Are you looking for a way to soften fine lines and wrinkles, even out your skin tone and get your youthful glow back? Full face CO2 laser resurfacing (and Erbium laser resurfacing) may be just what you need. CO2 laser treatment targets wrinkles, scars and sun damage, leaving you with noticeably smoother skin once you’ve healed.
What Is Full Face CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing is an ablative skin treatment. It removes layers of sun-damaged skin and stimulates new collagen growth. When it’s done across the whole face, it treats wrinkles, scars and uneven texture all at once.
A CO2 laser goes much deeper than chemical peels or facials. It triggers a powerful skin renewal process with significant new collagen production. The result is skin that looks truly refreshed, with better tone, texture and firmness. Before and after photos clearly show tighter, smoother and younger-looking skin.
How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?
The treatment directs carbon dioxide laser light onto the skin to vaporize damaged surface layers. There are two main approaches:
- Fully ablative resurfacing removes the damaged outer layers (the epidermis and upper dermis) and prompts your body to build new collagen. It’s ideal for full face improvement.
- Fractional CO2 laser therapy creates tiny openings in the skin instead of treating the entire surface. It works well for targeted or deeper areas and offers a faster recovery than fully ablative treatment.
Both methods work effectively on wrinkles, acne scars and pigmentation, making CO2 resurfacing one of the leading wrinkle treatments we offer.
Benefits of CO2 Laser for the Face
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Removes age spots
- Tightens loose skin and improves elasticity
- Improves acne scars and enlarged pores (especially with fractional CO2)
- Creates more balanced skin tone and smoother texture
- Delivers long-lasting results, often for years
- Can treat the full face or targeted areas like the upper lip or under the eyes
Types of Facial Laser Treatments
The right laser depends on your skin and your goals:
- Ablative lasers (CO2 and Erbium) remove the top layer of skin to encourage fresh, new skin growth.
- Fractional lasers treat small sections of skin for quicker recovery and improved texture.
- Non-ablative lasers stimulate collagen beneath the surface without removing skin, so downtime is minimal.
With these options, we can choose the approach that gives you smoother, more even skin.
What Happens During a CO2 Laser Treatment?
Your skin is first numbed with a topical anesthetic. For extra comfort during CO2 and Erbium resurfacing, we may also use nerve blocks and prescription medications. The laser then delivers precise heat points across your face.
A full face session usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, followed by 1 to 2 hours of recovery in our office. Afterward, your skin will feel warm, tight and stingy, much like a strong sunburn. This is your body’s first stage of healing.
CO2 Laser Recovery: Day-by-Day Healing
Healing takes patience. Here’s what most patients experience:
- Days 1–3: Redness, swelling and some weeping (oozing)
- Days 4–6: Peeling begins as new skin forms
- Days 7–14: Skin looks pink and feels tighter; makeup can often be worn by the end of this stage
- Week 2 to week 12 and beyond: Tone and texture keep improving, though some redness often remains
We take daily recovery photos in our office to track your healing. Following our aftercare instructions helps prevent irritation and reduces side effects.
Before and After CO2 Laser Resurfacing Results
Before and after CO2 laser photos show how much the skin can be rejuvenated: fewer fine lines, better tone and texture, and a more youthful look.
Both fractional CO2 and fully ablative treatments give patients tighter, brighter and clearer skin, with great improvement in acne scars, pigmentation and wrinkles.
Cost of Full Face CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Cost depends on treatment depth, the area treated and the provider you choose. On average:
- Full face CO2 laser resurfacing: 1,000–5,000. Whether general anesthesia is used has a big impact on price.
- Fractional CO2 laser treatment: 1,000–3,000 per session.
Prices vary between providers, so always confirm the total cost during your consultation, including follow-up visits, prescription medications and skincare products.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
CO2 and Erbium laser resurfacing work best for patients with signs of aging, acne scars or uneven skin tone who have realistic expectations. Patients with darker skin tones or certain medical conditions should consult a medical professional first, since their options may be limited. We’ll recommend the best treatment for your skin, health and goals.
Risks and Side Effects
The most common side effects are redness, peeling and short-term sensitivity. When an experienced, qualified provider does the procedure, complications such as mild scarring or pigment changes are rare. Avoiding the sun and following your skincare routine are key to a safe recovery.
Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Keep the area clean and moisturized, washing every 3–4 hours
- Don’t pick at or scrub peeling skin
- Use a gentle cleanser and a recovery ointment such as Vaseline
- Follow your provider’s instructions carefully
Is Full Face CO2 Laser Resurfacing Worth It?
Final results show up over several months as collagen builds and redness fades. If you want smoother, tighter and more even skin, full face CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most effective options available. Recovery takes patience, but with proper skincare, patients enjoy healthier, younger-looking skin for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from CO2 laser resurfacing?
Most patients heal over 1 to 2 weeks and can usually wear makeup by the end of that time. Pinkness and redness can last several weeks, and the skin keeps improving for up to 3 months or more.
How much does full face CO2 laser resurfacing cost?
It typically costs $1,000 to $5,000, depending on treatment depth and whether general anesthesia is used. Fractional CO2 treatments usually range from $1,000 to $3,000 per session.
Is CO2 laser resurfacing painful?
Your skin is numbed with topical anesthesia, and nerve blocks or prescription medication may also be used. Afterward, your skin may feel like it has a strong sunburn.
How long do CO2 laser results last?
With proper skincare and sun protection, results can last for several years.
What is the difference between fractional and fully ablative CO2 laser?
Fully ablative CO2 removes the outer skin layers across the treated area for dramatic results. Fractional CO2 treats tiny columns of skin, so recovery is faster.
