What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is an advanced ablative treatment designed to improve wrinkles, texture, sun damage, acne scars, and mild skin laxity.
Skin aging cannot be fully addressed with surface treatments alone. Meaningful rejuvenation requires controlled injury within both the epidermal and dermal layers to stimulate collagen remodeling and structural renewal.
The CO2 laser creates precise microthermal zones that activate the body’s healing response and collagen production. This results in smoother texture, improved tone, and firmer, more resilient skin over time.
CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Before and After
is this procedure
Right for you?
CO2 laser resurfacing is designed to create significant skin renewal by removing damaged surface layers and stimulating deep collagen remodeling. Results evolve as healing progresses. Many patients experience:
- Smoother texture and reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
- Improved tone and visible sun damage correction
- Softening of acne scars and surface irregularities
- Firmer, more resilient skin quality
- A brighter, more refined overall appearance
CO2 laser resurfacing may be an effective option if you are experiencing:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone or texture
- Sun damage or pigmentation irregularities
- Acne scarring
- Skin laxity or crepiness
During consultation, skin thickness, pigmentation patterns, scarring depth, and recovery tolerance are evaluated to determine whether CO2 laser resurfacing is the appropriate modality.
Recovery
CO2 laser resurfacing requires planned downtime.
Redness, swelling, warmth, and peeling are expected and often resemble a significant sunburn. Initial re-epithelialization typically occurs within one to two weeks, followed by gradual improvement in tone and texture.
Detailed aftercare instructions are provided to reduce inflammation, protect the skin barrier, and optimize collagen remodeling
Results
Once healing progresses, smoother texture, improved tone, and firmer skin quality become evident.
Collagen remodeling continues for several months, leading to progressive improvement beyond the initial healing phase.
Results are long lasting and may be maintained with appropriate skincare and periodic maintenance treatments.
Gould Standard
The CO2 Laser Resurfacing Procedure
The skin is cleansed and prepared prior to treatment. Topical numbing medication is applied to enhance comfort. Nitrous oxide may be offered when appropriate.
Controlled CO2 laser energy is delivered across the treatment area, resurfacing damaged epidermis while stimulating deeper dermal collagen remodeling. Treatment time typically remains under one hour depending on the surface area and intensity selected.
A structured post-procedure topical regimen is applied immediately to support barrier repair and healing.
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Meet Nurse Jazmine Sandoval, RN
Jazmine Sandoval, RN is an experienced aesthetic nurse with over 6 years in clinical care, including 5 years in plastic surgery and 3 years specializing in advanced skin treatments. As part of Dr. Gould’s team, she takes a precision-based approach to CO₂ laser resurfacing, focusing on improving skin tone, texture, and overall skin quality.
Patients trust her for refined results that smooth fine lines, reduce sun damage, and restore a more even, rejuvenated complexion.
REGISTERED NURSE | AESTHETIC PROVIDER | BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Frequently asked questions
Most patients describe the sensation as a warm snapping feeling, similar to small rubber bands against the skin. Topical numbing medication is used, and nitrous oxide is available to improve comfort during treatment.
Many patients achieve noticeable improvement with a single treatment. Additional treatments may be recommended depending on skin condition, severity of concerns, and desired results.
Initial healing typically takes one to two weeks, during which redness, swelling, and peeling are expected. Redness may persist longer but fades gradually as the skin regenerates.
When performed by an experienced provider, CO2 laser resurfacing is considered safe. Potential risks include temporary redness, swelling, infection, or changes in skin pigmentation. Dr. Gould will evaluate your skin type and medical history during consultation to minimize risk.
Pricing varies based on treatment area and intensity. During your consultation, your provider will create a personalized treatment plan and review exact pricing once your plan is finalized.
Do you have additional questions?
Speak with our team to explore whether a tailored, CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing anatomy-first approach is right for you.