Microablative Skin Rejuvenation

The SmartXide DOT laser is a CO₂ fractional ablation laser that combines the effectiveness of the old traditional CO₂ resurfacing lasers with the safety of fractional lasers.  There is reduced downtime, faster healing time, and increased safety compared to traditional CO₂ resurfacing and results are more dramatic than with a non-ablative laser. 

View Before-and-After Photos for this Procedure

How does it work?

Tiny columns or dots of laser energy vaporize the damaged skin and stimulate the growth of fresh, new collagen.  Since only a fraction of the skin is treated, the non-treated adjacent skin promotes fast healing. It is more than skin resurfacing, it is deep skin rejuvenation.

What does it improve?

SmartXide is used to reduce wrinkles and lines, tighten loose, crêpey skin, and treat sun damage, pigmentation, brown age spots, and scarring in individuals with a fair complexion.  It is not used on very dark complexions.  Within a week, skin is smoother, healthier and younger.

Why is SmartXide a unique laser?

The flexibility of SmartXide allows for individualized treatments.  Patients may choose to have a series of mild treatments with very little downtime, or one more aggressive treatment with a longer recovery time. 

What areas can be treated?

Popular areas are the face, neck, décolletage, and hands, but any area can be treated. Small isolated areas such as crow’s feet or lip lines can be treated, or large areas for improved texture and firmness.

Is the procedure painful?

There is minimal discomfort.  An anaesthetic cream is used to numb the skin and Advil is advised.

What happens after the treatment?

Immediately after the treatment, your skin will be red and will feel warm, similar to a sunburn.  There will be some swelling for a few days and then some dryness and perhaps itchiness.  Home care consists of cold compresses and a hydrating cream which will help the skin heal.  Make-up can usually be applied after 3 days.  The dryness peels in about 4 days, revealing fresh, new skin underneath.  The redness lasts for 1 to 2 weeks but can be camouflaged with make-up.  An oral antiviral medication for herpes simplex is always taken for 5 days, starting 2 days before treatment.

When will you see the results?

In 7 to 10 days, there will be a dramatic improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and scarring.  You will notice an overall improvement in radiance and texture, and skin will have a young, healthy glow.  The results will continue to improve over time and will remain for several years given proper skin care and sun protection.

Can SmartXide be combined with other treatments?

Definitely!  Botox and fillers complement SmartXide.  Procedures such as light chemical peels, microdermabrasion and intense pulsed light will help maintain your results.  Antiaging products containing retinol, glycolic acid and antioxidants keep your skin healthy and fresh.