CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO2 laser removes damaged skin layers and stimulates deep collagen production — the gold standard for dramatic improvement in lines, texture, sun damage, and scars.
CO2 laser resurfacing is an ablative skin treatment that uses precisely controlled laser energy to remove damaged outer skin layers and stimulate new collagen deep in the skin. It is one of the most effective single treatments for deep wrinkles, sun damage, uneven texture, acne scars, and mild skin laxity. Because it works deeper than lighter lasers, the results are dramatic — with a recovery period to match.
It suits patients ready to trade roughly one to two weeks of visible healing for a significant, long-lasting improvement in wrinkles, tone, and scarring. Treatment depth is tailored to your skin type and goals, and Dr. Levesque reviews candidacy, diligent sun protection, and realistic recovery expectations before proceeding.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing — Skin Renewal
CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most effective treatments available for skin texture, tone, and tightening. The laser removes the outer damaged layers of skin while simultaneously stimulating collagen production in deeper layers — producing dramatic improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, brown spots, acne scars, and overall skin quality.
Unlike superficial treatments that only address the surface, CO2 laser reaches deeper layers where lasting change occurs. A single fractional CO2 treatment can produce results that are comparable to years of superficial treatments, making it the gold standard for skin resurfacing in patients who want significant, long-lasting improvement.
Fractional CO2 (rather than fully ablative) uses columns of laser energy with untreated skin between them — accelerating healing while still producing dramatic results. At Levesque Plastic Surgery in Austin, TX, Dr. Levesque performs fractional CO2 resurfacing for patients seeking meaningful improvement in skin quality with predictable recovery. Most patients need only one treatment.
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and brown spots
- Acne scars and textural irregularities
- Skin laxity (mild-to-moderate)
- Uneven skin tone and enlarged pores
The treated skin will be red and raw-feeling for 5–7 days, similar to a sunburn. Peeling occurs as new skin forms underneath. Most patients are comfortable in public by day 7–10. Redness fades over 4–8 weeks. Sun protection is essential for 6 months.
What to Expect
✓ Medically reviewed by Dr. Andre Y. Levesque, MD · Board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) · Last reviewed January 19, 2026
CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most powerful non-surgical tools for improving skin texture, deep wrinkles, sun damage, and scarring. Here's what a treatment involves.
Dr. Levesque examines your skin type and concerns, explains what a resurfacing treatment can and can't do for you, and sets expectations for downtime and results.
The fractional CO2 laser removes damaged surface skin and stimulates new collagen. Comfort is managed with topical numbing and settings tailored to your goals; a session generally takes under an hour.
Expect several days of redness, swelling, and peeling as fresh skin surfaces. Diligent moisturizing and strict sun protection are essential to a great result.
Am I a Candidate?
CO2 resurfacing rewards patients who want meaningful texture change and can plan for downtime. Good candidates typically:
- Want to improve fine lines, deeper wrinkles, sun damage, or acne scarring
- Can take several days of social downtime for the skin to heal
- Are non-smokers in good health and committed to sun protection afterward
- Have discussed their skin type with Dr. Levesque to confirm suitability
CO2 resurfacing is powerful but not right for every skin type — deeper skin tones carry a higher risk of pigment change with ablative lasers. Dr. Levesque will assess your skin and may recommend a gentler alternative if it's the safer choice.
Healing & Results
- Days 1–3: Skin is red and swollen, like a strong sunburn; keep it moist and protected as directed.
- Days 4–7: Old skin peels and flakes to reveal fresh skin underneath; most redness begins to fade.
- Weeks 2–4: Pinkness continues to settle; makeup can usually resume once the skin has healed.
- Months 2–6: Collagen remodeling continues, so texture and firmness keep improving for months after a single treatment.
Cost & Financing
Pricing depends on the treatment area (full face versus a targeted region) and depth. Because it's tailored to your skin and goals, we quote it after your consultation.
Levesque Plastic Surgery offers financing through CareCredit, Alphaeon, Cherry, and PatientFi, with monthly-payment plans that can be pre-qualified in minutes without affecting your credit. See our financing options or the full menu of services & pricing.
Before & After
Actual patients treated at Levesque Plastic Surgery. Individual results vary.
Frequently asked questions
What does CO2 laser resurfacing treat?
CO2 laser resurfacing works well on fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, uneven tone and texture, acne scars, enlarged pores, and overall laxity. It's one of the most powerful resurfacing treatments available, driving significant collagen remodeling for lasting improvement.
What is recovery like after CO2 laser?
Recovery depends on how deep we go. A full ablative CO2 treatment usually means 7–14 days of healing with redness, swelling, and peeling, and the skin stays pink for several weeks. Strict sun protection and the skincare regimen I prescribe are essential during that time, and most patients are back to social activities after about 2 weeks with makeup.
How many CO2 laser treatments will I need?
Most patients get dramatic results from a single ablative treatment. Lighter fractionated settings may take a series of 2–3 with less downtime. I'll recommend the right depth and number of treatments based on your concerns and how much downtime you can take.
Is CO2 laser safe for all skin tones?
CO2 laser is most commonly used on lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III), because darker skin has a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. I carefully evaluate your skin type and may recommend an alternative or a modified protocol for darker complexions to keep you safe.
When will I see results from CO2 laser?
You'll see initial results once you've healed at 2–4 weeks, and the skin keeps improving for 6–12 months as collagen remodels. Most patients are thrilled and find it goes well beyond what topical products can do.
How much downtime does CO2 laser require?
Plan for roughly five to seven days of visible redness and peeling for a fuller treatment. Lighter settings mean less downtime but more gradual results — Dr. Levesque will match the approach to your schedule and goals.
How many treatments will I need?
A single deeper CO2 treatment can produce dramatic results, which is part of its appeal. Some patients choose a lighter series instead. Your plan is set at consultation.
When will I see results?
Fresh, smoother skin appears within a couple of weeks, and results continue improving for months as new collagen forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
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