CO2 Laser skin resurfacing is a powerful non-invasive skin rejuvenating treatment that removes damaged skin layers and stimulates collagen production, resulting in smoother, radiant, and youthful-looking skin. 

It helps rejuvenate skin texture on the face and body, as well as to treat visible signs of ageing, facial skin laxity, acne scars, uneven skin tone, and sun damage. 

CO2 laser resurfacing also plays a crucial role in managing certain types of skin cancer.

Read on to discover more about the benefits of this fantastic treatment.

How CO2 Laser Resurfacing Works

This minimally invasive procedure uses high-energy lasers to precisely target the treatment area with pulsed light, removing the top layer of skin in a process called ablation.

CO2 laser treatment creates micro-injuries in the skin tissues, stimulating the body’s healing process and increasing collagen production, as well as the speed of skin cell renewal.

As the micro injuries heal, the skin surface is remodelled and smoothed. The damaged skin layers are sloughed off to reveal fresh, firmer, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

The benefits of CO2 laser treatment vs other forms of laser resurfacing

Laser treatment is often used for facial rejuvenation and to improve the appearance of the skin elsewhere on the body. 

However, CO2 laser resurfacing is the gold standard in ablative laser treatment, and it offers significant advantages over many other forms of laser treatment.

In Carbon dioxide laser therapy, the laser penetrates deeper into the epidermis than other types of lasers. This means that fewer treatments are required to achieve the same skin renewal results.

Additionally, the treatment area can be targeted with extreme precision, resulting in less damage to surrounding tissues and a quicker recovery time.

Skin issues treated with carbon dioxide ablative laser resurfacing

Ablative skin resurfacing using a carbon dioxide laser is used to treat a number of skin concerns, including;

Acne scars

This treatment remodels the upper layer of the skin, making it smoother and reducing the appearance and depth of acne pitting.

Visible signs of ageing

The surge of fresh collagen produced by the laser’s action smooths and firms the skin, restoring a youthful appearance and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Uneven skin tone, dull complexion and skin damage

The laser’s ability to break down the dull, damaged surface layer of the skin enables it to remove dull, hardened old skin cells and surface lesions, revealing fresh skin cells beneath.

You may see some improvement in your skin after your treatment, but the results will continue to develop as collagen remains high for the six months.

Areas that benefit from laser skin resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing is not just suitable for facial rejuvenation; it can also be used to improve skin quality on the neck, decolletage and hands.

Furthermore, it is an effective treatment for improving the appearance of scars anywhere on the body, including surgical and caesarean scars.

The carbon dioxide laser treatment process

The laser treatment is usually performed using a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. In some circumstances, a general anaesthetic is used, and your practitioner will discuss this at your consultation.

The CO2 laser resurfacing treatment is then performed, using a high-energy laser beam. The treatment session typically lasts around 60 to 90 minutes.

Post-Treatment Care for the skin

After CO2 laser resurfacing, your skin may appear pink and feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn.

It is essential to treat your skin gently to avoid further irritation. We recommend that you limit sun exposure, use gentle skincare products, and follow the detailed aftercare instructions provided upon your departure from the clinic.

Next steps

Before committing to treatment, you will have a consultation with one of our cosmetic doctors to discuss your skin concerns and determine whether this treatment will provide the skin rejuvenation you desire. It is essential to be in good health before any treatment, and your practitioner will take a complete medical history and ask about any medications you may be taking.

You can book your consultation by phoning 01904 675 222 or emailing us at [email protected]