Resurfacing is a procedure in the field of Aesthetic Medicine that promotes skin renewal, thus contributing very effectively to reducing signs of ageing and other marks on the skin, such as scars and blemishes.
In this article we’ll go into all the main issues related to resurfacing, including what it’s for, how it works and what results to expect.
What is resurfacing and what is it for?
Skin resurfacing is an advanced dermatological procedure that uses laser technology to improve the texture, tone and general appearance of the skin.
Resurfacing can be used to smooth wrinkles, even out skin tone (including reducing the appearance of blemishes), fade scars and stretch marks (especially white ones) and generally rejuvenate the skin.
How does it work?
Resurfacing is a medical (dermatological) treatment that allows the most superficial layer of the skin to be completely renewed.
In this way, newer skin is formed and, at the same time, collagen production is stimulated, thus improving sagging, imperfections and facial skin tone.
At Living Clinic, resurfacing is carried out using precision laser technologies, with very satisfactory results.
Laser resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing is an innovative technique in aesthetic medicine that uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove layers of skin in a fractionated manner.
Fractionated CO2 lasers are particularly advantageous for their ability to provide significant skin resurfacing results with a lower risk of complications and rapid recovery.
Resurfacing Before and After (results)
With this treatment, you can expect rejuvenated skin with a smoother texture and fewer wrinkles and expression marks.
In addition, the skin is brighter and more evenly colored, as the laser also treats spots and keratoses caused by sun damage.
The CO2 laser is an effective tool for reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks, as it removes the damaged epidermis and part of the dermis, where these marks are often located. In addition, the CO2 laser, through the controlled “microlesions” it causes in the skin, causes the cells to produce more collagen and elastin, two proteins that are vital for the skin’s firmness and elasticity. The increased production of these proteins helps to fill out and smooth the skin, reducing the depth and visibility of scars and stretch marks.
Results begin to be visible after 2-3 weeks, with progressive improvement over 6 months.
Care after treatment
The main care to be taken after treatment is sun protection, which is why the CO2 laser is generally only performed in the winter months. As well as avoiding the sun, it is mandatory to use sunscreen and products that stimulate skin recovery, such as repair creams. In the consultation prior to the treatment, an individualized skin care routine is drawn up, where specific products are indicated for use before and after the resurfacing.
Is resurfacing performed by a doctor?
Yes. At Living Clinic, this procedure is performed by Dr. Paola Halfeld or Dr. Diogo Semedo, who specialize in Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, respectively.
Is resurfacing safe? Does it have side effects?
There are several studies that demonstrate the efficacy and safety of resurfacing using the Fractional CO2 Laser, when performed by specialized professionals, as is the case at Living Clinic.
The CO2 laser is a technology that is generally well tolerated and has very few side effects. In some cases, as a side effect, the treatment can result in redness and a “pulling” sensation, which tends to disappear within a few weeks. As with any laser treatment, there is an associated risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and it is recommended that sun exposure is avoided in the period following treatment. It is of the utmost importance that the laser is carried out by a specialist doctor, who will take all precautions for the patient’s safety.
Resurfacing: Before and After
Meet the patient who used CO2 laser treatment to reduce moles, spots and other irregularities in CO2 Laser Before and After
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Before any aesthetic procedure, the doctor will assess your particular case and indicate whether this is the most appropriate treatment. Schedule an appointment to clarify all your doubts and find out the price.
Responsible for the treatment
Dr. Paola Halfeld is a specialist in Dermatology from the Brazilian Medical Association and holds a Master in Public Health from the University of Porto. She completed her degree in Medicine at Estácio de Sá University in Rio de Janeiro. Subsequently, she completed her integrated master’s degree in medicine at the University of Algarve, registering with the Portuguese Medical Society in 2020.
She is a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology and a member of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
During her training, she completed internships at leading institutions such as the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) and the National Cancer Institute (INCA). She was a fellow in aesthetic dermatology and trichology (an area of dermatology that studies and treats hair disorders).
Dr. Halfeld is a regular participant in medical conferences and events, contributing to scientific communications as main author and co-author, in addition to numerous courses and training courses in many areas of dermatology. She recently presented her master’s study at the World Congress of Dermatology in Singapore.
Dr. Halfeld has a special interest in the treatment of diseases affecting the scalp and hair and in cosmetic dermatology. It is her practice to perform a complete physical examination for skin cancer screening in all her patients.
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