Skin resurfacing treatments with CO2 laser technology can help you enjoy the dramatic benefits of laser treatments without the downtime of fully (100%) ablative laser treatments. At Springs Aesthetics, we offer CO2 laser skin resurfacing to the residents of Colorado Springs, South Denver, Castle Rock, and other areas of Colorado.

What is CO2 Fractionated Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Fractionated CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a non-ablative laser treatment that delivers heat energy deep into the skin. As a non-ablative treatment, CO2 laser skin resurfacing does not completely damage the outer layer of the skin.

Instead, laser energy is delivered into and beneath the skin to provide rejuvenation from the inside out, as well as a shorter recovery period. The laser treated areas can be as low as 50% up to close to 95%. The lower the density, the quicker the healing but more treatments may be required and less significant results. CO2 laser skin resurfacing can be an effective solution for the following concerns:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Uneven skin tone or texture

How Much Does CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost?

When you meet with Dr. Burroughs for a laser skin resurfacing consultation, he will recommend the best approach and develop a treatment plan. The cost of your laser skin resurfacing will be based upon the plan. Most often a series of 3 treatments provides the best and longest lasting results. For your convenience, Springs Aesthetics offers financing options through CareCredit® and Alphaeon®, and you can apply before you meet with Dr. Burroughs.

Before and After Pictures

Am I a Candidate for CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

If you are looking for a way to diminish acne scars or fine lines and wrinkles, or would like to enhance your skin tone and texture, you may be a good candidate for the CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment. Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick 3 or greater) are at higher risk. Fitzpatrick 4 or higher should not be treated with CO2 laser. These patients, however, can do very well with the coated radiofrequency needle treatments of Fractora and Morpheus. Dr. Burroughs specializes in laser treatments, and the best way to know if you are a good candidate is to schedule a consultation.

How Are The Treatments Done & What Areas Can Be Treated?

This treatment can be performed all over your face, or on targeted areas, such as around the eyes, mouth, neck, décolleté, arms, and hands.

Before the procedure, the face is injected with a numbing nerve block, and in certain situations, we also give an oral medication to relax you. On the hands topical anesthetic may be applied as well as a cryo zimmer unit may be applied. We also have Nitrox (laughing gas) for those who wish to be even further relaxed.

This procedure is done in 3 separate treatments spaced 2 months apart and the results can last 3-4 years with proper skincare maintenance and sun protection.

How is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Performed?

Before treatment begins, the skin will be cleansed to ensure optimal results and safety. We will also apply a topical anesthetic to the skin in order to minimize any discomfort that may occur during treatment. As treatment begins, we will use our laser system to deliver controlled laser energy to the skin. This process may take up to an hour, depending on the desired results and the treatment area.

What is Recovery Like After CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Unlike ablative laser skin resurfacing treatments, the CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment requires minimal downtime. Your skin may swell or become red and sensitive, similar to the effects of a sunburn. These symptoms should fade over the following days, but it is important to protect the skin from excessive sun exposure and other irritants in the meantime.

Recovery time, although different for everyone, it is typically 7-10 days with the first 4 days being the most crucial while the treated areas heal and new layers of healthy skin appear. There may be redness and swelling, as well as shedding of the outer (damaged) layer of skin and small scabs. Use of Hydrabalm, Vaseline, or Aquaphor 4-6 times a day to the treated areas is important until the skin has “shedded” and the new skin is seen. Pinkness or light redness can persist for a while (up to a few months) and can be helped with over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment.

Healing time can be sped with Alastin skincare and recovery balm.  Topical PRP at the time of treatment can “turbo boost” your results by enhancing and speeding healing.

A detailed list of post treatment instructions, as well as any prescriptions needed. This procedure is very safe and effective. Results can last for years and are best achieved by utilizing medical grade SkinCeuticals skincare, which will be recommended for you.

What are the Results from CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

The results of your CO2 laser skin resurfacing will become visible as the skin heals from treatment. Following an appropriately planned series of 3, the results can last up to 3 years especially if maintain your results with proper medical grade skincare. You will notice a gradual improvement in skin elasticity, skin tone, skin texture and wrinkles and lines. Depending on your treatment goals, we typically recommend a series of skin resurfacing treatments for optimal results.

Dr. John Burroughs of Springs Aesthetics is proud to serve the men and women of Colorado Springs, South Denver, Castle Rock, Pueblo and other areas of Colorado. To learn more about CO2 laser skin resurfacing and our other laser treatments, contact us today to schedule a consultation.