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Ask Charmayne | What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Question: I keep hearing about “laser skin resurfacing” and the amazing benefits it offers, but I also hear it’s more of an intense laser treatment with downtime. Is it worth it if my skincare goals are even skin tone, texture, and less scarring?
You have no idea how much I love this question!
What you’re referring to is something we offer at Renew
which is a CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment.
You’ve absolutely heard correctly that this service comes with remarkable benefits for your skin, and it’s also true those results do take more pre and post-treatment care—as well as downtime—to achieve.
Let’s talk about everything CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing has to offer, what you can expect, and if it’s right for you and your customized skincare plan.
What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?
We’re pretty sure you’ve heard all about collagen and how crucial it is to how we age, especially when it comes to how much, or how little collagen we make.
With this specialized micro-ablative laser—used to create small wounds in the skin—it helps to increase collagen production and we all need a little bit more of that!
What Does CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treat?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is highly customizable and aims to support an overall smooth and even skin tone and texture in addition to promoting collagen production.
CO2 laser may also treat—
• Scars
• Warts
• Skin laxity
• Age spots
• Fine lines, wrinkles, and deeper skin challenges
What Is the Care and Maintenance for A CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment?
Here’s where CO2 differs greatly from a lot of our other skin rejuvenation treatments: care and maintenance.
There’ll be both pre and post-treatment for this service in addition to an in-depth skincare consultation.
Your skin type and lifestyle (the sun is not your friend right after) are all factors for consideration.
Compared to our other “lunchtime” services like Laser Genesis
it’s best to block out time to focus on healing as your face may be red and tender for some time post-treatment.
No social events for 7-10 days, not applying make-up, and staying out of the sun is highly encouraged in your healing process and may drive better results.
While we may suggest a series of CO2 treatments, you may see significant improvement in your skin health with just one and increased results over time.
You know my passion for skincare and how much I geek out on bringing you the best technology and knowledge to help you feel comfortable in your own skin.
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is one of my personal favorite treatments, especially for those deeper skin challenges that other services just can’t treat.
This service is a true skin ninja and is perfect for a skin reset when other options just haven’t worked.
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What does the word IV make you think of? A hospital setting, or even better—does the word IV remind you of George Clooney racing down the hospital hallway in ER? (We’ll take the reminder of Mr. Clooney, please!) We understand that the thought of an IV can definitely conjure up a not-so-enticing sterile environment feeling. But what if we said an IV can actually induce relaxation and support your wellness at the same time? We want to welcome you to Drip—IV Vitamin Therapy at Renew Medical Spa in Pueblo, CO. So, what is IV therapy, exactly? Let’s find out… What Is IV Therapy? IV (stands for intravenous) Therapy can deliver vitamins, minerals, medication, and fluids through an IV drip. When this method is used to administer through the veins, your body receives what it needs in the bloodstream quickly and has a better rate (almost 90%) of absorption versus oral administration (about 50%). What Is IV Therapy Used For? IV Therapy is used to deliver much-needed fluids to the body. And in our case, at Renew, that looks like vitamins and minerals that support your immune system, energy to recharge, recovery from too much alcohol intake the night before, and a replenish combination for the athlete. VITAMINS AND MINERALS USED IN IV THERAPY • Zinc— Supports immune function and the body in making proteins and DNA • B-12— A big energy source! This water-soluble vitamin supports the functioning of your nervous system, as well as the production of red blood cells and DNA. • Magnesium— This very important mineral helps with nerve and muscle function, in addition to enzyme reactions in your body. • Amino Blend— This blend of building block proteins enhances muscle tissue repair and increases endurance. Perfect for the athlete who needs balance to their system. • Vitamin B Complex— Supports brain and nervous system function, energy levels and are building blocks of a healthy body. • Vitamin C— A powerhouse vitamin for aging gracefully! Vitamin C supports collagen (plumps the skin), immune system, wound healing, and is crucial for the development, growth, and repair of tissues in the body. • Glutathione— An antioxidant you want in your corner. Glutathione supports the immune system, body detoxification, and neutralizes free radicals. What Are the Benefits of IV Therapy? Aside from the obvious fact you’re taking care of YOU and carving out time for self-care and wellness (which is a big deal!)— IV Therapy offers these added bonuses: • Proper Absorption When a supplement is taken orally the absorption rate can be around 50%; with IV supplementation you’re looking at an absorption rate of close to 90%. This can provide peace of mind especially in regard to the results you’re seeking (energy, immune system support, hydration, etc.). • Customization Most IV drips can be customized to treat your specific concerns, so you can get exactly what you need. • Results An IV Therapy session typically lasts anywhere from 45-60 minutes. During this time, you can relax, watch TV, or catch up on email. As for the results (hydration, energy, etc.)—depending on the person—those can be felt immediately or up to a few days post-session. Are There Risks, If Any, With IV Therapy? With any treatment, one must be aware of any risk involved. Although IV Therapy is generally regarded as safe and low risk, there are a few things to keep in mind. • Anytime an IV is involved there’s a potential risk of infection, inflammation, and blood clots. • Please speak with a medical professional if you’re thinking about IV Therapy if you have kidney disease, blood pressure, or heart conditions. • If not monitored safely during infusion, fluid overload may occur which places you at risk for electrolyte imbalance. At Renew, we like to think of IV Therapy as wellness on demand. Whether you’re an athlete or a busy mom who needs some extra nourishment this is a perfect hour of your day to take care of yourself and your body! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call Renew, or schedule a consultation so we can help you make the best decision for you.
Do you know what the true fountain of youth is? (If that made you think of the movie Death Becomes Her and their “immortality treatment”, it did the same for us!) Aside from a healthy lifestyle, strong self-care, and a positive attitude—we’d have to say collagen ranks up there with the fountain of youth. We know there’s no stopping the clock or test of time, but if we want to slow it down, the increased production of collagen in your skin can absolutely help a youthful appearance (and I think we all want a little piece of that pie!). Please allow us to introduce you to Radiesse® dermal filler—a collagen stimulator that works with your body to reveal a refreshed look. What Is Radiesse Filler? We fell in love with this product and company ( Merz Aesthetics ) from the very beginning because of what they offer and how it works to suit your unique needs. Radiesse is an FDA-approved dermal filler option that may give volume to areas that need help to smooth facial wrinkles, folds, and even hands. How Radiesse Filler Works “Collagen is the main structural protein in our skin—it’s what helps it feel and look tight, taught, and youthful. As we age, the production of collagen slows down, causing skin to sag. RADIESSE is a collagen stimulator. It stimulates the body’s process of generating collagen and encourages growth, for a more refreshed appearance, so beauty can bloom.” – RADIESSE®/Merz Aesthetics This unique dermal filler is made up of CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) gel microspheres that get to work upon injection. Most often, you should see immediate volume before the appointment is over and it continues to work long after by stimulating your own natural collagen (which creates that voluminous look). As time passes, the body metabolizes the CaHA gel and you’re left with your very own natural collagen to help maintain a youthful appearance—which is why this treatment can last longer than most other fillers . What Can I Expect During and After My Appointment? First and foremost, we highly recommend finding the right cosmetic injector . With research and consultation(s), you should be well on your way to finding the right fit for you! Once it’s time for your dermal filler injections, you’ll be given the option of numbing cream to help ease any discomfort that could be associated with the procedure. During this time, you and your cosmetic injector will have ongoing discussions on where you’ll be injected and the look you want to achieve. Aside from signing forms and numbing, the actual injections typically only take 15 minutes or so. As for what happens after your appointment—most people see volume or correction soon after injection and full results within a week or two. Maintenance and follow-up appointments are recommended which will be decided upon between you and your injector. It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort but please consult with your skincare professional if any of those symptoms persist. What Are the Side Effects? If you have any of the following, Radiesse may not be the right dermal filler for you— • Allergy to any component of the product • History of severe allergies • Bleeding Disorder • Pregnant or breastfeeding • Allergy to lidocaine or medicines like it • Skin infection With any dermal filler, please thoroughly go over the intake forms and have an open conversation with your cosmetic injector about any concerns you may have. How Does Radiesse Differ from Other Dermal Fillers? One of the biggest differences with Radiesse is the use of CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) gel microspheres that stimulate the production of collagen versus hyaluronic acid that’s used by most other dermal fillers like Juvederm. Both fillers plump and add volume, but Radiesse works with your body for a long-lasting approach. Radiesse is best used for— • Back of hands for loss of volume • Smoothing facial wrinkles, especially around the nose and mouth • Volume loss in the cheek area • Reshape jawline • Contour the nose area Radiesse has quickly become one of our favorite dermal fillers at Renew! We love how it not only gives us the ability to add volume and reshape, but it also works with your body to produce natural collagen for long-lasting results—which is a key component to the fountain of youth (or at least looking refreshed!).