CO₂ (carbon dioxide) lasers emit a wavelength that is strongly absorbed by water—the primary component of living tissue. Treatments can be delivered in a fractional pattern, where only a grid of tiny micro-columns is treated, sparing surrounding tissue for quicker healing. This controlled injury triggers several healing responses: old collagen fibers are replaced, new elastin is formed, and fresh epidermal cells rise to the surface, rejuvenating the health and appearance of the treated areas.
CO₂ laser skin resurfacing is ideal for achieving a visibly smoother texture, more even tone, and a noticeably firmer complexion. Patients bothered by static wrinkles, deep etched-in lines around the eyes or mouth, sun damage, rough skin texture, or acne scarring tend to see the most dramatic improvements from CO₂ laser treatments. Because CO₂ lasers are ablative (they remove tissue), it is critical to screen for factors that increase the risk of complications, such as active acne, certain medications, connective-tissue disorders, a history of cold sores, suntanning, or a history of poor wound healing. Individuals with deeper skin tones are not excluded but must be treated cautiously to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Procedure Overview
Vectra imaging is performed prior to treatment and consent forms are reviewed and signed. For comfort, oral pain medication may be administered, and a topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area for approximately one hour. Before the laser is activated, protective eye shields are carefully placed.
During the procedure, the handpiece moves methodically across the skin, creating a warm, tingling sensation accompanied by a soft snapping sound. Once the laser application is complete, a thick layer of Vaseline is applied to support healing. Detailed after-care instructions are reviewed in full and provided to the patient before they leave the clinic.
Expect redness, pinpoint oozing, and a “bronzed” appearance as the treated layer dries and sheds. A one-week follow-up appointment is scheduled to assess healing. Skincare during recovery includes a gentle hydrating cleanser and moisturizer, physical SPF and healing camouflage makeup, color-matched to minimize the appearance of redness over the following six weeks. The treated skin is sensitive to sun exposure for 6 weeks, , so diligent sun protection is essential to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
An appropriately aggressive CO₂ resurfacing session can erase years of accumulated damage while stimulating collagen remodeling for up to six months following the procedure. As new collagen forms and skin renewal progresses, patients typically notice softer deep wrinkles and fine lines, markedly smoother texture, and improved firmness along the lower cheeks and jawline.
Pore visibility appears diminished, irregular pigmentation becomes more even, and the overall complexion looks clearer and brighter. When paired with proper skincare — including daily SPF, healthy lifestyle habits, and sun avoidance — results can last for years.
These results may endure for years when paired with proper skincare including SPF, healthy lifestyle, diet and sun avoidance.
Interested in learning whether CO₂ laser resurfacing is right for you? Explore treatment details and consultation information here.
