::cosmetic alternatives BY DEAN DEROBERTS, MD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY BELL
The anti-aging breakthrough of the decade, according to many doctors, is a skin-resurfacing treatment known as CO2 fractional laser therapy. Combining the effectiveness of traditional carbon dioxide lasers, long thought to be the gold standard in wrinkle removal, with a new application technique, it delivers powerful results without the traditionally harsh side effects. How does it work? The natural aging process, combined with exposure to sun and pollution, destroys collagen, which is the main protein of connective tissue that keeps skin plump and line-free. Laser resurfacing uses beams of energy light to bore tiny holes in the skin, which works to put the body’s natural collagen production on fast-forward. Here’s what’s new: Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing does this in a way that prevents damage to the top layer of skin, offering maximum results with minimal recovery time. 56
may 2012 :: syracuseWomanMag.com
The process starts with a consultation to determine if a patient will benefit from the treatment. If they are suitable, the process begins with the application of a topical anesthetic cream, and no other sedation is needed. Once the area is numb, the laser treatment takes 10 to 30 minutes. There is minimal post-treatment discomfort, but the patient will have to stay indoors and apply ointment for the first three days after the procedure. After three days, the skin will appear to have mild sunburn, but makeup can be applied and normal activities can be resumed. Immediate results can be seen, but the skin will continue to improve for three months as collagen is created. It is said to, “reveal layers of beauty.”