Are you feeling anxious about acne scars, wrinkles, dark spots, or other skin conditions that are affecting your confidence? I certainly was. I had a somewhat rough teenage life, suffering from severe pimple breakouts for most of my adolescence, which left some noticeable acne scars on the side of my face and somewhat visible open pores. Although I no longer suffer from frequent breakouts, I still experience occasional episodes of pimples, often triggered by stress and an oily complexion. These recurring blemishes, combined with scars from the past, sometimes make me look exhausted.
Fortunately, I met Dr. Darwin Ferrolino of Variahealth, a dentistry and aesthetic clinic located in Katipunan, Quezon City. After several visits for dental checkups and braces adjustments—and being consistently pleased with their services—I decided to consult with Dr. Ferrolino regarding my skin concerns.
The CO2 Fractional Laser
Following an initial consultation, Dr. Darwin recommended the CO2 Fractional Laser treatment to address my noticeable acne scars, dark spots, and fine lines. According to Dr. Darwin, this treatment is a non-surgical procedure that utilizes a carbon dioxide laser to resurface the skin by creating microscopic holes. These tiny injuries promote the skin’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen production and improving overall skin texture and tone.
Since I was warned that the procedure might be painful, it took me another week to decide to go through with it, as I have a low pain tolerance.
The Procedure
The treatment begins with thoroughly cleansing the face. In my case, I had a facial cleaning with a diamond peel a week before my first session due to my initial hesitation. If you have a low pain tolerance like me, I also recommend taking paracetamol beforehand to help manage any discomfort.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:
- Cleaning the Face: This is essential to remove dirt and oil, ensuring the laser penetrates effectively.
- Applying Numbing Cream: A numbing cream is applied to the face and covered with a plastic film for 15-20 minutes to minimize pain during the procedure.
- Using the CO2 Laser: The laser is then applied to the face, targeting specific areas with acne scars, dark spots, and wrinkles.
- Post-Treatment Care: After the laser treatment, a cream containing antibiotics is applied to prevent infection and aid healing.
Based on my experience, the most intense pain occurred within the first hour and a half after the procedure. To cope with this, I suggest staying in a cool area or having a mini fan on hand. JISU IS LIFE!!!
Downtime and Aftercare
The downtime for this procedure ranges from 5 to 7 days. During this period, it’s crucial to avoid sun exposure and apply sunscreen whenever you need to go outside. Proper aftercare will ensure optimal healing and results.
Here’s how my face looked from Day 1 to Day 7 post-treatment:
Clearer Skin
I have undergone two sessions of the CO2 Fractional Laser so far, and the results have been remarkable. My skin appears visibly clearer, with reduced acne scars on the side of my face. It also looks more youthful, with a smoother texture thanks to the revitalized skin.
The CO2 Fractional Laser treatment at Variahealth is truly effective, but maintaining healthy skin still requires consistent skincare, enough sleep, regular exercise, and staying well-hydrated.
