esthetics by emi med spa
Your Salt Lake County Expert

AcuPulse CO₂ Laser:

AcuPulse is a fractional CO₂ laser designed for deep skin resurfacing and rejuvenation. It works by emitting short, concentrated beams of laser energy that create thousands of microscopic perforations in the skin’s surface. These controlled injuries remove damaged outer layers while heating the underlying tissue, stimulating new collagen production and encouraging fresh, healthier skin to emerge.

Unlike traditional fully ablative CO₂ lasers, which remove the entire top layer of skin, AcuPulse follows a fractional approach—treating only a portion of the skin in a grid pattern. This speeds up healing time while still delivering dramatic improvements in skin texture, tone, and tightness. The result is smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin without the extended downtime associated with older resurfacing methods.

AcuPulse is highly customizable, offering multiple treatment modes that allow for adjustments in laser depth, intensity, and density. Whether performing a light fractional peel for minor rejuvenation or a more aggressive resurfacing for deeper wrinkles and scars, the treatment can be tailored to each patient’s needs.

Benefits of AcuPulse CO₂ Laser

This treatment is widely recognized as one of the most effective non-surgical skin resurfacing options available. By precisely targeting damaged skin cells and stimulating the body’s natural repair process, it can address a variety of concerns, including:

  • Fine lines and deep wrinkles – AcuPulse softens lines around the eyes, forehead, and mouth, helping to restore a smoother, younger-looking complexion.
  • Skin laxity and texture – By tightening existing collagen fibers and promoting new growth, the laser firms sagging skin, particularly on the jawline, cheeks, and under-eye area.
  • Acne scars and surgical scars – Fractional CO₂ resurfacing is particularly effective at reducing pitted acne scars and improving skin texture. It encourages the regeneration of new skin, gradually filling in scars and smoothing the surface.
  • Sun damage and hyperpigmentation – The laser eliminates dark spots, sun spots, and uneven pigmentation, leading to a brighter and more even skin tone.
  • Large pores and rough texture – The resurfacing effect minimizes enlarged pores and rough patches, making the skin feel significantly softer and more refined.

One of the biggest advantages of AcuPulse is that a single treatment can achieve visible, long-lasting results. While other non-ablative treatments may require multiple sessions for noticeable improvement, a well-executed AcuPulse session can dramatically enhance the skin’s appearance with just one procedure.

What to Expect During Treatment

The procedure typically begins with the application of a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort. In some cases, local anesthesia or mild sedation may be used, especially for deeper treatments. Once the skin is prepped, the laser device is passed over the targeted area, delivering controlled pulses of energy. Each pulse creates a tiny micro-injury in the skin, triggering the natural healing process while removing damaged tissue.

A treatment session can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the area being treated and the intensity of the resurfacing. After the procedure, the skin may feel warm and slightly tender, similar to a sunburn. A cooling treatment is often applied immediately afterward to soothe the skin.

Recovery and Aftercare

The initial healing process takes about 5 to 7 days, during which the skin will go through a cycle of redness, swelling, and peeling. Within the first few days, a fine crust or flaking may develop, which is a sign of the skin’s natural renewal process. Patients are advised not to pick or scratch the treated area to avoid scarring and to support proper healing.

During recovery, it’s crucial to:

  • Keep the skin moisturized with gentle healing ointments recommended by your provider.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily once the skin has healed.
  • Refrain from using harsh skincare products (such as exfoliants or retinoids) for at least two weeks post-treatment.
  • Stay hydrated and allow the skin to naturally shed dead cells, revealing fresh, new skin underneath.

Though the surface of the skin heals in about a week, collagen production continues beneath the surface for several months. This means the skin continues to improve over time, with full results becoming visible around 3 to 6 months post-treatment.

How AcuPulse Compares to Other Treatments

Compared to traditional CO₂ lasers, AcuPulse offers a safer and more efficient resurfacing experience with less downtime and fewer side effects. While a fully ablative laser removes the entire top layer of skin (leading to longer recovery), AcuPulse treats the skin fractionally, meaning healing occurs more quickly and discomfort is minimized.

When compared to microneedling or non-ablative laser treatments, AcuPulse provides much more dramatic results in a single session. While microneedling and non-ablative lasers require multiple treatments over time, AcuPulse can achieve significant wrinkle reduction, scar improvement, and skin tightening with just one to two sessions.

For patients with deeper wrinkles, acne scars, or severe sun damage, fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing is considered the gold standard in non-surgical skin rejuvenation.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for AcuPulse?

AcuPulse is best suited for individuals looking to:

  • Reduce moderate to severe wrinkles and fine lines
  • Improve skin elasticity and firmness
  • Fade acne scars or surgical scars
  • Correct uneven skin tone and sun damage
  • Minimize enlarged pores and rough texture

It is most effective for lighter to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-III), as darker skin tones may have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Patients with active acne, infections, or certain medical conditions should consult with a specialist before undergoing treatment.

Long-Lasting Results

One of the major advantages of AcuPulse is the long-term impact. While the skin will continue to age naturally, the improvements gained from fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing can last 2 years or more with proper skincare and sun protection. Many patients notice that their complexion remains smoother, firmer, and more radiant long after the treatment.

For those looking for a powerful anti-aging and skin resurfacing solution, AcuPulse offers a scientifically proven, effective method to restore youthful, healthy skin with lasting benefits.

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opus Treatments

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face contouring

Face contouring is a non-invasive treatment that can help you to reshape and redefine your facial features.

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body contouring & skin tightening

The laser's energy penetrates beneath the surface of the skin and encourages tissue remodeling at a cellular level

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eyelid lift

The procedure tightens and lifts the upper eyelids, reducing puffiness and droopy skin for a more refreshed and youthful appearance.

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skin laxity

Skin laxity is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin loses its elasticity or firmness, resulting in sagging and drooping of the skin.

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cellulite

Opus can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite by gently heating the area and breaking down fat cells, and stimulating collagen production to firm skin.

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stretch marks (striae)

Opus penetrates deep into the skin layers to stimulate collagen production and works to reduce the appearance of stretch marks