Turn Back the Hands Of Time

By Mariam Alimi, MSN, FNP, BC

The fractional CO2 laser, a skin resurfacing treatment, is considered by many dermatologists to be the anti-aging breakthrough of the decade. Fractional CO2 combines the effectiveness of traditional carbon dioxide lasers with a new application technique to deliver powerful results.

“Essentially, you are getting all the benefits of laser resurfacing, still the best way to remove wrinkles,” says David Goldberg, MD, Director of Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists of New York and New Jersey and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City.

The goal of fractional laser treatment is simple; replace damaged skin with new fresh skin. The primary targets of fractional CO2 include

Fine lines and wrinkles of the face, especially around the upper lip, cheeks and forehead

Crow's feet around the eyes

Pucker marks (smoker's lines) and frown lines

Brown spots and splotchy, uneven skin tone

Scars, especially acne scars

Stretch marks

How Does Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?

The natural aging process, combined with exposure to sun and pollution, destroys collagen, the main protein of connective tissue that keeps skin plump and line-free. Laser resurfacing uses small beams of energy light to bore tiny holes in the skin, which in turn stimulates collagen production.

The results of the treatments can be dramatic, and can last 8-10 years. Most effects of treatment become visible right away, and some, such as new collagen formation, build up gradually. Most people will continue to show improvement up to six months after the procedure.

Tighten Your Eyes With the Madonna Lift

The eyes are an area that oftentimes give our age away because of the aging on the skin that surrounds them. As one ages they may form a number of conditions including dark circles, drooping eyelids or lax skin underneath the eyes.

The”Madonna lift” is a non-surgical procedure that uses laser technology to treat the skin effectively and safely around on the eyelids and the skin that surrounds the eyes. With the Madonna lift one is able to

Rejuvenate the skin's collagen

Reduce wrinkles that surround the eyes

Help reduce crow's feet

Tighten the eyelids and lift the eyebrows to help make the eyes look more alert