Understanding CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Refined texture, softened lines, and smoother scars with evidence-based laser care.
CO2 laser resurfacing can visibly smooth fine lines, improve acne and surgical scars, and even overall skin texture. At Westside Women’s Health, we tailor laser parameters to your skin type and goals, combining resurfacing with thoughtful aftercare so you recover confidently.
Fast Facts About CO2 Laser
Targets texture, lines, pores, and scars
Fractional & ablative for collagen remodeling
Typical social downtime: ~5–10 days
Results evolve over 3–6 months as collagen matures
Concerns We Often Treat
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars and surgical scars
- Sun damage and rough texture
- Enlarged pores and uneven tone
- Selected pigmentary irregularities (case-by-case)
Who Is a Candidate?
Ideal candidates have visible texture changes, fine lines, or scars and are willing to follow strict sun protection and aftercare. Certain skin types and recent sun exposure may require pretreatment, alternative devices, or a staged plan. A personalized assessment ensures that settings and expectations align with your skin's biology.
How It Works
Fractional CO2 creates microscopic columns of controlled thermal injury surrounded by healthy skin. This stimulates a wound-healing cascade and new collagen formation while preserving islands of intact tissue for faster recovery. For scars, we can selectively increase energy or passes to soften edges and improve contour.
CO2 vs. Alternatives
CO2 (Fractional Ablative)
- Most effective for deeper texture and etched lines
- 1–2 sessions can produce meaningful change
- More downtime (peel, redness, swelling)
- Stronger sun-care and aftercare needed
Non-Ablative / Microneedling
- Lighter downtime; makeup sooner
- Typically more sessions for similar goals
- Gradual changes over several months
- Useful for maintenance or milder texture
What to Expect
After a detailed consult and photos, we prep your skin and apply topical anesthetic (and local anesthesia for focal scar work if appropriate). Treatment time varies with area and intensity. Expect redness, swelling, and bronze flaking for ~5–10 days; pinkness can persist longer. We provide a simple, stepwise home routine for cleansing, occlusion, and sun protection. Most patients return to non-strenuous work within a week, with progressive refinement for months as collagen remodels.
Before Your Visit
- ✓Avoid tanning and self-tanners for 2–4 weeks
- ✓Pause retinoids/strong acids 5–7 days pre-treatment
- ✓Tell us about prior keloids, pigment changes, or isotretinoin
- ✓Let us know if you get cold sores (antiviral may be advised)
- ✓Plan for ~5–10 days of reduced social activities
Frequently Asked Questions
1How many sessions will I need?
For etched lines or scars, many patients see visible change after 1 session; deeper concerns may benefit from 2–3 staged sessions. Your plan is personalized to balance improvement and downtime.
2Does it hurt?
Topical anesthetic is standard; localized numbing or cooling can be added for scar passes. You may feel heat or a prickling sensation. Discomfort is typically well managed during and after the procedure.
3What is the downtime?
Expect redness, swelling, and flaking for ~5–10 days depending on intensity and area. Pinkness can last longer but is usually coverable with makeup once the surface has re-epithelialized.
4Is it safe for my skin tone?
Safety depends on your baseline pigmentation, history of hyperpigmentation, and settings used. We may recommend pretreatment, conservative parameters, or alternative technologies to reduce risk.
5When will I see results?
Early smoothing can appear as soon as the skin heals, with continued improvement over 3–6 months as collagen remodels. Good sun habits help preserve outcomes.
6What are the risks?
Temporary redness, swelling, crusting, and bronzing are expected. Less common risks include infection, acne flares, prolonged redness, pigment shifts, or scarring. Careful screening and aftercare minimize these risks.
Smooth, Refine, and Renew
If you're considering resurfacing or scar revision, we'll design a plan that fits your skin, schedule, and goals.
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