What should you know about a CO2 non-ablative laser?

A CO2 non-ablative laser heats targeted skin without removing the entire treated surface, but it still needs medical assessment and careful aftercare. “Non-ablative” describes the main way energy is delivered; it does not mean there is no redness, swelling, pigment change, infection risk, or downtime.

Laser energy reaches selected layers to encourage controlled healing and collagen remodeling while much of the surface remains intact. Results and recovery depend on the device, pulse pattern, energy, treatment area, and whether it is combined with another procedure. Labels can be used differently, so ask the clinic to explain exactly what will happen to the surface of your skin.

See the general [CO2 Laser](/technology/co2-laser/) overview and compare it with [CO2 Laser Resurfacing](/treatments/laser-and-energy/co2-laser-resurfacing/).

Have a clinician review your skin tone, active acne, eczema, cold-sore history, scarring tendency, medicines, and the concern being treated. Follow instructions about sun exposure, retinoids or other irritating products, shaving, cleansing, and moisturising. Arrange shade and gentle skincare after treatment; do not pick flakes or crusts.

For texture or scars, ask whether [Acne Scar Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/acne-scar-laser-treatment/) or another form of [Laser Skin Resurfacing](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-skin-resurfacing/) is more appropriate.

Call the treating clinician for increasing rather than settling pain, spreading warmth or redness, pus, fever, severe swelling, blistering, or delayed healing. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or eye pain or vision change.

Which layers will the device affect? What visible recovery should I expect? How will you reduce pigment risk for my skin tone? Which medicines or products should I pause, and when can I restart them?