CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
CO₂ laser resurfacing is an advanced treatment that uses a fractional carbon dioxide laser to remove damaged layers of skin with extreme precision. The laser energy stimulates new collagen growth, leading to smoother, firmer, and healthier-looking skin. It is one of the most effective treatments for skin ageing, scarring, and sun damage, and can also treat certain medical conditions.
How It Works
Consultation – Your Dermatologist assesses your skin, medical history, and treatment goals
Preparation – Anaesthetic cream, local anaesthetic, or sedation may be used depending on the depth of treatment
Laser Treatment – The CO₂ laser removes tiny columns of skin while leaving surrounding skin intact, helping healing and collagen stimulation
Healing Phase – New skin regenerates over the following days to weeks, with redness and peeling common
Results – Skin becomes smoother, firmer, and more even-toned as collagen continues to remodel over the next 3–6 months
Indications for CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
Wrinkles & Fine Lines – Smooths lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead; tightens skin for a fresher, younger appearance
Sun Damage & Ageing Skin – Improves uneven pigmentation, sun spots, and rough skin texture; stimulates collagen to restore firmness
Acne Scarring – Softens deep acne scars; smooths pitted and uneven skin
Surgical or Injury Scars – Reduces raised, thickened, or irregular scars; blends scars into surrounding skin more naturally
Rhinophyma (thickened skin of the nose due to severe rosacea) – Precisely reshapes and reduces excess tissue; restores normal nasal contour and appearance
Xanthelasma (cholesterol deposits around the eyes) – Safely vaporises cholesterol plaques; provides a smooth cosmetic result without major surgery
Precancerous Sun Spots (Actinic Keratoses) – Removes patches of precancerous change in heavily sun-damaged skin; can reduce future skin cancer risk
What to Expect
Downtime – Ranges from a few days (light resurfacing) to 1–2 weeks (deep resurfacing)
Aftercare – Careful wound care and sun protection are essential
Results – Long-lasting improvement in wrinkles, scars, rhinophyma, and xanthelasma
Repeat treatments – Sometimes required for deep scarring or advanced ageing
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most patients experience some heat or stinging during the procedure. Anaesthetic creams, local anaesthetic, or sedation can be used to keep you comfortable.
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Superficial treatments may heal within 4–5 days, while deeper resurfacing can take up to 2 weeks. Redness may persist longer but gradually fades.
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Improvements in scars and xanthelasma are permanent. For ageing and sun damage, results are long-lasting but the natural ageing process continues, so future touch-ups may be beneficial.
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By removing precancerous sun spots and heavily damaged skin, CO2 laser can lower the risk of developing new skin cancers in treated areas.
Request a Consultation
We know skin, and want you to be comfortable in yours. Let’s discuss your concerns and how to reclaim health and confidence.