What should you know about resurfacing CO2 laser?

A carbon dioxide laser vaporises precise portions of the outer skin and warms deeper tissue. This can soften uneven texture, some acne scars, fine lines and sun-related changes while encouraging collagen remodelling. Ablative treatment creates an open healing surface, so redness, swelling, oozing, crusting and sensitivity can occur during recovery. The clinician chooses the intensity and coverage according to your skin, concern and tolerance for downtime.

Have a consultation that covers previous scarring, cold sores, medicines, active acne, eczema and recent tanning. Follow the prescribed cleansing and ointment plan, keep treated skin protected from sunlight, and do not pick peeling areas. Arrange time away from work or social events based on the depth advised. A clinician may recommend antiviral treatment when your history makes cold-sore reactivation a concern.

Contact the treating clinic promptly if pain, swelling, warmth, drainage or redness is worsening rather than settling, or if you develop fever, spreading blisters or vision symptoms. Urgent assessment is needed for breathing difficulty, severe facial swelling or eye pain. These signs can indicate infection, a medication reaction or involvement near the eyes.

Ask which depth and pattern are planned, how long the visible healing phase may last, what products to stop beforehand, how pigmentation risk is managed for your skin tone, and which symptoms should trigger a same-day call.