Alma Hybrid CO2 Laser

Ultimate Skin Rejuvenation

At ReZen MedSpa, we are excited to introduce the Alma Hybrid Laser to our patients. This ablative laser provides a variety of treatments for many different skin concerns. It is ideal for achieving skin rejuvenation and scar treatment for an improved complexion.

The Alma Hybrid laser is the first and only device of its kind to combine two powerful energies to address a variety of skin issues. These energies include optimal ablation for resurfacing, ultimate deep thermal effect for new collagen restoration, and the effective trans-epidermal delivery of skin essentials. It also boasts reduced downtime, so you can get back to your regular activities sooner!

In addition, this laser is equipped with smart software, which allows your doctor to fully customize your treatment by taking into account your skin type, the area being treated, and other parameters.

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“This laser treats fine lines and wrinkles, scarring, and offers overall facial rejuvenation. To discover whether this treatment is right for you, contact us today!”

DR. KAMRAN ABOLMAALI, ReZen Medspa

Book Your FREE Consultation!

At ReZen MedSpa, we are committed to providing the highest level of service. Because our treatments are customized according to your skin type, condition, and goals, we recommend a consultation prior to receiving your initial treatment.

To schedule your consultation, kindly provide your information and a MedSpa representative will contact you right away. Please note that all provided information will remain confidential. We look forward to serving you!

Effective, Safe Skin Resurfacing

The Alma Hybrid combines CO2 laser and non-ablative 1570nm laser technologies to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring. This makes it increasingly effective in resurfacing the skin while remaining safe for most skin types.

For the first time, Alma Hybrid® introduces two must-have laser wavelengths (10,600 (CO2) laser and 1570 nm laser) in one sophisticated platform. While each laser operates at the highest standards independently, Alma Hybrid® pioneers a breakthrough – combining both laser wavelengths which produces a new clinical phenomenon unseen with any other laser device.

Unmatched Personalization
Nearly a dozen unique energy delivery options to optimize results
One-of-a-kind performance with Alma HyPer Delivery
Achieves fast results

Hybrid Laser Q&A

What is Alma Hybrid CO2 laser?

The Alma Hybrid CO2 laser is an advanced skin resurfacing system that combines the effectiveness of CO2 laser technology with the gentleness of a non-ablative 1570nm laser.

This dual-laser device allows the practitioner to fully customize a treatment plan specific to the needs of individual patient with more flexibility and less down-time.

The Alma Hybrid CO2 laser is particularly noted for its efficacy in achieving comprehensive skin rejuvenation with fewer side effects and a quicker recovery period, making it a popular choice among dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons.

What is CO2 laser?

CO2 lasers are commonly used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists for skin resurfacing procedures. These devices emit a focused beam of light at a specific wavelength that targets water molecules within the skin tissue. By heating the tissue, the CO2 laser effectively vaporizes the superficial skin layer, resulting in controlled burning of these layers. This process stimulates the production of collagen and enhances skin elasticity.

Commonly, CO2 laser is employed to treat a variety of skin issues, including fine lines, wrinkles, skin pigmentation, and scars from acne, trauma, or chickenpox. Additionally, they are effective in treating superficial non-malignant skin lesions such as sun-damaged skin pigmentation, actinic keratosis, and liver spots.

How is the Hybrid CO2 laser more advanced than previous generations of CO2 lasers?

Lasers have long been a foundational tool in medical procedures, and ongoing technological advancements are making them safer with less downtime. By shortening the duration of the laser beam emission to nanoseconds, the degree of tissue burn can be controlled more effectively, enhancing both safety and precision of the treatment.

The Hybrid CO2 laser embodies the latest breakthroughs in laser technology. This system enables surgeons to finely adjust the energy levels according to the patient’s specific needs and skin type. Traditionally, CO2 lasers were recommended primarily for individuals with very fair skin. However, the Alma Hybrid CO2 has expanded the safe application of this technology to include darker skin types as well. This development opens up new possibilities for treating a broader range of patients with various skin concerns.

Why is Alma CO2 called Hybrid CO2 laser?

The Alma Hybrid CO2 laser integrates two distinct lasers, which can be administered simultaneously, offering a comprehensive approach to skin treatment. This innovative system combines a CO2 laser with a wavelength of 10600 nm and a non-ablative 1570 nm laser, providing full flexibility to tailor treatments to individual patient needs.

The CO2 laser targets water molecules to ablate the superficial layers of the skin, effectively removing damaged surface cells. In contrast, the 1570 nm wavelength penetrates deeper tissues, heating them to stimulate increased collagen production while preserving the surface layers intact.

By combining the effects of both the CO2 and 1570 nm lasers, the Alma Hybrid can treat all skin layers, achieving maximum rejuvenation effects with minimal downtime. This dual approach ensures a thorough and efficient treatment process, suitable for a variety of skin conditions.

What is a fractional CO2 laser, and how does the Alma Hybrid CO2 laser compare to the Fraxel laser?

The Carbon Dioxide (CO2) laser is versatile and can be used in two distinct forms: ablative and fractional. In its ablative mode, the laser resurfaces the entire treated area, allowing healing to initiate from deeper tissues, such as sweat glands. This approach is more aggressive but can yield dramatic results for suitable patients.

Conversely, the fractional CO2 laser operates differently. It delivers a large number of very thin beams of laser light (microbeams) to the skin, selectively treating the area while leaving surrounding tissues intact. This method promotes much faster healing and quicker recovery.

Additionally, the fractional CO2 laser allows plastic surgeons to treat darker skin types, which are typically not suitable for full ablative CO2 laser treatments. This adaptability makes fractional CO2 laser a valuable option for a broader range of patients.

Alma Hybrid CO2 laser incorporates the fractional nature of Fraxel laser, however, it uses a more potent ablative laser to achieve more superior results.

What skin conditions can the Alma Hybrid CO2 Laser treat?

The Alma Hybrid laser combines the efficacy of a CO2 laser with the versatility of a non-ablative 1570 nm laser, enabling safe and effective treatment of various skin conditions. This dual-laser system is particularly effective in resurfacing the skin to reduce age-related wrinkles, sun damage, and issues with pigmentation. It is versatile enough to be used safely across all skin types, from fair skin (Fitzpatrick 1 and 2) to darker skin (Fitzpatrick 5 and 6).

The Hybrid CO2 laser is adept at addressing a wide range of skin conditions, including:

Fine lines and Wrinkles: Caused by aging, sun exposure, or other factors.
Pigmentation Issues and Uneven Skin Tones: Correcting discoloration and promoting even skin color.
Scarring: Effective in treating different types of scars from acne, chickenpox, or other diseases.
Stretch Marks: Reducing the appearance of stretch marks across various parts of the body.
Melasma: Targeting and diminishing the visibility of melasma on the skin.
Keloid/Hypertrophic Scars: Useful for scars resulting from accidents, burns, or surgical procedures.
Liver Spots: Aiding in the removal of age spots and liver spots.
Benign Skin Lesions: Treating conditions like actinic keratosis or seborrheic keratosis.

The Alma Hybrid laser’s combination of technologies ensures comprehensive treatment capabilities, making it a preferred choice for a variety of dermatological needs.

How many sessions are typically required for CO2 laser treatments?

The typical protocol for CO2 laser treatment aimed at skin resurfacing and rejuvenation involves one to three sessions, depending on the patient’s skin type and the specific condition being treated. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the various treatment options available to you, helping to determine the best approach for your needs.

Generally, more aggressive treatments require fewer sessions but entail longer recovery periods. Deeper ablative treatments, for instance, are more intense but stimulate greater collagen production and yield more dramatic results.

In practical terms, you might opt for a single aggressive treatment that targets all concerned areas but requires a longer downtime. Alternatively, you could choose a milder approach, spreading the treatment over three sessions with shorter recovery times between each.

For certain conditions, such as the treatment of keloids or burn scars, more sessions may be necessary, or a combination of treatments with steroids might be recommended to achieve optimal results.

What can be expected during the recovery period after a CO2 laser treatment?

The recovery period following a CO2 laser treatment varies significantly, depending on factors such as the specific condition being treated, the area of the body targeted, and the intensity of the laser settings used. Recovery times can range from three days to up to 7-10 days, influenced by the depth of ablation and the amount of laser energy applied.

In the first 1-3 days post-treatment, expect swelling and redness in the treated area. It is advisable to stay indoors and avoid sun exposure during this initial phase when the skin is most vulnerable. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, you may start to see peeling between days 3-5 as dead skin flakes off, revealing new, rejuvenated skin beneath. This peeling can be accompanied by itching, and it is crucial not to pick at the peeling skin to avoid scarring.

By 5-7 days, the peeling should subside, unveiling radiant, albeit possibly still slightly reddened, skin. The redness should normalize over the following week.

During your initial consultation at ReZen MedSpa, your plastic surgeon or dermatologist will discuss your aesthetic goals and preferences to craft a personalized treatment plan. They will also provide a comprehensive overview of the expected recovery process and considerations such as sun exposure, travel, and hobbies. This discussion ensures you are well-prepared for the treatment and understand what to expect during the recovery period.

How painful is a CO2 laser treatment?

Before administering CO2 laser treatment, a numbing ointment is typically applied to the skin to minimize discomfort. Most patients experience a mild degree of discomfort during the procedure, often described as a burning sensation. The duration of the treatment varies depending on the area being treated. For instance, addressing a small scar or stretch mark may take only a couple of minutes, whereas treating the entire face and neck could last between 45 to 60 minutes.

For more aggressive treatments, your surgeon may prescribe medication to help you feel slightly sleepy and relaxed. Additionally, facial blocks with anesthetic agents may be administered in some cases to further alleviate discomfort and ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure.

What are the potential risks associated with CO2 laser treatments?

When administered by an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist, CO2 laser treatment is a very safe and effective method for rejuvenating the skin, eliminating wrinkles and pigmented spots, and improving the appearance of stretch marks and scars.

However, there are potential adverse reactions associated with CO2 laser treatment. These include infections, particularly viral infections for those with a history of cold sores or herpes. Other possible side effects are prolonged skin redness, and changes in skin tone, including hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Permanent scarring is extremely rare when the procedure is performed by skilled professionals. The most common complaint following the procedure is skin peeling, which typically occurs 3-5 days after treatment.

Prior to undergoing CO2 laser treatment, you will undergo a thorough evaluation by your physician. This will include an assessment of your history of skin infections, any previous undesirable pigment changes due to sunlight or trauma, and any other relevant medical conditions or medications. This evaluation helps to assess your risk and determine if CO2 laser treatment is the appropriate intervention for you.

Is it necessary to pre-treat the skin before undergoing a CO2 laser treatment?

To enhance the outcome of CO2 laser treatments, your plastic surgeon or dermatologist may recommend starting a medical-grade skin care regimen to prepare your skin. The primary goals of pre-treatment are to accelerate the healing process, reduce recovery time, and minimize the risk of pigmentation changes or prolonged redness after the procedure.

The typical pre-CO2 laser skin regimen includes products containing retinol or tretinoin, coupled with a pigment control product. A licensed aesthetician will assess your skin and recommend the most suitable products tailored to your specific needs.

Additionally, based on your initial consultation, you may be required to take antiviral medications or antibiotics to prevent complications and ensure optimal results from your CO2 laser treatment.

How long is it necessary to avoid sun exposure after undergoing skin resurfacing with a Hybrid CO2 laser?

It is crucial to avoid sun exposure without protection and to refrain from using tanning beds for at least two weeks prior to undergoing a resurfacing procedure. This precaution reduces the activity of pigment producing cells in the skin, which will reduce the risk of pigmentation issues after the laser treatment.

In the days immediately following CO2 laser treatment, it is particularly important to avoid sun exposure until the skin surface has fully healed. This initial healing process typically lasts between 1 to 3 days. Once the skin has healed, you can go outside, but it is advisable to wear appropriate protective gear such as mineral sunscreens and hats to safeguard the newly sensitive skin and ensure optimal healing and results.

What is the best season to undergo skin resurfacing treatments?

The best time to undergo skin resurfacing treatments such as laser procedures, chemical peels, Opus plasma, or microneedling is typically during the fall and winter months. The primary reasons for choosing these seasons include reduced sun exposure due to shorter days, more manageable post-treatment care, and the opportunity to recover over the holiday period when social obligations are often reduced.

Conversely, the summer months present challenges for such treatments. Many people travel and spend more time outdoors in direct sunlight, which increases the risk of complications following laser procedures and similar treatments.

Which is more suitable for eyelid rejuvenation: CO2 laser treatment or eyelid surgery?

The Alma Hybrid CO2 laser is an effective tool for skin tightening, particularly for addressing mild excess skin around the eyes, along with fine lines and wrinkles. It can safely and effectively rejuvenate and tighten the eyelids. However, in cases of more severe skin laxity, skin excision surgery or blepharoplasty may be necessary. For conditions involving herniated fat around the eye, a hybrid blepharoplasty can be performed. This procedure removes excess fat from inside the eyelid and tightens the skin from the outside using the CO2 laser, all without any incisions on the lid. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.

Can a Hybrid CO2 laser effectively remove dark spots on the face?

The most common cause of dark spots on the face and body is skin damage from sunlight and UV light exposure. Additionally, some medical conditions, such as melasma or lupus, can cause or exacerbate dark spots.

CO2 laser treatments are highly effective for addressing dark spots due to aging and sun damage. Other technologies, such as Opus Plasma, are also beneficial in treating this condition. These advanced methods help in significantly reducing the appearance of dark spots, offering a clearer and more even complexion.