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 surrounding areas of untreated skin to speed healing.
At AesthetiSpa, one of our favorite options for skin rejuvenation is DEKA DOT Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing, and we are excited about the improvements it is making in our patients’ skin without the downtime associated with traditional CO2 Lasers.
What Is The DEKA DOT?
The name DEKA DOT comes from the laser. The DEKA DOT laser provides new technology for fractional laser resurfacing. The difference is the DOT, which stands for Dermal Optical Thermolysis. This refers to the pattern of microscopic channels made in the skin by the laser leaving surrounding skin untouched. The unique pattern options of the DOT make for faster healing and safer, quicker procedures.
How Does The DEKA DOT Compare With Other CO2 Lasers?
The difference in this CO2 laser resurfacing is the DOT, Dermal Optical Thermolysis, pattern technique. The pattern can be adjusted to a wide or narrow pattern 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. DEKA DOT laser delivers a treatment that is safer, quicker, and more efficient than previous CO2 lasers.
What Can The DEKA DOT Improve?
At AesthetiSpa, we are using the DEKA DOT CO2 laser to treat various types of skin issues related to photodamage.
This is what the FDA has approved the DEKA DOT fractional laser to treat:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Acne scarring
- Sun spots
- Large pores
- Areas of uneven pigmentation
- Areas of uneven skin texture
How Does DEKA DOT Work?
When the DEKA DOT laser energy penetrates the epidermis and enters the dermis, the skin’s second layer, the body perceives this to be a wound and instantly 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, improving issues such as wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring and skin laxity.
Who Are The Ideal Candidates For The DEKA Dot Procedure?
Although there are reasons one may not be a candidate for Fractional CO2 treatment, most people can benefit from the skin rejuvenation provided by the DEKA DOT laser. It stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring and skin laxity. Your provider will determine the appropriateness of this skin rejuvenation treatment with you during your consult.
What Is A DEKA DOT Treatment Like?
Prior to treatment, photographs will be taken, and a topical anesthetic will be applied for approximately 60 minutes to ensure a comfortable treatment.
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 any bleeding as with traditional CO2 laser treatments, and DEKA DOT can treat much more sensitive areas such as the neck, the backs of the hands, eyes and areas close to the mouth.
A DEKA DOT treatments are quick and can be done in as little as 30 minutes for a full face.
Is There Recovery After A DEKA DOT Treatment?
Recovery time with DEKA DOT will depend on the strength of the treatment received and the area treated, but generally mild over four to seven days. Your skin will be slightly red across the treatment area and feel as if 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 can occur, so the use of cool packs is recommended 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 healing. We recommend EltaMD Laser Balm 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 as fresher looking skin is revealed.
How Many DEKA DOT Treatments Will I Need?
One treatment can yield amazing results with fresher, brighter skin. However, depending on the area treated, level of damage needing to be addressed and desired results, a series of three treatments may be advised.
When Will I See Results After My DEKA DOT Treatment?
Your face will immediately show a new vitality in response to the microscopic channels. You will notice improvements in your skin, and they will continue to improve for the next two months or so as the body supplies new collagen and elastin to the treatment area.
After DEKA DOT Will I Need To Avoid Sun Exposure?
It is always a good idea to protect your skin from sun damage, but your skin will be sensitive to sun exposure for a period of two months after DEKA DOT treatment so be sure to protect it appropriately. We recommend the use of sunscreen and protective clothing.
Schedule A Consultation
To learn more about Deka Dot, contact us today at 843-849-9925. Or schedule an appointment online.