SmartSkin Fractional CO2 Laser

Smartskin+™ is a laser skin resurfacing system that features the use of a micro-ablative, CO2 laser to produce a more even skin tone, smoother skin texture, and reduced wrinkles. The micro-ablative technology is superior to the fully ablative and non-ablative laser skin resurfacing systems that are currently on the market. The micro-ablative technology removes just a fraction of damaged skin during a treatment session; this greatly reduces the severity of side effects and recovery time after treatment, when compared to fully ablative laser treatment. At the same time Smartskin+™ offers more effective results than non-ablative laser systems; by incorporating the use of the CO2 laser, patients experience more dramatic skin-smoothing outcomes. At the Bay Area practice of Dr. John Griffin, single or multiple Smartskin+™ laser resurfacing sessions can be performed to improve the appearance of the skin.

Smartskin+™ Candidates

The Smartskin+™ laser skin resurfacing system effectively addresses many types of skin flaws, including:

  • Wrinkles
  • Some brown spots
  • Skin irregularities
  • Uneven pigmentation
  • Aging of the neckline
  • Acne scars and other facial scarring

Ideal results may be achieved with a single treatment session for minor skin flaws, or multiple treatment sessions for moderate to severe facial flaws.

The Smartskin+™ Treatment Process

When patients arrive at our office to undergo the Smartskin+™ treatment process, we apply numbing cream and injections to the face to make the procedure more comfortable. Patients may also take a prescribed pain medication and anti-anxiety medication. Once the local anesthetic has taken effect, the hand-held laser is applied to the first zone of the treatment area. Tiny pulses of laser light are directed at the skin, creating microscopic holes and increasing collagen production. The series of laser energy pulses is continued until the area has been sufficiently treated. Dr. Griffin may pass over the treatment area with the laser one to three times, depending on your comfort level and the degree of treatment needed. In most cases, treatment is completed in less than 30 minutes.

The intensity of the Smartskin+™ laser pulses can also be customized to the patient. By selecting higher or lower settings for certain parameters, physicians are better able to treat all types of patients.

Results of the Smartskin+™ System

As the patient heals from the Smartskin+™ laser treatment, even and smooth skin is revealed. Patients should keep in mind that it can take one to two months to see the final effects of treatment. For the first couple of weeks, patients will experience swelling and redness of the facial skin. This is to be expected, and takes time to fade. As the swelling and redness subsides, patients will notice that their complexion is more evenly toned and the surface of the skin is smoother.

To find out if Smartskin+™ laser skin resurfacing is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Griffin. Dr. Griffin can determine how many Smartskin+™ laser treatments will be needed to achieve the patient’s desired results.