CO₂ laser resurfacing is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser to remove damaged outer layers of skin and stimulate new collagen production. By creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries, the treatment smooths wrinkles, softens acne scars, fades sun damage, and improves overall tone and texture. It’s considered one of the most effective options for resurfacing and renewing skin with long-lasting results. 

Fractional CO₂ laser treatment works by delivering tiny beams of carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser energy into the skin, creating microscopic tears while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This fractional approach allows the skin to heal faster while stimulating new collagen production in deeper layers. As a result, texture becomes smoother, scars and wrinkles soften, and overall tone and firmness improve. 

CO₂ laser resurfacing smooths fine lines and wrinkles, softens acne scars, reduces sun damage and dark spots, and improves overall skin tone and texture.  It also firms saggy skin and restores a more youthful, radiant appearance.

At Chapter, we use the advanced Tetra CO₂ laser, which offers more precision and customization than traditional CO₂ technology. With this fractional system, providers can tailor each treatment to your skin type and goals, delivering powerful resurfacing results with your comfort and quick recovery in mind. 

Before treatment, you’ll receive a skin assessment and be advised to avoid retinol and blood thinners for a short period. During the procedure, numbing cream is applied, and the advanced Tetra CO₂ laser is used to resurface the skin in about an hour. Afterward, it’s normal to experience redness, mild swelling, and flaking as your skin heals. As your skin builds new collagen, you’ll notice improvements in the first few weeks with the best results seen after 8–10 weeks. 

Recovery after CO₂ laser resurfacing usually takes about 7–10 days. Most guests experience redness, swelling, and peeling in the first few days, followed by temporary dryness and sensitivity as the skin renews. While many people feel comfortable returning to normal activities after a week, full healing and fading of redness can take several weeks, with skin improvements continuing for months as collagen rebuilds. 

Most guests start noticing improvements within the first few weeks as redness fades and fresh skin appears. The best results develop gradually over 8–10 weeks as new collagen forms, with continued improvements in skin texture, firmness, and tone for several months after treatment. 

You’ll notice improvements after just one CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment, but the number of sessions depends on your skin concerns and goals. Deep wrinkles, scars, or extensive sun damage may benefit from a series of treatments spaced several months apart. Your provider will recommend a personalized plan to achieve the best results. 

Results from CO₂ laser resurfacing typically last around 6–12 months depending on factors like skin type, age, and sun exposure. A healthy skincare routine and recommended maintenance or combination treatments can help extend and enhance your results. 

CO₂ fractional laser resurfacing is generally safe for lighter to medium skin tones and may not be recommended for very dark skin types due to a higher risk of pigmentation changes. A comprehensive skin assessment helps determine if you’re a good candidate and whether adjustments or alternative treatments are better for your goals. At Chapter, providers customize every treatment to maximize safety and results. 

Both CO₂ and Erbium lasers are ablative treatments that resurface the skin, but they differ in strength and recovery time. CO₂ laser penetrates deeper, making it highly effective for wrinkles, scars, and significant texture concerns, though it comes with more downtime. Erbium laser is gentler, with a shorter recovery, and is often used for mild to moderate lines and surface-level issues. 

Ablative laser resurfacing targets damage on and below the surface by removing top layers of skin while stimulating deeper collagen production. This delivers dramatic results but requires more downtime. Non-ablative laser resurfacing works beneath the surface without removing skin, leading to milder improvements with little to no downtime. CO₂ fractional laser is an ablative treatment, known for its effectiveness in treating wrinkles, scars, and significant texture concerns. 

Yes, CO₂ laser resurfacing can often be paired with other treatments to enhance results. We recommend a Hydraglow Facial beforehand to prep the skin or topical exosome treatment afterward to support faster healing. Your provider may also recommend combining CO₂ laser with injectables like Botox and filler, facials, or other skin treatments as part of a customized plan for your goals. 

Most guests describe CO₂ laser resurfacing as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. A numbing cream is applied before treatment, which helps minimize sensation, though you may still feel warmth or a stinging, sunburn-like feeling during the procedure. Any discomfort usually subsides quickly, and post-care products help soothe the skin as it heals.