CO2 Laser Treatment

9 March 2026

What is a CO₂ laser treatment and how can it visibly renew your skin?
Skin aging, fine lines, pigmentation spots, acne scars, and uneven skin texture are common changes that occur because the skin produces less collagen and renews itself more slowly. As a result, the face can appear less fresh, less even, and less firm.

A CO₂ laser treatment is an advanced, skin-renewing therapy that stimulates the skin from within. Using microscopic, controlled laser pulses, the top layer of the skin is refined, and natural collagen production is activated deep within the skin. This process supports skin tightening, smoothing, and texture improvement in a controlled and targeted way.

Because treatment settings, equipment, physician experience, and intensity vary greatly between clinics, it is essential to compare carefully. This provides insight into safety, expected results, and recovery time, allowing you to make an informed choice that suits your skin and goals.

What you need to know about CO2 laser

  • Improves skin texture and tone

  • Stimulates collagen production

  • Reduces wrinkles and scars

  • Results become visible gradually

  • Treatment typically lasts 30–90 minutes

  • Recovery time varies depending on intensity

  • Effects can last for several years

  • Comparing clinics helps ensure a safe choice

Why results and experiences with CO2 laser can vary

Why does the result of a CO2 laser look different for everyone?

The results of a CO2 laser treatment vary per person due to differences in skin type, thickness, pigmentation, and the degree of sun damage or scarring. The CO2 laser creates controlled thermal damage in the skin, stimulating collagen production and skin renewal. The speed and quality of this healing process depend on individual factors such as age, blood circulation, and genetic collagen production. The energy level, depth, and treatment intensity also affect how the tissue responds. This is why the degree of skin tightening, smoothing, and recovery time differs from person to person.

Why does one person see results from CO2 laser faster than another?

The speed of results after a CO2 laser treatment varies due to differences in skin type, age, and healing ability. The laser causes controlled thermal damage, after which the body starts collagen production and skin renewal. With higher blood circulation and more efficient cell turnover, this healing process occurs faster. The depth and energy settings of the treatment also influence how quickly new tissue becomes visible. This is why some people notice improvements in skin texture and evenness sooner than others.

Why are multiple CO2 laser treatments sometimes necessary?

Multiple CO2 laser treatments may be needed for deep wrinkles, scars, or significant sun damage. The laser causes controlled thermal damage, after which collagen production and skin renewal occur gradually. For severe skin changes, one session is often insufficient to treat all damaged skin layers without overloading the tissue. By spacing treatments, the tissue can recover in between, achieving gradual improvements. This is why repeated sessions are sometimes necessary for a visible and stable final result.

Why do prices differ per clinic for a CO2 laser treatment?

Prices for a CO2 laser treatment vary per clinic due to differences in equipment, expertise, and cost structure. Advanced laser systems and maintenance involve higher investment costs, which affect pricing. The experience and medical specialization of the practitioner also play a role, as accurate energy settings and skin assessment are essential for safety. Additionally, treatment intensity and area vary per person, determining the duration and complexity. These factors create price differences between clinics for the same treatment.

Why is comparing clinics important for a CO2 laser treatment?

CO2 laser treatments differ in equipment, energy settings, and practitioner experience. These factors determine the depth of thermal damage and, consequently, the degree of collagen stimulation and skin renewal. Incorrect settings can result in insufficient effect or increased risk of pigmentation changes and scarring. Aftercare and skin type assessment also differ per clinic. By comparing clinics, you gain insight into expertise and treatment protocols, which increases the safety and predictability of the results.

CO2 Laser Treatment

What is CO2 laser & how does it work?

CO2 laser in brief

  • Type of treatment: Skin-renewing laser therapy

  • Purpose: Skin rejuvenation, scar reduction, texture improvement

  • Visible results: Yes

  • Average duration: 30–90 minutes

  • Key success factor: Settings & physician experience

What does CO2 laser do exactly?

The laser creates microscopic channels in the skin, removing damaged skin cells and stimulating the body to produce new collagen.

How does the treatment proceed?

  • Preparation: Skin analysis and anesthesia

  • Treatment: Controlled laser pulses

  • Immediately after: Redness and swelling

How does a CO2 laser treatment work?

The laser works both superficially and deep within the skin for long-lasting improvement.

What can go wrong with a CO2 laser treatment?

During a CO2 laser treatment, temporary side effects may occur, such as redness, swelling, crusting, and a burning sensation of the skin. These are normal responses to controlled skin renewal and usually disappear within a few days to weeks, depending on the treatment’s intensity. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced physician using the correct laser settings.

Which side effects are most common with CO2 laser?

The most common side effects are redness, swelling, tightness or burning sensation, and crusts on the treated skin. These reactions are part of the healing process and typically diminish gradually as the skin recovers.

Can the skin temporarily become darker or lighter after a CO2 laser treatment?

Temporary pigment changes may occur after the treatment, causing the skin to become slightly darker or lighter. This mainly happens if the skin is not adequately protected from sunlight during recovery. With proper aftercare, these changes usually resolve on their own.

Is CO2 laser safe in the long term?

CO2 laser is a widely used and well-researched skin treatment. When applied correctly by an experienced physician, it is considered a safe method for long-term skin rejuvenation and improvement.

When should you contact a physician after a CO2 laser treatment?

It is important to contact a physician if there are signs of infection, severe pain, excessive swelling, or symptoms that last longer than expected. Although rare, it is always wise to seek professional advice if in doubt.

Can the results of CO2 laser be adjusted?

If the desired result is not fully achieved, follow-up treatments can be performed to further improve the skin. This allows the effect to be optimized gradually.

Popular CO2 laser treatments by area

  • Face: Wrinkles and skin rejuvenation

  • Neck: Firming and texture improvement

  • Décolleté: Smoother, more even skin

  • Hands: Younger-looking appearance

  • Acne scars: Skin renewal

CO2 laser – Results, duration & safety

CO2 laser provides:

  • Smoother skin

  • Fewer wrinkles

  • Improved skin texture

  • Fresher appearance

Average duration: Long-lasting, up to several years

Safety depends on:

  • Physician’s experience

  • Correct settings

  • Proper aftercare

How long does CO2 laser last & aftercare

Results: Can be visible for several years

Aftercare:

  • Avoid sun exposure

  • Use SPF

  • Do not scratch

  • Keep skin hydrated

CO2 laser – Suitable / Less suitable for

Suitable if:

  • You want to reduce wrinkles

  • You have scars

  • You want to renew your skin

Less suitable if:

  • Pregnant

  • Active skin infections

  • Very dark skin types (sometimes requires caution)

How to determine if CO2 laser is right for you?

  1. 1 Do you want intensive skin renewal?
  2. 2 Do you have wrinkles or scars?
  3. 3 Are you prepared for recovery time?
  4. 4 Do you want long-lasting results?
  5. 5 Do you have realistic expectations?

CO2 laser Prices, experiences & comparison

Depending on the area treated and the intensity of the procedure. Comparing helps you gain insight into quality and costs.

Compare prices in your area

Compare on experience & price Make an appointment immediately

CO2 laser Experiences: what people pay attention to

  • Visible skin improvement

  • Clear explanation of the recovery process

  • Natural results

  • Knowledgeable physician

  • Transparent pricing

Reviews CO2 laser treatment

I came to Dr Haus with concerns about acne scars and pigmentation, and I genuinely couldn't be happier with my experience from start to finish. Dr Haus took the time to do a thorough consultation and put together a personalised treatment plan with several options — I never felt pushed into anything. His assistant Naomi was brilliant at explaining every step... Show more »
I came to Dr Haus with concerns about acne scars and pigmentation, and I genuinely couldn't be happier with my experience from start to finish.

Dr Haus took the time to do a thorough consultation and put together a personalised treatment plan with several options — I never felt pushed into anything. His assistant Naomi was brilliant at explaining every step of the process, and pricing was always transparent upfront with no surprises.

I've had CO2 laser and RedTouch treatments so far, and the results have been remarkable — my friends and family all noticed the difference without me saying a word. I'm now planning to go back for Ultherapy Prime on my face and neck, and I'm also looking forward to trying Botox.

Thank you to Dr Haus and the whole team for making this such a positive experience. Highly recommend to anyone dealing with scarring, pigmentation, or simply wanting to feel more confident in their skin. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Show less »
13 May 2026 14:02
I had an outstanding experience at Dr Haus Dermatology in London. The clinic is modern, professional, and very welcoming from the moment you arrive. What really stood out to me was how thoroughly everything was explained. The team discussed pricing in detail upfront, which I really appreciated — there were no surprises, and I felt fully informed before start... Show more »
I had an outstanding experience at Dr Haus Dermatology in London. The clinic is modern, professional, and very welcoming from the moment you arrive.
What really stood out to me was how thoroughly everything was explained. The team discussed pricing in detail upfront, which I really appreciated — there were no surprises, and I felt fully informed before starting any treatment. My treatment plan was also carefully tailored and explained step by step, along with a personalised skincare routine to maintain the results.
I’ve had multiple treatments including Ultherapy Prime, CO2 laser, and Botox, and the results have been amazing. I was treated with Botox for my face, neck, and double chin laxity, and I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my skin — it looks tighter, smoother, and more refreshed.
You can tell they focus on high-quality, evidence-based treatments and genuinely care about achieving natural-looking results.
I highly recommend Dr Haus Dermatology. Show less »
Patricia Marshall
Dr Haus Dermatology
24 April 2026 08:08
I had my first visit today for Co2 laser. Very welcoming upon arrival and Jen explained everything clearly before the treatment and ensured I knew what to expect. She talked me through each step of the process and explained the aftercare well. I look forward to going back again and would highly recommend.
Eleanor Hayes
Dermaskin Clinic
7 April 2026 14:02
If I could give 10 stars, I absolutely would. From the moment you walk through the clinic doors, through the treatment itself and the aftercare that follows, Dr Haus and his team are nothing short of exceptional. Even before arriving, it is clear that patient care and safety are genuinely at the heart of everything they do. Every member of staff is warm, pro... Show more »
If I could give 10 stars, I absolutely would. From the moment you walk through the clinic doors, through the treatment itself and the aftercare that follows, Dr Haus and his team are nothing short of exceptional. Even before arriving, it is clear that patient care and safety are genuinely at the heart of everything they do. Every member of staff is warm, professional and incredibly helpful - no question ever feels too big or too small. You can truly sense that it is a fantastic place to work, and that kind of positive team environment naturally translates into an outstanding experience for patients. A strong team is the foundation of any successful clinic, and Dr Haus has clearly built exactly that. Dr Haus himself is one of the kindest, most genuine and knowledgeable people I have ever met. Despite running a busy and very successful clinic, he takes the time to speak with each patient, listens carefully to concerns and makes you feel completely comfortable and understood. I recently had my first CO₂ laser treatment, and Dr Haus and Naomi were both amazing throughout the entire process. From start to finish, the experience could not have been better. The clinic itself is also absolutely beautiful, creating a truly luxurious and calming environment. I would highly recommend Dr Haus and his team to anyone considering treatment - the level of expertise, care and attention to detail is second to none. Show less »
Holly Dymoke-Marr
Dr Haus Dermatology
16 March 2026 07:07
After much research on the best way to remove lip lines and reduce under-eye dark circles, I selected Dr Ayoubi to carry out 2 sessions of CO2 laser in these areas followed by 3 sessions of dermal fillers in both areas. I was underwhelmed by the laser results which barely softened the lip lines, and there was no noticeable change in the under-eye area. I’m... Show more »
After much research on the best way to remove lip lines and reduce under-eye dark circles, I selected Dr Ayoubi to carry out 2 sessions of CO2 laser in these areas followed by 3 sessions of dermal fillers in both areas. I was underwhelmed by the laser results which barely softened the lip lines, and there was no noticeable change in the under-eye area. I’m hoping that the integrity of the skin will improve as time goes by and collagen regenerates (otherwise it’s been a complete waste of money). Furthermore, I hoped that the dermal fillers would vastly improve the situation. But I was wrong. Dr Ayoubi is more than conservative with fillers. 2 sessions in, and the lip lines were as deep as ever. There has been no improvement in the dark circles and I still have big hollows under the eyes. (This is not a case of managing expectations as I am not new to fillers.) I declined to go back for a third session (what would be the point?), and instead I went elsewhere, and after one session of fillers, I got the result I wanted.
Overall, my experience with the LMA clinic was disappointing. On the plus side, Dr Ayoubi is very charming and his staff are lovely. Show less »
9 March 2026 16:04

CO2 laser compared with alternatives

  • CO2 laser vs microneedling: deeper vs superficial

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CO2 laser Compare physicians & clinics

Compare based on:

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CO2 laser Differences between clinics

  • Laser settings

  • Treatment plan

  • Aftercare guidance

  • Pricing structure

Compare clinics in United Kingdom

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Thérapie Clinic - Liverpool
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Thérapie Clinic - Belfast
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Thérapie Clinic - Bluewater, Kent
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Frequently Asked Questions about CO2 laser

What does my skin look like after a CO2 laser?

Is CO2 laser effective?

What are the disadvantages of a CO2 laser treatment?

Will a CO2 laser make my skin tighter?

How long should I avoid sun after a CO2 laser?

CO2 laser treatment is a powerful and effective method for renewing the skin, reducing wrinkles, and improving skin texture. Results are long-lasting and visible, but require skilled execution and proper aftercare. Comparing physicians and clinics provides insight into experience, costs, and treatment quality, contributing to a safe and successful procedure.

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