CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

Treatment type: Laser skin resurfacing

Common concerns treated: Acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, uneven skin texture

Procedure length: Typically 30–90 minutes, depending on the treatment area and depth

Anaesthetic: Usually topical numbing cream, sometimes local anaesthetic or sedation for deeper treatments

Recovery time: 5–14 days for initial healing, depending on treatment depth and whether fractional or fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is performed

Results visible: Initial improvement may be visible within 1–2 weeks, with continued collagen production and skin improvement over 3–6 months

CO2 laser treatment is a medical skin resurfacing procedure that uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to remove damaged outer layers of skin while stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers. The laser creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, allowing new, healthier skin to regenerate during the healing process. Because the CO2 laser penetrates deeper than many other laser treatments, it is commonly used to improve deep wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, and uneven skin texture.

CO2 laser resurfacing is typically performed as a day procedure in a clinic setting, meaning patients can return home shortly after treatment. The procedure itself typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the treatment area and whether fractional or fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is performed.

CO2 laser treatments are usually performed using either fractional CO2 laser technology or fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing. Both methods use a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to remove damaged skin and stimulate collagen production, but they differ in how much skin is treated at one time and how long the recovery takes. Fractional CO2 lasers treat the skin in microscopic columns, leaving surrounding skin intact to speed up healing. Fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing removes the entire surface layer of the skin in the treated area, which can produce more dramatic results but usually requires a longer recovery period.

CO2 laser skin resurfacing can treat a wide range of skin concerns by removing damaged skin cells and stimulating new collagen production. Because the laser penetrates deeper layers of the skin, it is commonly used to improve acne scars, reduce wrinkles, tighten loose or crepey skin, and smooth uneven skin texture. Many patients also choose CO2 laser treatment to improve enlarged pores, sun damage, pigmentation issues, and surgical scars.

Common skin concerns treated with CO2 laser include:

• Acne scars and surgical scars
• Fine lines and deep wrinkles
• Sun damage and uneven skin tone
• Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
• Loose or crepey skin
• Pigmentation and age spots

CO2 laser resurfacing is sometimes used to improve fine lines and skin texture around the eyes, particularly when patients are concerned about under eye wrinkles or crepey skin.

Because the skin around the eyes is delicate, experienced practitioners carefully adjust laser settings and treatment depth when performing CO2 laser treatment near the under eye area. In many cases, fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is used to stimulate collagen production while minimising recovery time.

During consultation, the practitioner will assess whether CO2 laser treatment for under eye wrinkles is suitable for the patient’s skin type and concerns, or whether alternative treatments may be more appropriate.

CO2 laser resurfacing is widely used to improve acne scars, particularly when scarring affects the texture and surface of the skin. By removing damaged outer layers of skin and stimulating new collagen production, CO2 laser treatment for acne scars can help smooth uneven skin texture and reduce the appearance of deeper scars.

The treatment is often recommended for patients with atrophic acne scars, including boxcar scars, rolling scars, and other types of depressed scarring. During consultation, practitioners assess the depth of scarring and determine whether fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is the most appropriate treatment option.

Because acne scarring varies between patients, treatment settings and recovery time can differ depending on the severity of the scarring and the treatment depth used.

CO2 laser skin resurfacing can produce significant improvements in skin texture and tone. Before treatment, patients often have concerns such as acne scars, deep wrinkles, sun damage, or uneven skin texture. After the skin heals, many patients notice smoother skin, softer lines, improved pore appearance, and a more even complexion. The results of CO2 laser resurfacing continue to improve over several months as new collagen forms beneath the skin.

Results vary depending on the depth of the treatment, the condition being treated, and the patient’s skin type. Fractional CO2 laser treatments typically produce gradual improvements with shorter downtime, while fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing can deliver more dramatic before and after results but usually requires a longer recovery period.

Common improvements seen in CO2 laser before and after results include:

• Smoother skin texture
• Reduced acne scars
• Softer wrinkles and fine lines
• Smaller appearing pores
• More even skin tone

The cost of CO2 laser treatment can vary depending on the clinic, the doctor’s experience, the area being treated, and whether fractional or fully ablative laser technology is used. In the UK, CO2 laser resurfacing typically costs between £800 and £3,500 per session. Smaller areas such as under-eyes or acne scars may cost less, while full face CO2 laser resurfacing performed by an experienced aesthetic doctor can be more expensive.

Prices may also vary depending on the depth of treatment required and the number of sessions recommended. Some patients need only one deeper resurfacing treatment, while others may benefit from a series of lighter fractional CO2 laser sessions to gradually improve skin texture, acne scars, or wrinkles.

Factors that influence CO2 laser cost include:

• Treatment area (full face, under eyes, neck, or scars)
• Fractional vs fully ablative CO2 laser treatment
• Clinic location and doctor expertise
• Number of sessions required
• Aftercare and follow-up appointments

When choosing a clinic, it is important to consider both cost and medical expertise, as CO2 laser resurfacing is an advanced medical treatment that should always be performed by experienced practitioners.

Recovery after CO2 laser resurfacing depends on the depth of treatment and whether fractional or fully ablative laser technology is used. Fractional CO2 laser treatments usually involve several days of redness and mild swelling, while fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing may require a longer healing period. During recovery, the skin regenerates new cells and collagen, gradually improving skin texture and tone.

In the first few days after treatment, patients commonly experience redness, peeling, swelling, and a warm sensation similar to sunburn. Doctors typically recommend gentle skincare, strict sun protection, and avoiding direct sun exposure while the skin heals. Using a high-SPF sunscreen is essential to protect the newly treated skin.

Typical CO2 laser recovery timeline:

• Day 1–3: Redness, swelling, and a warm sunburn-like sensation
• Day 3–7: Peeling and skin renewal begins
• Week 1–2: Most surface healing occurs and redness gradually fades
• Week 3–6: Skin continues to improve as collagen production increases.

Proper aftercare is important to support healing and reduce the risk of complications after CO2 laser resurfacing. During the recovery period, the skin is more sensitive and requires gentle care.

Doctors commonly recommend the following aftercare guidelines:

• Avoid direct sun exposure and use a high-SPF sunscreen once the skin has healed
• Use gentle cleansers and moisturisers recommended by your practitioner
• Avoid harsh skincare products such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, or scrubs during early healing
• Avoid excessive heat exposure such as saunas, hot baths or intense exercise during the early recovery period, as heat can increase redness and swelling
• Do not pick or peel the skin while it is recovering
• Follow your practitioner’s instructions regarding skincare and follow-up appointments

Most patients are able to gradually return to their normal skincare routine once the skin has fully healed.

CO2 laser resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced medical professional, but like any skin procedure it carries some risks and side effects. Most patients experience temporary redness, swelling, and skin peeling during the healing period. These effects are a normal part of the skin’s regeneration process and typically improve as the skin heals.

Less common side effects can include infection, prolonged redness, changes in skin pigmentation, or delayed healing. The risk of complications is higher when deeper fully ablative CO2 laser treatments are used, which is why proper aftercare and following your doctor’s instructions are essential during recovery.

Patients with darker or olive skin tones may have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following CO2 laser treatment. For this reason, experienced practitioners carefully assess skin type and may recommend fractional CO2 laser treatments or alternative resurfacing options to reduce the risk of pigmentation changes.

Skin type is often assessed using the Fitzpatrick skin type scale, which classifies skin from type I (very fair) to type VI (very dark). CO2 laser resurfacing is most commonly recommended for lighter skin types, while patients with darker skin types require careful assessment and treatment planning to reduce the risk of pigmentation changes.

Possible CO2 laser side effects include:

• Redness and swelling
• Peeling or crusting during healing
• Temporary skin sensitivity or irritation
• Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
• Infection (rare)
• Scarring (very rare when performed correctly)

Choosing an experienced medical practitioner significantly reduces the risk of complications and helps ensure the safest possible outcome.

CO2 laser resurfacing is an advanced medical treatment that requires skill and experience to perform safely and effectively. Choosing the right clinic is important to achieve good results while minimising risks. Patients should always look for experienced practitioners who regularly perform laser resurfacing procedures and understand different skin types and treatment depths.

During a consultation, a qualified practitioner should assess your skin condition, discuss your goals, and explain whether fractional or fully ablative CO2 laser treatment is most suitable. A personalised treatment plan and clear explanation of recovery time, costs, and potential risks are important parts of a professional consultation.

When choosing a CO2 laser clinic, consider:

• The practitioner’s experience performing CO2 laser resurfacing
• Whether the clinic performs a proper skin consultation
• The type of CO2 laser technology used
• Before-and-after photos of previous patients
• Clear guidance on recovery, risks, and aftercare
• Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration — confirms the clinic meets fundamental health and safety standards
• Professional body membership such as the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP), General Medical Council (GMC) for doctor-led clinics, or British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN) for nurse-led clinics

Choosing an experienced clinic ensures safer treatment and better long-term results from CO2 laser resurfacing.

You can verify a practitioner’s credentials through the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) or Save Face — both are UK accredited registers of aesthetic practitioners. For doctor-led clinics, you can check GMC registration directly on the GMC website.

Patients looking for CO2 laser resurfacing can find experienced clinics in several major UK cities. Explore clinics offering CO2 laser treatments in the locations below.

Patients seeking treatment in the capital can explore CO2 laser clinics in London where experienced practitioners offer advanced laser resurfacing treatments.

• CO2 Laser Clinics in London
• CO2 Laser Clinics in Manchester
• CO2 Laser Clinics in Birmingham

CO2 laser resurfacing is suitable for patients who want to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, treat acne scars, or address sun damage. The treatment is recommended for individuals with fair to medium skin tones, although individuals with darker skin types may still be treated following careful assessment by an experienced practitioner.

A consultation with an experienced practitioner is important to determine whether CO2 laser treatment is appropriate. During the consultation, the practitioner will assess skin type, discuss medical history, and evaluate the severity of skin concerns such as acne scarring, wrinkles, or pigmentation.

Patients with active skin infections, certain medical conditions, or a history of abnormal scarring may not be suitable candidates for CO2 laser resurfacing. A qualified practitioner can advise on the safest treatment options.