Lutronic eCO2®

eCO2 is a fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment that utilizes advanced technology to resurface and rejuvenate the skin and remodel scar tissue.

About Lutronic eCO2®

Overview

This non-surgical procedure delivers precise laser energy as low as
0.1 mm to targeted areas of the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response and stimulating collagen production. eCO2 addresses various concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone.

eCO2 offers a powerful solution for individuals seeking significant skin improvement. By addressing a range of concerns and stimulating collagen production, this treatment can create a smoother, more youthful complexion. If you’re considering eCO2, consult a qualified healthcare professional to assess your needs.

Advantages

eCO2 is suitable for individuals seeking significant skin improvement. The ideal candidates for eCO2 include those with:

  • Visible signs of aging: The laser effectively minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
  • Acne or surgical scars: eCO2 can reduce the visibility of acne and surgical scars by promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
  • Sun damage and hyperpigmentation: eCO2 can help restore a more balanced complexion by targeting and minimizing pigmentation irregularities.
  • Enlarged pores and rough texture: The treatment reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, acne-related roughness, and uneven skin texture.
Pros
  • Dramatic results: eCO2 delivers impressive results, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their skin’s texture, tone, and overall appearance.
  • Versatility: This treatment can be customized to target specific concerns and areas of the face, allowing for tailored treatments that address individual needs.
  • Quick recovery time: eCO2 typically requires a shorter recovery than traditional CO2 laser treatments. Most individuals can expect to see initial healing within 5-7 days.
  • Collagen stimulation: eCO2 stimulates collagen production, improving the treated area and enhancing the skin’s overall quality and firmness.
Cons
  • Downtime: Several days after treatment, the skin may appear red, swollen, and flaky. Follow post-treatment care instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
  • Sensitivity: The skin may become more sensitive to sun exposure. Protect your skin with sunscreen and minimize sun exposure to avoid complications and maintain results.
  • Cost: eCO2 is a more advanced laser treatment, which may be associated with a higher price than other non-invasive procedures.
What to Expect

CO2 laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure that takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the size of the treatment area and the desired level of treatment intensity. During treatment, you can expect:

  • Anesthesia: Before fractional CO2 laser treatment, patients will receive local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. An oral sedative may be used to promote relaxation.
  • Fully ablative treatment: General anesthesia will likely be used. Arrange for transportation home if sedation is used.
  • During treatment: The healthcare provider will use a handheld laser device to treat the skin section by section in a grid-like pattern.
  • Pain: Under general anesthesia, you will experience no pain or awareness of the procedure. If you are administered only numbing cream or a local anesthetic, you may feel a sensation similar to snapping a rubber band on your skin.
  • Ointment and dressings: Following the treatment, your skin will be coated with thick ointment and covered in dressings.
Recovery

Downtime varies from several days for fractional treatments to over two weeks for fully ablative ones. During this period, expect swelling, scabbing, and discomfort. You can manage pain with over-the-counter or prescribed medication.

To reduce swelling, use a combination of prescription steroids and ice packs, and elevate your head while sleeping. Follow your doctor’s cleansing and moisturizing instructions, possibly using medical-grade products they recommend.

Moisturize regularly to promote healthy skin turnover and prevent scabbing. After initial healing, expect pink skin for weeks. You can resume using makeup once the area fully heals.
When outdoors, protect your skin from the sun with SPF 30+ sunscreen to prevent damage to the delicate regenerated skin.

Results

Visible outcomes depend on treatment intensity and healing duration. Noticeable results typically appear after skin restoration and redness resolution, taking weeks for fractional treatments and months for fully ablative ones.

Clients see immediate improvements post-healing, but collagen-enhancing effects take a few months to develop as new cells and proteins form fully.

With proper skincare and sun protection, results can last several years. Regular hydration and antioxidant-rich products, along with high-SPF sunscreen, are recommended to prevent recurring damage.

However, skin aging is inevitable, necessitating ongoing maintenance. Continuous laser treatments or other rejuvenation therapies can help sustain results over time.

Safety Profile

Fully ablative CO2 treatments pose significant risks, including burning and scarring due to the complete removal of surface of skin layers. This treatment is not indicated in darker skin types. Healing can be intense, with weeks of swelling, scabbing, and redness. Adhering strictly to post-treatment instructions, including cleansing and moisturizing, is crucial to minimize infection risk. Your provider may prescribe antibiotics post-treatment.

Fractional CO2 treatments carry lesser risks but can still cause burning and scarring, particularly for those with medium to deep skin tones. Following a doctor’s guidance is essential for healthy healing and infection prevention.

Avoid CO2 lasers for active acne as they can exacerbate inflammation and bacterial spread. Those on Accutane therapy or completed within the last 6 months should refrain from CO2 treatment due to impaired healing capabilities.

Inform your doctor of any history of cold sores so that you can receive antiviral medication before treatment to prevent flare-ups.

Cost

$1,000-$4,000 per session. Prices vary depending on the area treated and geography.

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