Choose Your Clinic

MEDICAL Guelph: (519) 836-8558
MEDICAL Burlington: (905) 849-5057
Derma Skin Institute Banner
Home » eCO2™ Laser Skin Resurfacing

eCO2™ Laser Skin Resurfacing

When advanced signs of aging begin to show in our late 40s and early 50s—and become more pronounced in our 60s and 70s—we turn to more aggressive treatments such as CO2 medical laser skin resurfacing at our Guelph, Ontario dermatology practice. This is often the most effective approach for treating lax skin with rough texture, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and sun damage.

Women and men choose deRMA Skin Institute because we use a comprehensive approach called the 5 Dimension Skin Plan™. Developed by our lead cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Dusan Sajic, the 5 Dimension Skin Plan addresses the range of issues responsible for aging’s effects on your appearance.

What Is ECO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Fractional CO2 medical laser skin resurfacing is the gold standard when it comes to nonsurgical skin rejuvenation treatments. Even though there have been numerous skin rejuvenation treatment advances, CO2 laser procedures remain the single most effective nonsurgical treatment for safely treating:

  • Deep Wrinkles
  • Acne, chickenpox, or other scars
  • Damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, and aging

We routinely recommend including a fractional CO2 laser procedure as part of a customized treatment plan for patients with advanced signs of skin damage and aging.

Guelph Dermatologist Dr. Dusan Sajic shares his CO2 laser treatment results

Guelph Dermatologist Dr. Dusan Sajic shares his CO2 laser treatment results
Are CO2 laser treatments worth the required downtime? Dr. Dusan Sajic of deRMA Skin Institute in Guelph says yes, especially for patients with significant sun damage, pre-cancers or fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Sajic shares his laser skin rejuvenation treatment experience and results. Although "lighter" treatments such as those that use intense pulsed light may be less invasive with little to no downtime, CO2 laser treatment can address more significant skin issues for dramatic improvements in the skin's appearance.

Hi everybody. Dr. Sair again from Derma Skin Institute coming to you after my carbon dioxide laser procedure. So you’ve just seen how I, did you see what my recovery was like and how we did it sort of thing with the whole experience of the CO2 laser? So was it worth it? I absolutely think so. I think my complexion is much better. Everything’s looking better. I think as far as any one laser is concerned. For someone like myself who’s over 40 years old, and you’re starting to see a lot of this pigmentation associated or a little pre-cancerous keratosis, there’s no single better laser than it for numerous reasons. The number one being really is the DNA repair. So we know when we start getting into sort of these aging related pigmentation and we have it from the sun, from all of the exposure, we know that our skin cell is not only just looking, not it’s optimal, but it’s actually the function of those skin cells is not as best as it could be because all of that sun exposure has actually gotten ourselves into something called senescence.

Okay? So you’ll see a bunch of articles on it. There’s more and more data, more and more research on senescence being a key marker of shutting down our cellular response, making us age faster, and also actually making us more susceptible to pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. So what ablative lasers like carbon dioxide laser like lasers are able to do is actually not only make us look better, but actually repair the DNA repair enzyme processes to a certain extent so that it minimizes how much damage and we have, and also how our skin cells are able to process and eliminate some of the damage that we get through activities like being outside, getting exposed to the sun and even blue light from this very screen. So for me, I know about the blue screen, so I’ve put on a filter on this phone and you should do the same because that we know can also contribute to aging and actually damage your DNA as well.

So overall, I’m very, very happy. I think my complexion is much better. It’s tightened my skin a bit and the pigmentation that I was experiencing is much better. So my wrinkles, and I know my skin cells are healthier. I’m overall very happy. As you know, obviously the downtime is an issue for many people, but for me it was quite tolerable. There was a little bit of pain and swelling initially, but after that, very well tolerated. So if you’re okay looking like Deadpool for a little bit, then there’s going to be benefits to it. I look at it, it’s sort of like going to the gym and for your dream skin, really the Derma Skin Institute here, where very much big believers of that, no pain, no gain, just like exercise. And so I’m all for it. So what doesn’t it do? So no laser is going to do everything.

If you’re looking for optimal treatments and based on what your decisions are, is it per sun protection? Is it for looking better? Is it for preventing father time? That last one’s a big goal for me as well. You need to add things so it doesn’t build elastin, so that’s the stretchy part of your skin for that. There’s other things like dilute radius is one. There’s also radiofrequency microneedling, or even just radiofrequency to a lesser extent, but that can be done as well. So things like Morpheus eight, for example, would be a great add-on to this procedure, and many patients choose to do that. So we’ll be going through that in another video, but for now we’re focusing on CO2. So once we get to where we want to be, the biggest thing is also maintenance. Many patients are asking, many people are asking, how long does this last?

Well, it depends on what you do. If you’re really sticking to your vitamin C sunscreen and retinol, it can really prolong when you need to do it again. And generally speaking, we sort of say two to five years before you need to repeat this particular procedure. And in addition to the creams, there’s other things you can be doing. So what we call a Hollywood laser peel, for example, where it’s a lunchtime, you don’t even know you had it done. It’s called clear lift or something similar to that. If you do that every sort of four to six months, it can also help delay the need for it later on. Other things like microneedling, for example. So that’s where we just go in with just regular needles or even radiofrequency assisted microneedling. Again, if you really want that elastin, but microneedling on its own can really, again, get the wounding process. It’s controlled wounding, just like when you’re exercising your wounding and your muscles. That’s why actually they grow bigger is when they repair themselves. Same with this, if we’re doing it in a controlled way, anywhere between every three to six months kind of thing. So at a time you’re getting your Botox done, for example, or Dysport, adding something like microneedling can really be helpful. So all in all, it’s really important to take care of your skin, do your best that you can. Stay tuned for more informational videos and take care.


How Does A CO2 Laser Work?

Researchers developed the CO2 laser in the 1980s to treat damaged and aging skin using targeted beams of laser energy to remove the outer layer of skin. Fresh, youthful-looking skin replaced the damaged skin as the healing process produced new collagen, which tightens, thickens, and volumizes skin over time.

Because these treatments were fully ablative—removing the entire surface of the skin—they were painful, required relatively long downtimes, and posed more risk of adverse side effects such as prolonged redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (skin discolouration).

Modern CO2 lasers, however, use fractional technology. Just like a showerhead will split a single flow of water into multiple small streams, fractional lasers create a similar effect, targeting laser energy to pinpoint columns while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. We customize the depth and density of the treatment, and patients can recover much more quickly with less discomfort than with ablative laser skin resurfacing.

What’s Different About ECO2 Laser Treatments?

The eCO2 laser technology used at deRMA Skin Institute is safer than other fractional CO2 lasers. It penetrates the skin with small micro-laser beams, producing smaller injuries called microscopic ablative columns (MACs). The laser’s proprietary technology minimizes the thermal bystander effect, which greatly reduces the chance of adverse post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Your skin recovers quickly with less downtime and less risk of adverse effects.

In contrast to other CO2 lasers, Lutronic’s eCO2 uses Controlled Chaos Technology (CCT) to radiate multiple microscopic laser beams that fire in a controlled irregular pattern, helping to avoid focused heat and linear demarcation along non-lasered areas. This technological advance of CCT allows for faster healing, speedier recovery, and results that look more natural.

Furthermore, your physician precisely controls the laser beam’s penetration depth with numerous parameters that can be adjusted during treatment based on your needs and goals. In this way, we can tailor laser resurfacing treatments to be light, intermediate, or deep, depending on the patient’s needs.

Who Should You Choose For CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

The person using the technology is just as important as the treatment itself. That’s true of all aesthetic procedures. In the hands of a highly trained, knowledgeable professional, CO2 laser resurfacing is a safe way to dramatically improve your skin’s appearance. In the hands of a poorly trained individual, lasers can be ineffective or even dangerous. That’s why patients considering CO2 laser treatments shouldn’t base their decisions solely on a brand name laser or the best deal. Fixing poorly done results can be much more costly, including the potential of irreversible skin damage.

What is your best bet? Choose a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has the proper qualifications and is board certified. Board certification means that your dermatologist has undergone a rigorous residency (specialty training after medical school) that includes nonsurgical treatments such as laser skin resurfacing.

What Skin Concerns Do ECO2 Lasers Treat?

As leaders in non-invasive and nonsurgical anti-aging treatments, we’ve developed protocols to target many of your concerns with the eCO2.

Full-face treatments typically take about 20 to 45 minutes with minimal downtime when compared to traditional CO2 laser resurfacing. We use eCO2 laser skin resurfacing to:

  • Minimize fine lines and deep wrinkles
  • Tighten skin on face and neck
  • Reduce the appearance of scars
  • Improve skin tone around eyelids jowls and neck
  • Repair sun-damaged skin and rough texture in the face, chest, and hands

Dr. Sajic or another provider discusses your specific concerns and creates a customized treatment plan at your initial consultation.

How Should I Prepare For The ECO2 Treatment?

Given that CO2 laser treatments involve some risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—especially in patients of darker skin colour—we may recommend that you pre-treat your skin with products such as hydroquinone, arbutin, and vitamin C that address pigmentation.

To prepare for your eCO2 treatment, we will advise you to:

  • Stop smoking for a few weeks
  • Avoid certain medications for a few weeks (blood thinners, retinol among others)
  • Not drink alcohol for at least a week
  • Discuss any and all concerns with your doctor
  • Avoid the sun for at least 2 weeks (and continue protecting your skin with proper skin care and sun block after the treatment)
  • Be prepared to follow post-laser treatment instructions very diligently

As some patients are very sensitive to pain, we may need to administer pain medication that could make you drowsy after the procedure. If you know you are very sensitive, we recommend that you arrange for someone else to drive you to the clinic.

During your consultation, our team will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your procedure. Sticking to those guidelines will help to ensure your safety and the success of your treatment.

What Happens During Your ECO2 Treatment?

About 30 to 45 minutes before beginning the procedure, we’ll apply a topical anesthetic cream to numb the treatment area. If you have a low tolerance for pain, you may also request an injection of a local anesthetic, prescription pain medication, or Penthrox, a type of “laughing gas,” to help you remain comfortable during the treatment. Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. Some anesthesia may require you to arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home.

We provide you with protective eyewear before starting the treatment. During the procedure, you can expect to feel warmth or a snapping sensation as the laser energy contacts the treatment area. The procedure may involve one or more passes, depending on your needs.

After completing the treatment, we’ll apply healing lotion and sunscreen to your face. We provide written post-care instructions that should be closely followed. Make sure to tell your doctor if you have cold sores, as we will need to give you medication to prevent an outbreak while you are healing.

What Is Recovery Like After An ECO2 Laser Treatment?

The nature of your recovery depends on the depth and intensity of the treatment. Light CO2 laser treatments generally have minimal downtime, and most patients experience slight redness and peeling that lasts for 2 to 5 days. You can return to work immediately after light CO2 treatments.

More aggressive laser skin resurfacing produces significant redness, skin crusting, and in some cases, swelling during the first 2 to 5 days. Pain is typically mild to moderate and can be managed with over-the-counter medication. Patients rarely need prescription pain relief. Most laser skin resurfacing patients can return to their normal activities within 7 days of aggressive CO2 treatments. Adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to your treatment—whether a light, medium, or deep procedure—helps speed up recovery by 24 to 48 hours and enhances the benefits of the treatment.

When Will I See Laser Skin Resurfacing Results?

You should notice results immediately after the recovery process, which is usually 1 to 2 weeks. Results continue to improve as the skin heals for up to 6 months. You’ll notice your skin becoming tighter and more plump and supple.

Can I Combine The ECO2 With Other Treatments?

Absolutely. CO2 laser treatment can be an essential component of our patented 5 Dimension Skin Plan (available only at deRMA Skin Institute). We strongly believe that combining treatments—whether at the same time or more gradually at separate visits—will provide the full benefit of looking the most refreshed and most natural.

The most common treatments we combine with laser skin resurfacing include AccuTite™, injections of dermal fillers such as JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, or Radiesse®, and radiofrequency microneedling. You can discuss your options for combination treatments at your consultation.

Schedule A Consultation

Women and men interested in eCO2 medical laser skin resurfacing in Guelph, Kitchener, Cambridge, and surrounding areas in Southwestern Ontario choose deRMA Skin Institute for their treatments. Request a consultation using the online form or call us at (888) 803-3762 to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists.

Best Board Certified Dermatologist Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD

Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD

Famous Board Certified Dermatologist Richard Backstein, MD

Richard Backstein, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist near me Sonja Sajic, CCPA

Sonja Sajic, CCPA

Board Certified Dermatologist near me Daniel Wong, MD, FRCPC

Daniel Wong, MD, FRCPC

Board Certified Dermatologist near me Tiffany Chen, MD, FRCPC, DABD

Tiffany Chen, MD, FRCPC, DABD

Canadian Certified Physician Assistant, Toni Alberto, CCPA

Toni Alberto, CCPA

With more than 20 years of experience, deRMA Skin Institute strive to offer patients the most advanced treatments available to keep their skin healthy and looking its best. Board Certified Dermatologist, Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD, board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Richard Backstein, MD, FRCSC, Sonja Sajic, CCPA, Toni Alberto CCPA, Tiffany Chen MD PRCPC and Daniel Wong MD FRCPC are committed to providing state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients in Guelph, Burlington, Cambridge, Kitchener, Hamilton, Milton, and surrounding areas.

OUR PATIENTS SAY IT BEST

Contact Us

Fields marked * are required

If you are an existing patient inquiring about appointments and services, please contact

Guelph Cosmetic Department: (888) 803-3762 cosmetic@dermaskininstitute.com

Guelph Medical Department: (519) 836-8558 patientcare@dermaskininstitute.com

Burlington Cosmetic Department: (888) 803-3762 burcosmo@dermaskininstitute.com

Burlington Medical Department: (905) 849-5057 burmedical@dermaskininstitute.com