ideal candidate for photorejuvenation with CO2 laser
The ideal candidate is someone who shows evident signs of skin aging such as marked wrinkles and laxity, acne scars or sunspots. It is important to be in good health and have realistic expectations regarding the results. A preliminary medical consultation is essential to determine suitability for the treatment.
