Dermabrasion using CO2 dry ice.

Background: The cosmetic dermatologic surgeon can improve facial scars by using a variety of techniques. Chemical peels, lasers, and dermabrasion are among the most common modalities used. In recent years, laser resurfacing has enjoyed great popularity; however, there is still a role for the time-honored and effective technique of dermabrasion. The recent withdrawal of Freon from the market has made dermabrasion more difficult.

Objective: To introduce a novel technique of using solid carbon dioxide (CO2) to freeze the skin before dermabrasion.

Method: Twenty-five consecutive patients with facial acne scars underwent a combination of procedures including chemical peeling and CO2 laser resurfacing, followed by freeze-dermabrasion. Compressed CO2 was then used to make a solid ball of dry ice. The ice was used to freeze the skin prior to dermabrasion. After the application of the dry ice ball to the skin for about 4 seconds, the scares were dermabraded with the large mushroom wheel. As the tissue defrosted, the operator started at the outer edge of the freeze and planed into the center. This procedure was repeated until the desired improvement was achieved.

Results: With dry ice, a good skin turgor was achieved. This provided a good foundation for the sanding of the acne scars. The patients were pleased with the results and complications were minimal.

Conclusion: "Home-made" dry ice works as well as Freon in providing skin turgor for dermabrasion. CO2 dry ice has the added benefits of being inexpensive and environmentally friendly.