CO₂ Laser Resurfacing: A Step-by-Step Treatment Guide by Dr Nina Sheffield

CO₂ laser resurfacing is a medically led procedure that requires consultation, individual treatment planning and a structured recovery period. This guide explains what patients can expect before, during and after treatment at rtwskin.

This powerful and advanced laser can do much more! It reveals a whole new fresh layer of the skin. And it can improve pigmentation, signs of ageing, sun damage, acne scars, enlarged pores, dullness, age spots, stretch marks and skin laxity. At rtwskin, CO₂ laser resurfacing is performed using the Lumenis UltraPulse Alpha. Treatment settings are selected according to the patient’s concern, skin characteristics, treatment area and acceptable recovery time.

For an overview of suitability, possible benefits, risks and treatment options, visit our CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment page.

CO₂ Laser Resurfacing: A Step-by-Step Treatment Guide by Dr Nina Sheffield content post image

“I achieve the best results with more in-depth treatments, however, some of my patients, prefer to go for a course of superficial procedures to reduce downtime. During a complimentary consultation, I always explain the best options and customise a treatment plan for each individual patient.” – says Dr Nina.

Consultation and Skin Assessment

Your journey starts with a consultation where Dr Nina will discuss all your concerns and assess your complexion. At rtwskin, we always focus on real results that can be achieved, and we highlight the number of treatments that are needed to achieve a desirable outcome.

Patch Testing and Treatment Planning

Consultations are necessary, as your practitioner will perform a test patch for the laser procedure this is required at least 24h prior to the treatment.

Preparing for the Procedure

An hour to your CO2 procedure the practitioner will apply a local anaesthetic cream to your skin. It takes 30 – 45 mins for the cream to numb the area. After that time, your treatment will begin.

What Happens During CO₂ Laser Resurfacing

The CO2 Resurfacing process takes about an hour for a full face procedure and feels like a “pins and needles” sensation. Dr Nina will be accompanied by an assistant who will direct a strong stream of cold air (Zimmer cooler) to the treated area to ease any discomfort. “I always ensure that the patient is comfortable through the whole procedure. Areas such eyes or mouth are more sensitive, and the strength of the laser can always be amended.

How Fractional CO₂ Laser Resurfacing Works

”The Fractional CO2 Laser beams create microscopic channels within the skin by removing its tiny fractions in a scanning pattern. Dr Nina clarifies: ” It sounds scary, but these fractions are actually finer than a human hair.”

That’s when the repairing process begins. Channels created by the laser beam are being replaced with the new fresh skin, and process of the new formation begins. The whole procedure generates an entirely new layer of epidermal tissue – the top layer of the skin.

”It also has a much-desired, tightening effect on the dermal tissue which is a deeper level of our skin.” Dr Nina adds.

Immediately After Treatment

After your procedure, Dr Nina will apply Fucidin, and you will be given this Antibiotic ointment for at-home use. Dr Nina explains that it is crucial to avoid sun exposure and following our aftercare guide to support the skins healing process. Your skin will become susceptible, and you might feel a sensation similar to severe sunburn. As the healing process progresses, over the following weeks, the skin will gradually become smoother, and redness will fade away.

When Will You See Results?

Generally, results of CO2 Laser Resurfacing are long-term, and with a customised maintenance program, these can last for years. Some improvements begin to be visible as soon as 2-3 weeks after. You will experience skin tightening immediately after the treatment, but the improvements will continue to develop over the coming months. Benefits are what we all love to hear about, so here is some… Dr Nina reminds that all results depend on the individual skin condition and the number of treatments suggested by the practitioner during a consultation. Your skin will become tighter and plumper. Fine lines and wrinkles will be noticeably softened. As the new collagen production continues for up to one year following treatment, you will experience an improvement in skin texture and laxity. Pigmentation and roughness will start to fade away, leaving a youthful, dewy glow.