CO2 Laser Treatments Explained: How They Revitalise and Transform Your Skin.

When it comes to achieving smoother, younger-looking skin, CO2 laser treatments have become one of the most trusted and effective solutions available. Often referred to as the “gold standard” in skin rejuvenation, this advanced treatment targets a wide range of skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation and scars.

Our clinic has been around for over 30 years and has pioneered the development of multiple laser treatments as well as training a new generation laser specialists including many plastic surgeons. One of our most successful treatments has been skin rejuvenation with our CO2 laser! In this article, we will help you to understand what exactly is CO2 laser resurfacing, what it’s good for, and things to consider if you have been thinking about having this treatment.

What is CO2 Laser Treatment?

CO2 laser resurfacing is a state-of-the-art procedure designed to refresh and restore your skin quality. By using concentrated beams of laser light, this fractional laser treatment removes the top layer of damaged skin cells layer, while stimulating collagen production deep below the surface. This dual-action approach not only renews the skin on the surface but also tightens it, giving you a rejuvenated and glowing appearance.
This laser treatment is also highly versatile, effectively addressing common skin concerns like wrinkles, scars, and uneven texture, and is one of the best ways of reversing the signs of ageing.

How can CO2 laser reverse the signs of ageing?

Ask we age, our skin stops regenerating and repairing in the way it did when we were younger. This leads to thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity. These changes are exacerbated by outside factors in lifestyle and choices we make, with things like diet, smoking and drinking. In addition, excessive ultraviolet sun exposure can have a huge effect on our skin’s natural ageing process.

We can only understand the root cause of these skin changes by going down to the level of the molecules! From our mid 20’s onwards, our skin starts to lose collagen and elastin, and this plays a major role in the ageing process. Since collagen normally keeps your skin firm and plump, a reduction in this collagen can lead to visible changes like fine lines, wrinkles, thinning of skin but also non-visible changes like stiffness in joints. For women, the menopause also has a further massive effect on skin quality with lower oestrogen levels leading to lower levels of collagen.

We offer many simple treatments to help reverse this change. Taking collagen supplements alongside other skin treatments like polynucleotide or NCTF injections help stimulate collagen and elastin naturally from within. Morpheus8 microneedling or High intensity ultrasound (HIFU) can help the body produce collagen through targeted heat under the skin, tightening loose skin along areas like the jawline and jowls.

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is an ablative laser (removes top layer of skin) that uses pulses of laser light to target specific areas of your skin. These laser beams penetrate the skin’s surface and are then absorbed by water molecules in your skin cells. When this happens, the epidermis (top layer of your skin) is vaporised, and the dermis (middle layer of your skin), heats up, stimulating the growth of new collagen fibres. As the area heals, new firmer, smoother skin replaces the old layers.

After CO2 laser treatments, your skin will look refreshed and youthful with even more new collagen and elastin being produced under your skin for up to a year after the treatment! The results can last for up to 10-years!

What can CO2 laser treatments be used for?

CO2 laser treatments are incredibly versatile and well-loved for their ability to rejuvenate the skin and stimulate natural collagen production anywhere in the body. At our clinic, one of our most popular laser resurfacing treatments is full face CO2 resurfacing.

This powerful rejuvenation treatment helps to refresh the skin by reducing sun damage and facial pigmentation to give you a smoother and more radiant complexion. This is the ‘gold-star’ procedure for full-facial rejuvenation, giving you maximum results in one treatment. To help recovery after CO2 treatment, we use a regime of weekly light therapy using our Dermalux Tri-Wave MD LED Phototherapy light. This LED light helps promote healing and reduce inflammation to speed-up the recovery process.

We also use CO2 lasers as an alternative to surgical blepharoplasty (eyelid tightening). The precision of the CO2 laser makes it ideal for targeting this delicate area, offering a non-surgical option to refresh tired-looking eyes with wrinkling.

Beyond rejuvenation, CO2 lasers are also fantastic for treating other skin conditions like stretch marks, acne scars, and general scarring. Their ability to restore and renew the skin makes them a game-changer for anyone looking to boost their confidence and skin quality at the same time!

How long does CO2 laser treatment last

The results of CO2 laser resurfacing treatments for example, typically last between 5 and 10 years. However, how long your personal results last can depend on factors like age, overall health, and how well you care for your skin after the treatment.

To make the most of your results, it’s essential to practise good skincare after your treatment. This includes wearing a high SPF sunscreen daily, keeping your skin moisturised, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
We also offer a range of skin rejuvenation products including Skinceuticals and Obagi. These medical-grade skincare products perfectly complement your device-led treatments, helping you keep your skin in the best shape possible. With the right care, you can enjoy long-lasting, radiant results!

Are there any side effects to CO2 Laser treatments?

CO2 laser treatments are a powerful treatment, but like any other procedure, it comes with potential side effects. Initially, your skin may appear pale or lighter, which can be due to the thickening of the skin as part of the healing process. This gradual change typically resolves within 6–12 months, revealing smoother, rejuvenated skin.

Transient hyperpigmentation (darker patches of skin) is another possible side effect, lasting up to four months. In such cases, skin-lightening treatments can help.

Some individuals may also experience hypersensitivity, redness, swelling, or a prolonged healing period in rare instances. Proper aftercare and medical-grade skincare can help minimise these effects and ensure optimal results. It’s always important to discuss potential risks and your unique skin needs before your treatment.

In Conclusion

CO2 laser treatments have been a trusted and transformative treatment for skin rejuvenation since its inception. Known as the “gold standard” for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and scars, this advanced technology delivers remarkable, long-lasting results.

Our clinic has proudly been at the forefront of CO2 laser treatments since 1996, offering unparalleled expertise and care. If you’re ready to rediscover smooth, radiant, and youthful skin, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.