Lasers and technologies

CO2 laser — scars

A scar is not erased: it is softened. The laser reshapes the relief session after session, and the result is judged over several months. Acne must be stabilised before starting — treating scars on still-inflamed skin makes no sense.

Duration: 20 min
Protocol: Several sessions 4 to 6 weeks apart

Indications

Depressed acne scars
Older scars
Uneven relief after acne

How it goes

The initial consultation
Examination, discussion of your request, screening for contraindications and a written plan. No procedure is carried out on the day of the first consultation: the time to think it over is yours.
Preparing the skin
On intermediate to darker phototypes, two to three weeks of preparation are required before the session: prescribed care and daily sun protection. Unprepared skin has its session postponed, not carried out at its own risk.
The session and aftercare
Protective goggles, a test on a small area, then a pass calibrated to your phototype. Redness, heat and flaking over the following days are expected, explained beforehand and never discovered afterwards.

Frequently asked questions

What about the sun afterwards?

Daily sun protection becomes essential for several weeks, including on overcast days. At our latitude, it is the factor that decides how the result holds on darker skin.

Is it suitable for darker skin?

It depends on the device, the settings and the preparation. Some lasers are not offered beyond a certain phototype, because the risk of pigmentation outweighs the expected benefit. This is one of the reasons a request may be refused.

Are there contraindications?

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, an active skin infection, some autoimmune conditions and certain medications are among them. They are checked in consultation, not ticked on a form — and they can lead to a refusal.

Getting ready