CO2 laser is an ablative laser treatment that removes thin outer layers of skin and delivers heat energy to the underlying tissue to stimulate activity in the dermal tissue. It may be considered for individuals seeking to address deeper wrinkles, sun damage, pigmentation, and scarring.

What is CO2 Laser Treatment?

CO2 laser is an ablative laser treatment. Ablative laser treatments work by removing thin outer layers of the skin and delivering heat energy to the underlying tissue. It may be sought to address concerns about skin texture and tone.

What Does The Treatment Involve?

Consultation

A consultation at Ascension Cosmetic Medicine is required before any CO2 laser treatment proceeds. During your consultation, your clinician will assess your skin condition, review your medical history, discuss the specific concerns you wish to address, and outline what changes may realistically be achievable for your individual circumstances. The consultation is also an opportunity to discuss the risks and potential side effects of CO2 laser treatment and to ask any questions you may have.

Whether CO2 laser is appropriate for your concerns — and whether it or an alternative approach may be more suitable — will be determined during consultation.

The procedure

Prior to treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed. A topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area before the procedure begins. CO2 laser treatment involves the delivery of laser energy to the skin — the sensation experienced varies between individuals. Procedure duration typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area being treated and individual circumstances.

Recovery

Following CO2 laser treatment, it is normal to experience soreness, redness, and a sensation similar to mild sunburn. These effects are a normal part of the healing process. Redness and flaking of the skin may be present for approximately five to seven days following treatment, during which individuals may prefer to avoid social commitments — individual recovery varies. It is important to follow the post-treatment care instructions provided by your clinician, which will include guidance on moisturising the treated area and protecting the skin from sun exposure during recovery.

Ablative versus non-ablative laser treatments

Ablative laser treatments remove the outer layer of skin and deliver heat energy to the underlying tissue. Non-ablative laser treatments deliver heat energy to the underlying skin without removing the outer layer. Both approaches are designed to stimulate dermal activity and may contribute to changes in skin texture and tone.

Ablative treatments — including CO2 laser — are generally associated with a more significant recovery period than non-ablative treatments, and may be considered for more pronounced skin concerns including deeper wrinkles, scarring, and pigmentation. Non-ablative treatments may be considered for milder concerns including fine lines and mild pigmentation, and are generally associated with a shorter recovery period. Multiple sessions are commonly required for non-ablative treatments.

Whether an ablative, non-ablative, or combination approach may be appropriate for your circumstances will be assessed during consultation. Individual suitability and the recommended treatment approach depend on factors including skin type, skin condition, and the nature and extent of the concerns being addressed.

Your consultation

To discuss whether CO2 laser treatment may be appropriate for your individual circumstances, please contact Ascension Cosmetic Medicine to arrange a consultation.