Over time, sun exposure and natural aging can leave behind fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, acne scars and rough texture. The SmartXide Tetra CO₂™ laser by DEKA is one of the most versatile CO₂ lasers available, letting our providers tailor every treatment, from a gentle refresh with minimal downtime to deeper resurfacing for more significant concerns.
What it can help improve
- Fine lines and wrinkles, including the delicate area around the eyes
- Acne scars
- Sun damage, sun spots and dark spots
- Pore size
- Rough or uneven skin texture
How it works
The SmartXide Tetra CO₂™ delivers precise pulses of laser energy to the skin. As the treated areas heal, newer, smoother skin is revealed and collagen production is stimulated beneath the surface. Four treatment modes allow your provider to customize the depth and intensity of every treatment to your skin and your goals.
CoolPeel®: resurfacing with minimal downtime
The Tetra is the only laser that can perform a CoolPeel®. It uses a short, high-powered pulse that resurfaces the top layer of skin without heating the surrounding tissue, so recovery is much quicker than with traditional CO₂ treatments. CoolPeel® can help improve the appearance of fine lines, sun damage, pore size and skin texture.
Preparing for your treatment
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and self-tanners for one month before treatment. Tanned skin cannot be treated.
- Most patients begin a medical-grade skin care program about four weeks before treatment to prepare the skin.
- Your provider will review your medications and supplements, and some may need to be paused before treatment.
- If you have a history of cold sores, let us know so we can help prevent a flare-up.
What to expect during treatment
Numbing cream is applied before treatment for your comfort, and a chiller blows cool air across the skin while the laser is working. Protective eyewear is worn throughout. Treatment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area. You may feel heat and tingling as the laser moves across the skin.
Recovery
- CoolPeel® treatments have minimal downtime.
- With deeper resurfacing, your skin will feel warm and look sunburned at first. Swelling usually peaks at 2 to 3 days and resolves within 7 to 10 days. Redness generally fades within a few days but can remain faint for up to a month.
- You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions and a follow-up visit the next day. Mineral makeup can usually be worn after about 4 days.
- Avoid sun exposure for at least three weeks after treatment and always wear a mineral SPF 50+.
How many treatments will I need?
You and your provider will choose a plan based on your goals and how much downtime you can take. Some patients choose a series of lighter treatments with minimal downtime, while others prefer a single deeper treatment for more dramatic results.
