How long does CO2 laser resurfacing take to work for acne scars?

The laser creates controlled injury in the skin to stimulate new collagen and refine uneven texture. Redness, swelling, peeling, and sensitivity can temporarily hide progress. The result depends on scar depth and type, the treatment settings, your skin’s healing response, and whether one session or a staged plan is chosen.

Use only the cleanser, ointment, moisturiser, and sunscreen approved by your treating clinician. Keep hands off crusts or peeling areas, avoid heat and direct sun, and pause retinoids, acids, scrubs, shaving, or makeup until cleared. Keep review appointments so healing and pigment changes can be checked before another session is considered.

Call the clinic if redness spreads, pain worsens, swelling increases after initial improvement, or the area develops pus, blisters, or fever. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty or rapidly progressive facial swelling. New or changing pigmentation should be reported, particularly if it does not settle as healing progresses.

Ask which scar types the treatment targets, when washing and exercise can resume, and how progress will be assessed. Discuss your risk of prolonged redness or pigment change, sun protection, and whether additional sessions may be appropriate.