Laser Facial Rejuvenation

What I’m holding in my hand feels like a magic wand but the scientific name is fractionated CO2 laser.  Mixto, to be specific (Lasering, USA San Ramon, CA). Fractionated CO2 lasers are one of the latest advancements in skin rejuvenation combining the power of CO2 with dot technology that allows the laser to form patterns that leave healthy skin tissue between areas of laser treatment, reducing pain, healing time and risk of serious side effects.  Much of the world became aware of the magical effects of fractionated CO2 when Madonna debuted her new look at Super Bowl 2012.

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CO2 lasers have traditionally been the gold standard for rejuvenating deeper wrinkles, more severe texture changes from aging and sun damage, “crepey” skin around eyes and necks, acne scars and stretch marks.  The main problem with older CO2 treatments is that they  required literally weeks of “hard” downtime, I mean your worried friends would trade off bringing casseroles by the house because treated areas frightened children.  New technology fractionated CO2 treatments like Mixto can be customized to specific skin issues: texture, tightening, pigment or scarring and downtime can range from 3-5 for less intense treatments to up to10 days for deeper, more intense treatment sessions.  Some patients opt for 2 less invasive treatments instead of 1 more intense treatment to reduce downtime and get the same results.

Fractionated CO2 lasers like Mixto create deep shafts of light damage within the skin to cause immediate contraction and tightening of the skin.  The collateral thermal or heat damage created by Mixto and its patented technology Continuous Wave CO2 pulse creates unprecedented natural collagen synthesis and long term skin tightening.  Controlling for sun exposure, smoking and other factors that can affect skin health, one Mixto treatment can produce significant skin tightening visible for 3-5 years.

Fractionated CO2 lasers are not used for redness and should not be used on the same day as other injectable skin rejuvenation treatments although these treatments can be sequential. This technology should not be used for patients with active tans, patients using photosensitizing drugs like Accutane (within one year), patients on chemotherapy, those who are pregnant, nursing or others with difficulty healing or scarring.

Quick Facts

  • For a typical procedure, patients will plan to be at our clinic for 2-2.5 hours. 

  • Patients will have their skin cleaned and topical numbing will be applied. Anti-anxiety, non-steroidal and stronger pain medications will be available. Patients requiring stronger pain meds will require a driver.

  • The procedure typically takes up to 30 minutes and is typically described as 2-4/10 sensation.  Cool down will follow. 

  • Patients typically look and feel as if they have had a moderate sunburn for the first 24 hours.

  • Patients typically take Motrin or Tylenol, possibly something a little stronger the first day or so. 

  • Skin will begin to peel after 2-7 days, will look a little pinker, smoother and healthier the first 3-6 weeks and natural collagen production peaks somewhere between 3-9 months, which means your skin keeps looking better and better after the procedure.

  • Up to two areas can be treated per session.  Areas that can be treated include face, neck, chest, arms, elbows, hands, and knees.

  • Pricing for face is $2,250 with $500 for an additional area of your choice.

For videos, testimonials, and more information, go to Mixtolaserlift.com.