Fractional laser resurfacing has become increasingly popular for skin rejuvenation over the past several years due to its great results and little downtime. This procedure creates microscopic channels through the epidermis down into the second layer of skin, the dermis, to stimulate collagen production and reduce wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring, and skin laxity. Only a fraction of the skin is treated, leaving the surrounding areas untreated to speed healing.
At AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center, one of our favorite options for skin rejuvenation is DEKA DOT (Dermal Optical Thermolysis) fractional CO2 laser resurfacing. Our team, led by board-certified physician Dr. Christy L. Cone, is excited about the improvements it is making in our patients’ skin without the downtime associated with traditional CO2 lasers.
How the DEKA DOT Works
When DEKA DOT laser energy penetrates the epidermis and enters the dermis, the body perceives this as a wound and immediately remodels the existing collagen in the treated area. After that initial collagen remodeling, the body’s second response is to produce new collagen and elastin. The microscopic laser channels created during treatment heal fully within just a couple of hours, but the increase in collagen production can continue for months. This improves the skin’s texture and quality, addressing issues such as wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring, and skin laxity.
DEKA DOT vs. Other CO2 Lasers
The DEKA DOT stands out from other CO2 laser resurfacing options thanks to its DOT pattern technique. The pattern can be adjusted to be wide or narrow, and we have independent control of both the laser strength and the pulse duration. This allows each treatment to be customized to an individual’s skin concerns and skin type.
Issues the DEKA DOT Can Improve
At AesthetiSpa, we use the DEKA DOT CO2 laser to treat various skin issues related to photodamage, including:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Acne scarring
- Sun spots
- Large pores
- Areas of uneven pigmentation
- Areas of uneven skin texture
Ideal Candidates for the DEKA Dot Procedure
Ideal candidates for the DEKA DOT procedure are individuals with fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, uneven texture, or sun damage who want visible skin improvement without surgery. Candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and be willing to follow aftercare guidance to support proper healing and results.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before treatment, photographs will be taken, and a topical anesthetic will be applied to ensure your comfort.
During the treatment, your provider will determine the appropriate pattern and depth of the scanned laser pulses based on your skin concerns and desired results. The DEKA DOT laser creates thousands of microscopic channels in the skin across the treatment area. For added comfort, a cold stream of air is blown across the treatment area during the procedure.
There isn’t much bleeding as with traditional CO2 laser therapies, and DEKA DOT can treat much more sensitive areas, such as the neck, eyes, and areas near the mouth.
DEKA DOT treatments are quick and can be done in as little as 30 minutes for a full face.
DEKA DOT Recovery
Recovery time with DEKA DOT will depend on the strength of the treatment received and the area treated, but is generally mild, lasting 4 to 7 days. Your skin will be slightly red and feel sunburned for the first 24 hours or so. You will be able to see the “DOTS” immediately after treatment, but these will fade. Slight swelling may occur; use cool packs for a few hours after treatment.
You will need to frequently apply a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer several times a day to keep the skin moist while it heals. We recommend EltaMD Laser Balm, Cerave Healing Ointment, and EltaMD Moisturizer after treatment. These products are available in our office.
Your skin will feel dry and rough, somewhat like sandpaper. This will be followed by peeling or flaking of the outer skin layer, revealing fresher-looking skin.
Why Choose AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center for DEKA DOT Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing in Mount Pleasant, SC?
At AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center in Mount Pleasant, SC, you benefit from experienced, personalized care led by board-certified physician Dr. Christy L. Cone and a team focused exclusively on aesthetic outcomes. Our approach combines advanced technologies like DEKA DOT with thoughtful planning that respects your skin’s needs. You’ll receive clear guidance, customized treatment settings, and ongoing support in an environment where patient comfort and natural-looking results come first.
FAQs
One treatment can yield significantly fresher, brighter skin. However, depending on the area treated, the level of damage to be addressed, and the desired results, a series of three treatments may be advised.
Your face will immediately show a new vitality in response to the microscopic channels. You will notice improvements in your skin that will continue for the next 3 months or so as the body continues to supply new collagen and elastin to the treatment area.
Yes. It is always a good idea to protect your skin from sun damage, but your skin will be sensitive to sun exposure for 2 months after DEKA DOT treatment, so be sure to protect it appropriately. We recommend using sunscreen and protective clothing.
DEKA DOT can be used on some darker skin tones, but careful evaluation is essential. Skin with more pigment has a higher risk of post-treatment discoloration, so settings, depth, and timing of treatment matter. At AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center, your provider carefully evaluates your skin tone, pigmentation history, and goals before recommending this service. In some cases, pre-treatment skincare or alternative laser options may be suggested to support safer healing and more predictable results.
DEKA DOT can improve the appearance of many acne scars by stimulating collagen production and promoting a smoother skin texture. While it works well for shallow to moderate scarring, deeper or more pitted scars may require multiple sessions or a combination approach. Your provider may suggest pairing fractional laser resurfacing with other treatments to address the depth of your scars. During your visit, scar type, location, and skin quality are reviewed to determine whether DEKA DOT alone or a combined plan is the best fit.
Skin preparation helps support smoother healing and more even results. In the weeks before treatment, your provider may recommend pausing certain skincare products that increase sensitivity. Avoid tanning, excessive sun exposure, and self-tanners, as these can raise the risk of uneven pigment. Keeping skin well hydrated and following any pre-treatment instructions provided by the AesthetiSpa team helps your skin respond more comfortably during and after the procedure.
DEKA DOT stimulates the production of new collagen, which can provide long-lasting improvements in skin texture and tone. However, the natural aging process and ongoing sun exposure continue. While many patients enjoy results for years, maintenance treatments may be recommended to support collagen levels and address new skin changes. Your provider can help you plan a long-term skin strategy based on your goals, lifestyle, and how your skin responds after the initial treatment series.
Melasma and hormonally influenced pigmentation can be complex and unpredictable. While DEKA DOT may improve overall skin texture and tone, it is not always the first choice for melasma. In some cases, laser treatments can aggravate pigment conditions if not carefully selected. At AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center, your provider evaluates the cause of pigmentation and may recommend alternative light-based treatments or a skincare-focused approach, either before or instead of fractional laser resurfacing.
Certain skincare ingredients can increase irritation or sensitivity around the time of treatment. Common ingredients to avoid include retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, and products containing strong fragrances. After treatment, it’s important to stick with gentle, non-irritating products while the skin heals. Your provider will provide clear guidance on when to pause and reintroduce specific products to keep your skin comfortable and heal as expected.
Schedule A Consultation
To learn more about DEKA DOT fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, contact AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center today at 843-849-9925. Our team in Mount Pleasant, SC, is here to answer your questions and help you decide if this is the right treatment for you.
