CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
Discover the Beauty of Renewal with CO₂ Laser Resurfacing. Achieve natural-looking results with no downtime.
What is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO₂ (carbon dioxide) laser resurfacing is an ablative laser treatment: it removes (vaporizes) the outermost layers of skin (epidermis) and heats the underlying layer (dermis) to stimulate collagen production.
There is also a fractional CO₂ laser, which treats only a fraction of the skin surface in a grid-pattern of micro-columns, leaving untreated skin in between. This speeds healing and reduces downtime.
Benefits of CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
- Reduces fine lines and deep wrinkles
- Improves acne scars and surgical scars
- Tightens sagging skin
- Enhances skin tone and texture
- Minimizes sun damage and pigmentation
- Shrinks enlarged pores
- Boosts collagen production for long-term skin renewal
How CO₂ Laser Resurfacing Works?
The CO₂ laser uses focused beams of light to create microscopic channels in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response. As new collagen forms and fresh skin cells regenerate, damaged outer layers are replaced with healthier, smoother skin. This process tightens the skin and significantly improves texture and tone over time.
Because the treatment penetrates deeply, CO₂ Laser Resurfacing delivers more dramatic and longer-lasting results compared to superficial laser treatments.
What Conditions It Treats?
CO₂ laser treatment is used for:
- Wrinkles, fine and deep lines (e.g., around eyes, mouth, forehead).
- Sun damage, pigmentation issues, and age spots.
- Acne scars, surgical scars, traumatic scars.
- Skin texture irregularities, enlarged pores.
- Certain benign skin growths (e.g., warts) and birthmarks.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before the procedure, a thorough skin evaluation is performed to customize the treatment. A topical numbing agent or local anesthesia is applied for comfort. The laser session typically lasts 30–90 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
Following the procedure, redness, swelling, and peeling are expected as the skin heals and regenerates. Most patients begin to see visible improvement within 1–2 weeks, with continued results developing over several months as collagen rebuilds.
Aftercare & Recovery
- Immediately post-treatment: non-stick dressings, ointments to keep skin moist, and possibly antibiotic ointment. Clean the area several times a day with a saline or dilute solution.
- Discomfort expected: rawness, swelling, redness, peeling, similar to a strong sunburn.
- Downtime: depends on how aggressive/deep the treatment; typical full healing (to more or less normal appearance) takes about 5-14 days for fractional or milder settings; full ablative/stronger settings may take 10-21 days to heal externally.
- Redness/pinkness can linger for weeks to months (especially in certain skin types) as collagen remodeling continues.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for CO₂ Laser Resurfacing treatment?
An ideal candidate for CO₂ Laser Resurfacing is someone looking for significant, long-lasting skin rejuvenation and improvement in overall skin quality. This treatment is best suited for individuals who:
- Have moderate to deep wrinkles or fine lines
- Struggle with acne scars, surgical scars, or uneven skin texture
- Experience sun damage, age spots, or pigmentation irregularities
- Have enlarged pores or dull, rough skin
- Notice skin laxity and loss of firmness due to aging
- Are in good overall health with realistic expectations
- Want dramatic results that cannot be achieved with mild laser or facial treatments
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing is most effective for patients with light to medium skin tones, as deeper skin tones may have a higher risk of post-treatment pigmentation changes. Individuals who are not pregnant, do not have active skin infections, and are not prone to abnormal scarring (such as keloids) are generally better candidates.
Coming Soon
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing is launching soon. Stay tuned or contact us for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CO₂ Laser Resurfacing painful?
The procedure is generally well-tolerated. A topical numbing cream or anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort during treatment.
How many sessions are needed?
Most patients achieve optimal results with a single session. In some cases, additional treatments may be recommended for enhanced outcomes.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing typically takes 7–14 days. Full collagen remodeling and skin improvement continue over the next 3–6 months.
When will I see results?
Visible improvements appear within the first few weeks after healing, with continued skin tightening and texture improvement over time.
Are the results permanent?
While natural aging continues, the results are long-lasting. Many patients enjoy benefits for several years with proper skincare and sun protection.
Is CO₂ Laser Resurfacing safe?
Yes, when performed by trained medical professionals. A personalized assessment ensures safety and optimal results.
Can CO₂ Laser Resurfacing be combined with other treatments?
Yes. It can be combined with injectables, PRP, or other aesthetic treatments for enhanced rejuvenation, as recommended by your provider.