CO2 laser resurfacing: what does it do?
Ever wondered what happens when your skin gets a second chance?
CO2 laser resurfacing is a precision skin-renewal procedure that uses focused light energy to remove very thin layers of damaged tissue. The treatment stimulates fresh collagen, tightens existing collagen fibres and triggers rapid cell turnover. The result is smoother, firmer and more even-toned skin without the need for surgical lifting.
How the technology works
A medical-grade carbon-dioxide beam is fractionated into thousands of microscopic columns. Each column vaporises a pinpoint of surface skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact. These intact areas act as healing reservoirs, so recovery is faster than with old full-field lasers.
Concerns about the treatment targets
- Dynamic and static wrinkles around eyes, mouth and forehead
- Acne scars, chicken-pox pits and surgical marks
- Sun-induced pigmentation and mottled tone
- Coarse texture and enlarged pores
- Early skin laxity on face, neck and décolleté
What to expect on treatment day
- Topical anaesthetic or local infiltration keeps you comfortable.
- The practitioner makes one or more controlled passes, adjusting depth for thicker or thinner skin zones.
- A cooling serum or occlusive balm is applied before you leave the clinic.
Recovery timeline
- First 24 hours: redness, warmth and mild oozing
- Days 2-5: bronze film and micro-peeling as new skin pushes up
- Days 6-10: pinkness fades to a light flush that makeup can cover
Most patients return to office work within a week while collagen remodelling continues for up to six months.
Candidacy and safety
Ideal candidates have fair to medium skin tones, realistic expectations, and are willing to follow strict aftercare, including high-factor sun protection. Clients with active acne, uncontrolled melasma or recent isotretinoin use may need alternative therapies or pre-treatment plans.
Benefits over other resurfacing options
- Greater collagen stimulation than chemical peels or microneedling
- One session can equal several lighter treatments
- Adjustable depth allows customised results for each facial zone
For a detailed consultation, treatment photos and pricing, explore the clinic’s fractional co2 laser service and decide if this advanced resurfacing method matches your skin goals.