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.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing Before & After
All photos are of Dr. Levesque’s own patients, presented with permission. Hover each card to see the after.
Fractionated CO2, precisely dosed
At Levesque Plastic Surgery, CO2 resurfacing is performed with PhantomClear, an advanced fractional CO2 laser platform. A CO2 laser emits infrared light at 10,600 nm — a wavelength that is strongly absorbed by the water in your skin. In fractionated resurfacing, that energy is delivered in a grid of microscopic columns rather than across the entire surface, so treated zones sit beside untouched skin that speeds healing. Each column creates controlled thermal injury that vaporizes damaged surface tissue and, more importantly, triggers the skin’s wound-healing response — ramping up new collagen and elastin as the area remodels. The result over the following weeks is smoother texture, more even tone, and firmer skin. Because depth and intensity are fully adjustable, the treatment can be dialed from a lighter refresh to a deeper correction based on your skin and your goals.
Concerns it improves
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars and other textural scarring
- Sun damage and pigment irregularities
- Rough, uneven, or dull texture
- Mild skin laxity
- Overall dullness and lost radiance
Preparing & healing well
Before your treatment, limit sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum SPF for several weeks, pause retinoids, acids, and other harsh actives as directed, stay well hydrated, and tell us about any medications or conditions that affect photosensitivity or healing.
As you heal, expect some redness, swelling, and peeling that varies with treatment depth. Keep the area clean and moisturized, protect it diligently from the sun, and — importantly — don’t pick or peel flaking skin. Avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, saunas, and swimming for a few days. We’ll give you a specific aftercare plan and see you for follow-up.
CO2 resurfacing is avoided over active skin infections, with a history of keloid scarring, while taking photosensitizing medication, or during pregnancy. Your consultation confirms it’s a safe fit for your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
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