There’s been a growing buzz in aesthetics and dermatology about a so-called “two-step approach” to treating keloid scars. This involves using Plexr plasma followed by an ablative CO2 laser, and some clinics are calling it a breakthrough, even claiming it delivers “excellent cosmetic outcomes” and is superior to other treatments.
At Rejuvence Clinic, we’re always open to new ideas. But we believe in putting every treatment under clinical scrutiny before adopting it. As a CQC-registered clinic run by GMC-registered doctors, we’re committed to evidence, not hype.
That’s why we think it’s important to take a closer look at this approach and explain how it fits (or doesn’t) within the broader world of keloid scar care.
What Is the Plexr + CO2 Laser Combination?
The “two-step” technique combines two devices. First, Plexr Plasma, a soft surgery tool that delivers controlled micro-trauma to the skin using ionised gas. This helps stimulate skin regeneration at a superficial level.
Then comes the CO2 fractional laser, which goes a bit deeper, targeting the dermis to remodel collagen, reduce pigmentation, and smooth the skin’s surface.
The idea behind combining them is to enhance results: Plexr primes the area, and the CO2 laser follows up with deeper tissue remodelling.
In theory, this should reduce the thickness, texture, and colour differences associated with some types of scars, including early-stage keloids.
What Does the Research Actually Say?
There’s some emerging research suggesting this combination can help, but only in specific cases. For example, a 2021 study by Abdallah et al. found improvements in scar texture and pigmentation when Plexr and CO2 lasers were used on mild hypertrophic scars. Similarly, Vescio et al. (2022) saw high satisfaction levels in patients with post-surgical scarring treated with this method.
Kim et al. (2023) also reported that when used alongside steroid injections, this combination helped improve the appearance of early-stage keloids, with a lower chance of the scar coming back.
However, it’s important to note that most of these results came from small or observational studies, and often the patients had lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III).
Evidence Limitations
In short, this approach can work well, but mainly for smaller, newer scars in lighter skin tones and in areas like the face or neck where cosmetic outcome is especially important.
For larger, longstanding, or recurrent keloids, the results are much less promising. There’s also a higher risk of pigmentation issues (PIH), particularly for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), which limits its wider use.
How Does This Compare to Rejuvence’s Approach?
At Rejuvence, we don’t rely on one or two tools. We’ve spent years developing a comprehensive treatment protocol that tackles keloid scars from every possible angle, and that’s because keloids are complex, and no single treatment works for everyone.
Steroid and 5-FU Injections
We regularly use steroid injections (triamcinolone) and 5-FU to calm fibroblast activity and flatten active scars. For larger, raised keloids, especially around the ears or scalp, we use Cryoshape cryotherapy and surgical excision, always followed by measures to reduce recurrence.
Advanced Laser Technology
We also have some of the most advanced laser technology available. Our Er:YAG laser (Aerolase) is ideal for resurfacing and pigmentation control, especially in darker skin types.
Our Nd:YAG laser targets vascularity and reduces redness and thickness. And when redness or discolouration develops after treatment, our Sciton BBL device works wonders in calming that down, particularly in lighter skin tones.
Radiofrequency Microneedling
For deeper scar remodelling, we use Sylfirm X, a radiofrequency microneedling system that’s both powerful and safe for all skin types. This can help transform stubborn scars that haven’t responded to other methods.
Where Does Plexr + CO2 Fit In Our System?
While the Plexr and CO2 laser combination may sound exciting, it’s clear that it works best as a refinement tool rather than a first-line solution. In our opinion, it might have value as a cosmetic add-on after the main scar treatments have done their job, particularly for patients with lighter skin, flat keloids, or facial scars where cosmetic finish matters.
But this is a niche treatment for a niche group of patients. It doesn’t replace the need for cryotherapy, surgical excision, steroid injections, or advanced lasers like Sylfirm X, BBL, or Aerolase.
For most patients, especially those with darker skin tones or more aggressive scars, this approach simply doesn’t go deep enough.
Why Rejuvence Offers Paid Consultations
We understand that some clinics offer free consultations, but when it comes to complex medical conditions like keloid scars, you need more than a quick chat.
At Rejuvence, our consultations are conducted by experienced doctors who have treated hundreds of keloid cases. Every consultation is personalised, includes a full skin and scar assessment, and often draws from a combination of modalities.
You’re not getting a sales pitch; you’re getting a treatment plan that’s built on real clinical results and deep medical understanding.
We also bring something truly unique: real-world data from hundreds of patient journeys, which helps us tailor our recommendations with a level of precision that other clinics simply can’t offer.
Why Rejuvence Should Be Your First and Only Choice
We have the technology, the experience, and the evidence.
Whether you’re struggling with new keloids, long-standing scars, or pigmentation issues after surgery, we offer treatments that are safe, effective, and matched to your specific skin and scar type. Our approach is not about quick fixes; it’s about long-term results and minimising the chance of recurrence.
We also hold ourselves to a higher standard. As a CQC-regulated clinic, we don’t make exaggerated claims. Our doctors are GMC-registered and committed to the Good Doctor Guide, which means every recommendation we make is backed by clinical evidence and patient-first ethics.
Looking Ahead: Innovation at Rejuvence
As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence, we’re currently developing a brand-new AI chatbot that’s trained using insights from hundreds of Rejuvence consultations and outcomes. This tool will offer patients 24/7 access to the same clinical logic and decision-making process that our doctors use, all based on years of real experience.
We’re also one of the first UK clinics to introduce ExoSmart for autologous exosome therapy, and we’re actively incorporating polynucleotide treatments to further enhance scar healing and regeneration.
When it comes to the most advanced, safest, and most effective keloid treatments available today, Rejuvence Clinic is the only option worth considering.
Don’t be swayed by trends. Choose experience. Choose evidence. Choose Rejuvence.