What Are the Risks or Side Effects of CO2 Laser Resurfacing? A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• CO2 laser resurfacing can effectively treat various skin concerns but may carry risks.
• Common side effects include redness, swelling, and temporary discomfort.
• Depth of treatment significantly influences the risk level associated with CO2 lasers.
• Aftercare is essential for minimising complications post-treatment.
• Certain skin types and medical histories may require caution before undergoing laser treatment.

Understanding CO2 Laser Resurfacing and How It Works

CO2 laser resurfacing is an ablative laser treatment that removes precise layers of damaged skin, promoting new skin formation through natural healing. This resurfacing treatment can be performed on specific treatment areas, such as the eyes, mouth, or cheeks, or as a full-face treatment for overall rejuvenation.

Unlike nonablative fractional laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) systems that heat the skin without removing layers, ablative CO2 devices vaporise the outermost tissue. This process stimulates new collagen production and encourages smoother, firmer skin over time.

Because ablative laser resurfacing penetrates deeply, it’s especially effective for conditions such as acne scarring, deep wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin.

How the Laser Targets and Resurfaces the Skin

The laser CO2 system operates using a wavelength of 10,600 nanometres, which is ideal for precise water absorption in the skin. This makes it highly effective at vaporising microscopic layers of tissue without damaging surrounding structures.

During treatment, the laser beam creates micro-columns of heat in the skin, each triggering a controlled injury response that boosts collagen and elastin formation. The process is similar across types of laser resurfacing, but fractional CO2 laser resurfacing differs by targeting only a fraction of the skin at once, leaving surrounding tissue intact.

This fractional resurfacing method promotes faster recovery, as untreated zones assist in rapid healing. It’s particularly beneficial for patients seeking visible rejuvenation without extensive downtime or those with darker skin types, who may be more prone to pigment irregularities.

As healing progresses, the treated areas of the face begin to reveal new skin that appears smoother, brighter, and more even in tone.

Why Deeper Treatments Carry Higher Risk

The intensity and depth of ablative CO2 laser resurfacing directly influence the incidence of side effects. Deeper resurfacing penetrates multiple dermal layers, achieving more dramatic effects but also increasing the risk of side effects such as redness, swelling, or prolonged sensitivity.

A full-face carbon dioxide laser session typically involves greater downtime because more tissue is removed, requiring longer regeneration. In contrast, fractional CO2 laser and YAG laser methods treat partial zones, which significantly reduce healing time and risk.

Potential complications of carbon dioxide laser procedures include:

• Temporary erythema (redness): Common in the early healing stage and usually subsides within days to weeks.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): More likely in darker skin tones if aftercare instructions are not strictly followed.
• Mild crusting or peeling: Can occur as the skin regenerates and dead cells are shed.
• Swelling and tenderness: Temporary inflammation due to tissue repair.
• Infection or scarring (rare): May develop if the treated area is not properly cared for during recovery.

It’s crucial to discuss your treatment plan and expectations with your dermatologist, as the balance between depth and safety depends on your unique skin concerns, tolerance for downtime, and medical history.

How Skin Type and Depth Determine Risk Level

Every individual’s response to CO2 laser resurfacing varies depending on their unique skin type and the depth of treatment performed. These two factors are central to assessing the risk of side effects and tailoring a safe, effective resurfacing treatment plan.

Dermatologists use the Fitzpatrick skin type classification to guide treatment depth and energy settings. This system classifies skin into six categories (Type I–VI) based on melanin levels and reaction to sun exposure.

• Fair skin (Types I–II): These patients generally experience minimal complications of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing. The skin tolerates deeper ablative laser treatment well, including full-face procedures, since the risk of pigmentation changes is lower.
• Medium skin (Types III–IV): While results can be excellent, practitioners often reduce the laser energy or choose fractional CO2 laser resurfacing to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These patients must follow strict post-laser skin care to maintain an even tone.
• Darker skin (Types V–VI): Extra care is required. Ablative CO2 treatments can still be effective but must be performed by experienced laser surgeons who use conservative settings or hybrid systems such as YAG laser or nonablative fractional laser options.

In general, the deeper the laser penetrates, the greater the rejuvenation potential, but also the higher the chance of temporary redness, peeling, or pigment changes. 

Customising depth and density for each treatment area, whether targeting wrinkles, acne scarring, or uneven texture, ensures visible results while maintaining safety. 

Common Side Effects of CO2 Laser Treatment

After a laser skin resurfacing procedure, temporary side effects are expected as the skin begins its natural renewal process. These reactions signal that the treatment that uses light and heat to resurface your skin is prompting regeneration of new skin cells beneath.

While the incidence of side effects is low when performed by an expert, they can vary depending on your skin type, treatment depth, and the specific type of laser used.

Redness, Swelling, and Skin Sensitivity

Immediately following ablative CO2 laser resurfacing, most patients experience redness and swelling across the treatment sites. This reaction is a normal inflammatory response as the body begins repairing itself.

The skin may feel warm, tender, and more sensitive, similar to a mild to moderate sunburn. This phase is temporary and typically subsides within several days. Using cold compresses, thermal water sprays, and fragrance-free moisturisers can help reduce inflammation and restore comfort.

For fractional laser or ablative laser treatment that covers the entire face, swelling may be slightly more pronounced due to the increased surface area treated. However, these effects are a natural sign of healing, indicating that the skin is regenerating beneath the surface.

Peeling, Crusting, and Temporary Discomfort

As healing progresses, you may notice areas of peeling, flaking, or crusting on the treated skin. This phase occurs when the outer layer sheds to reveal new skin that is smoother, brighter, and more even in tone.

Although peeling may appear concerning, it’s a vital step in recovery, showing that laser skin treatments have effectively removed older, damaged cells. Avoid picking or scrubbing during this time, as doing so could interfere with healing or increase the risk of pigmentation.

Some mild discomfort or tightness may also occur, particularly around the mouth and eyes, where resurfacing treatment is more delicate. Applying gentle emollients and following post-laser care instructions closely will help minimise these sensations while protecting the forming new skin.

How Long Do Common Side Effects Last?

The duration and intensity of side effects depend on the type and depth of laser resurfacing performed. Generally, redness and swelling resolve within one week for fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, while deeper ablative laser resurfacing may require a longer recovery period of up to two weeks.

Peeling and dryness usually follow for several days, revealing refreshed skin tissue underneath. During this time, the treatment area should be kept clean, moisturised, and protected from UV exposure to prevent complications.

Darker skin types may experience mild pigmentation changes that fade gradually with diligent skin care and sun protection. Following your practitioner’s guidance and using soothing recovery products will help ensure that your skin may heal evenly and reveal long-lasting, glowing results.

Common Side Effect Overview

• Redness (3–7 days): The most visible reaction after treatment. Intensity varies depending on skin type and treatment depth.
• Swelling (3–7 days): More common following full-face or deeper procedures. It gradually subsides as the skin begins to heal.
• Skin Sensitivity (1–2 weeks): Often feels similar to mild sunburn. It’s best to avoid heat, exercise, and active skincare products during this time.
• Peeling (5–14 days): A natural sign of skin regeneration. Allow the skin to shed naturally — avoid picking or exfoliating manually.
• Temporary Discomfort (varies): Mild stinging or warmth may occur but can be managed easily with cool compresses and soothing moisturisers.

Final Notes on Recovery: Most complications of carbon dioxide laser are avoidable with proper aftercare and professional oversight.

Following your provider’s post-laser instructions, hydrating the skin, using sunscreen daily, and refraining from picking or scratching, minimises downtime and helps you achieve the desired outcome.

While temporary redness or peeling is normal, persistent irritation or signs of infection should always be assessed by your practitioner.

With patience and attentive skin care, your ablative laser or fractional CO2 laser resurfacing treatment will reveal radiant, healthy, and youthful new skin within just a few weeks.

Short-Term Risks After CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Following CO2 laser resurfacing, it’s normal to experience several short-term effects as your skin begins to heal. While these are typically temporary, understanding them helps you manage expectations and practise proactive post-laser skin care.

Common short-term risks include infection, inflammation, delayed healing, and temporary pigmentation changes such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Infection, Delayed Healing, and Inflammation

After ablative laser treatment or fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, your skin is more vulnerable as it repairs itself.

The treated skin tissue remains highly sensitive until the new skin forms, which can take one to two weeks depending on treatment intensity and your individual healing response.

• Infection: The risk of infection increases if bacteria enter the compromised skin barrier. This can occur if post-laser care is neglected or the treatment sites are not kept clean. Your practitioner may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to prevent this.
• Delayed healing: Deeper ablative CO2 treatments and larger treatment areas (such as full-face carbon dioxide laser procedures) require more time for the epidermis to regenerate. Smoking, dehydration, or harsh skincare products can further slow this recovery process.
• Inflammation: Inflammation is part of the body’s healing mechanism. Redness, mild swelling, or tenderness may appear in the days following treatment. Cooling compresses, gentle hydration, and anti-inflammatory ointments recommended by your practitioner can help soothe discomfort.

Maintaining a sterile environment and closely following your post-laser care plan are the most effective ways to prevent complications of carbon dioxide laser treatment during this phase.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is one of the most frequently discussed short-term concerns, especially for those with medium to darker skin types. PIH occurs when inflammation triggers excess melanin production, leaving darkened patches on the treated areas.

Patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI are more likely to experience PIH following fractional laser or ablative CO2 treatments because their skin contains higher levels of melanin.

However, these pigmentation changes are typically temporary and can fade with proper management. Preventative measures include:

• Applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily after your resurfacing treatment.
• Using brightening or pigment-stabilising serums as advised by your practitioner.
• Avoiding direct sunlight and heat exposure during recovery.

With consistent skin care and follow-up appointments, PIH can be minimised or prevented entirely.

How Common Are These Short-Term Risks?

Short-term side effects are relatively common after laser skin resurfacing, but they are generally mild and self-limiting. Studies show that complications of fractional CO2 laser are less frequent compared to older, fully ablative methods due to advances in fractional resurfacing technology.

Most patients experience temporary redness and swelling, while less than 5% develop superficial infections or prolonged irritation. Practitioners trained in treatment with fractional and nonablative fractional laser systems can further reduce risk through tailored settings and strict hygiene protocols.

Being informed about potential short-term issues empowers you to actively participate in your recovery. Always consult your provider, if you notice unusual discomfort, discharge, or persistent redness during healing.

Long-Term or Rare Complications of CO2 Laser Treatment

Although CO2 laser resurfacing is considered one of the safest and most effective laser skin treatments, rare or long-term complications can occasionally occur. These are more likely with aggressive ablative laser resurfacing, improper post-care, or unqualified providers.

Scarring and Textural Irregularities

Scarring is a rare but possible complication of ablative CO2 laser resurfacing, typically resulting from infection, improper technique, or premature disruption of healing tissue. When the laser beam penetrates too deeply or unevenly, the regeneration process can produce raised or indented scars, leading to textural irregularities.

This risk is minimised when your skin treatment is performed by a qualified dermatologist or laser surgeon experienced in fractional CO2 and ablative laser systems. Advanced clinics like the Institute of Medical Physics utilise precision-guided technologies to ensure even energy delivery across the treatment sites, reducing trauma to surrounding tissue.

Proper hydration, infection control, and avoiding scratching or picking during the post-laser recovery phase are essential in preventing scarring and uneven texture.

Persistent Redness or Hypopigmentation

While temporary redness is expected after laser skin resurfacing, in rare cases it can persist for several months or longer. Persistent erythema (redness) usually occurs when the treatment area has been overtreated or if the skin care routine post-procedure is not followed correctly.

Hypopigmentation, or loss of skin colour, may occur when melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) are damaged during ablative laser treatment. This side effect is more common with deeper ablative CO2 passes or repeated treatments on the same areas of the face.

Although the incidence of side effects is low, patients with lighter or highly sensitive skin may be more susceptible to visible pigment changes. 

Fortunately, newer fractional CO2 laser resurfacing and nonablative fractional laser systems have significantly lowered these risks by distributing energy in a controlled, grid-like pattern that allows faster healing.

Can CO2 Laser Side Effects Be Permanent?

In most cases, side effects following CO2 laser resurfacing are temporary and improve as the skin heals and remodels itself. The lasting effects of CO2 laser largely depend on the skin’s response to treatment and how well it is cared for during recovery.

Long-term complications, such as hypopigmentation or scarring, are rare and often preventable through expert care and proper skin care maintenance. The permanence of side effects depends on factors such as:

• The depth and aggressiveness of the resurfacing treatment.
• Your skin type and healing capacity.
• The precision of your practitioner during laser surgery.
• Diligence with post-laser instructions and follow-up visits.

Regular skin assessments help your provider identify and address any lingering issues early, ensuring that your laser CO2 results remain smooth, even, and long-lasting.

With expert planning, realistic expectations, and consistent care, the benefits of ablative CO2 laser resurfacing far outweigh the risks.

Factors That Increase CO2 Laser Side Effect Risks

Understanding the factors that elevate risk during CO2 laser resurfacing is essential for achieving beautiful, long-lasting results while minimising unwanted side effects. 

The success and safety of this resurfacing treatment depend on a careful balance of laser intensity, individual skin characteristics, and practitioner expertise.

How Treatment Depth and Power Settings Affect Safety

The treatment depth and energy level used during ablative CO2 laser resurfacing determine both the effectiveness and the potential for side effects. 

Shallow treatments using fractional CO2 laser or nonablative fractional laser technology target micro-zones within the skin, offering subtle rejuvenation and faster recovery with minimal risk.

In contrast, deeper ablative laser treatments, such as full-field or full-face carbon dioxide laser resurfacing, remove entire layers of damaged skin. 

While these can produce dramatic improvements in wrinkles, texture, and scarring, they also require a longer recovery and carry an increased chance of redness, peeling, and infection if not properly managed. Key factors influencing risk include:

• Laser power and pulse duration: Higher power or longer exposure increases heat within the tissue, which can lead to complications of carbon dioxide laser treatment such as scarring or delayed healing. 
• Treatment density: Overlapping passes or high-density patterns during fractional resurfacing can overheat the skin, heightening inflammation and discomfort. 
• Cooling intervals: Allowing the skin tissue to cool between passes helps minimise the risk of side effects while maintaining consistent, even energy distribution. 

The best practitioners adjust these parameters precisely based on your unique skin condition and goals, ensuring optimal rejuvenation without compromising safety.

Skin Type, Medical History, and Sun Exposure

Your skin type, as classified by the Fitzpatrick scale, plays a significant role in determining how your skin reacts to laser skin treatments.

• Fair to medium skin types (I–III) generally tolerate ablative CO2 laser resurfacing well, with fewer pigment-related complications. 
• Darker skin tones (IV–VI) require additional precautions, as higher melanin levels can increase the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or uneven healing. For these patients, fractional CO2 or YAG laser systems are often preferred because they allow energy to be delivered more selectively, reducing risks. 

Your medical history also influences healing. Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or a history of keloid scarring can delay recovery or raise the likelihood of complications of fractional CO2 laser. 

Similarly, certain medications, including isotretinoin (Accutane), can interfere with wound repair and should be disclosed during consultation.

Lastly, sun exposure before and after laser surgery dramatically affects results. Recently tanned or sunburnt skin contains activated melanocytes, which can cause irregular pigmentation when exposed to ablative CO2 or fractional laser energy. 

Avoiding sun exposure for at least four weeks prior to treatment, and maintaining strict sun protection afterward, is essential for safe, even healing.

Improper Laser Settings or Inexperienced Practitioners

Perhaps the most critical factor influencing safety is the experience and skill of your practitioner. The precision required for ablative laser treatment and fractional CO2 laser resurfacing cannot be overstated, incorrect power settings or technique can lead to burns, scarring, or prolonged redness.

An inexperienced practitioner may:

• Use inappropriate treatment depths for your skin type. 
• Overlap passes unevenly across the treatment sites, increasing the risk of texture irregularities. 
• Fail to provide adequate cooling or post-laser aftercare guidance. 

Conversely, a trained laser surgeon or dermatologist with advanced experience in CO2 and fractional resurfacing technologies can tailor the type of laser, pulse width, and intensity to your specific needs. 

Always verify your practitioner’s credentials, training, and experience in laser skin resurfacing before booking your session.

How to Minimise Risks and Support Safe Healing

Undergoing CO2 laser resurfacing requires careful consideration to minimise risks and ensure safe healing. Being informed and prepared can greatly enhance your treatment experience. Engaging in discussions with your practitioner can provide valuable insights into their methodology and your individual needs.

Questions to Ask Your Practitioner Before Treatment

Before undergoing any CO2 laser or fractional resurfacing procedure, discuss these questions with your provider:

• What is your experience with ablative CO2 laser resurfacing or fractional CO2 laser? 
• What safety measures do you implement during treatment to prevent complications of carbon dioxide laser? 
• Can you explain how you customise settings for different skin types? 
• What will my post-laser recovery and aftercare entail? 
• How are complications handled if they arise? 

These enquiries help you understand your practitioner’s approach and ensure they prioritise safety, precision, and patient education.

Pre-Treatment Preparation and Sun Avoidance

Proper pre-treatment care greatly influences both safety and results. In the weeks leading up to your resurfacing treatment, your practitioner may recommend a tailored skin care routine to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the risk of pigmentation changes. 

This might include antioxidant serums, gentle cleansers, and pigment-suppressing agents for those prone to uneven tone. Avoid the following before your procedure:

• Direct sunlight and tanning for at least four weeks. 
• Active skincare products like retinoids, glycollic acid, or exfoliating scrubs one week prior. 
• Smoking, which can impair blood flow and delay healing. 

Following your treatment plan closely ensures the skin is in its best condition to tolerate laser skin resurfacing safely.

Post-Laser Aftercare and Infection Prevention

The post-laser recovery phase is critical for minimising side effects and preventing infection. After ablative CO2 laser or fractional laser treatment, the skin remains highly sensitive as it regenerates. Proper hygiene, moisture balance, and protection are essential. Key recommendations include:

• Keeping the area clean: Use only practitioner-approved cleansers to gently remove debris without disrupting healing tissue. 
• Preventing infection: Apply prescribed topical antibiotics or healing ointments as directed. 
• Moisturising regularly: Use a hydrating, fragrance-free emollient to prevent dryness and support new skin formation. 
• Sun protection: Avoid sun exposure entirely during recovery and use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily once healed. 
• Follow-up visits: Regular reviews with your laser surgeon help track healing and detect early signs of complications. 

Adhering to these guidelines ensures the safest and most successful outcome for your laser skin treatment, allowing the new skin to emerge healthy, smooth, and radiant.

Who Should Avoid CO2 Laser Resurfacing

While CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most effective laser skin treatments for improving wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation, it’s not suitable for everyone. 

Suitable patients for CO2 laser are typically those with fair to medium skin tones, good overall health, and no active infections or inflammatory conditions

Because the procedure uses powerful ablative laser energy to remove skin layers and stimulate collagen renewal, certain medical or dermatological conditions can heighten the risk of adverse effects.

Contraindications and Skin Conditions That Require Caution

Not every skin type or condition responds well to the intensity of ablative laser treatment or fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.

Certain underlying issues can increase the risk of complications such as prolonged inflammation, delayed healing, or unwanted pigment changes. Patients should avoid or postpone CO2 laser resurfacing if they have:

• Active skin infections or breakouts: Conditions like acne, cold sores (HSV), or bacterial infections can worsen post-laser and lead to scarring or pigmentary changes. 
• Chronic inflammatory skin disorders: Those with eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or seborrhoeic dermatitis should exercise caution, as the heat from the laser beam can exacerbate inflammation. 
• History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring: Because ablative CO2 lasers stimulate aggressive tissue regeneration, patients prone to abnormal scarring may experience raised or uneven healing. 
• Unstable pigmentation conditions: Melasma or previous post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can be triggered or worsened following fractional laser or ablative CO2 exposure. 
• Recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use: This medication interferes with wound healing and may increase the risk of scarring, laser treatments should be postponed for at least six months after discontinuation. 
• Autoimmune or connective tissue disorders: Conditions such as lupus or scleroderma can impair healing and elevate the risk of side effects from resurfacing lasers. 
• Uncontrolled diabetes or bleeding disorders: Both can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. 

In summary: Any active irritation, infection, or systemic health condition that disrupts the skin’s natural repair mechanism can amplify the complications of carbon dioxide laser treatment. A full medical evaluation is vital to determine whether laser surgery is safe for you.

Safer Alternatives for Sensitive or Darker Skin

For patients with sensitive skin or darker skin tones, it’s often safer to consider alternative skin rejuvenation methods that carry a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation. 

CO2 laser safety for darker skin depends largely on the type of technology used and the expertise of the practitioner, as melanin-rich skin requires careful calibration to prevent pigment changes.

The melanin-rich skin found in Fitzpatrick types IV–VI needs special care, as aggressive ablative CO2 or full-face laser treatments may lead to uneven pigmentation.

• Nonablative fractional laser (e.g., Er:YAG or thulium systems): These penetrate without fully removing the top layer of skin, stimulating collagen gently and safely. 
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or YAG laser: Suitable for tone correction and mild resurfacing in darker skin types. 
• Chemical peels: Mild glycolic or lactic acid peels exfoliate the surface while minimising risk of pigment changes. 
• Microdermabrasion or microneedling: These non-laser options improve texture and scars with less downtime and lower heat exposure. 

Patients with darker skin who still wish to undergo fractional CO2 laser resurfacing should seek clinics that specialise in treating darker tones and use fractional resurfacing technology designed for safe, precise energy delivery. This ensures even healing and reduced pigment alteration.

Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or laser specialist experienced in ethnic skin tones before committing to any resurfacing treatment.

When to Delay CO2 Laser Treatment Instead of Avoiding It Entirely

In some situations, delaying treatment rather than avoiding it completely is the best approach. Your skin’s condition at the time of your procedure has a significant impact on your healing and results. 

Performing ablative CO2 laser resurfacing on compromised or irritated skin increases the likelihood of complications of fractional CO2 laser such as infection, scarring, or prolonged redness. You may need to delay treatment if:

• Your skin is sunburned or recently tanned. 
• You have recently undergone other laser skin resurfacing or exfoliating treatments. 
• You are experiencing temporary inflammation, acne flare-ups, or irritation from active ingredients like retinoids. 
• You’ve recently had resurfacing around the mouth or other procedures that thin the skin. 
• You’re currently pregnant or breastfeeding, as hormonal fluctuations can affect pigmentation and wound healing. 

Taking time to stabilise your skin before undergoing CO2 resurfacing allows the treatment area to respond optimally, producing better, safer results. Preparing your skin with a pre-laser skin care routine, such as hydrating serums, pigment stabilisers, and broad-spectrum SPF, helps strengthen the barrier for smoother recovery.

Delaying treatment can be particularly beneficial for individuals planning a full-face carbon dioxide laser or ablative laser resurfacing session, where deeper tissue renewal requires an uncompromised skin foundation.

Expert Insight: How Safe Is CO2 Laser in 2025?

In 2025, advancements in fractional CO2 technology have significantly enhanced the safety of CO2 laser treatments. Recent innovations allow these lasers to precisely target specific skin areas while preserving the surrounding tissue. This precision not only helps to minimise damage but also effectively reduces side effects, leading to a more positive experience for patients.

Modern devices are designed to deliver more consistent results with shorter downtime, making post-treatment recovery quicker and more comfortable. The enhanced features enable dermatologists to tailor treatments to individual skin types and concerns, thereby improving efficacy and minimising risks.

Moreover, following key safety guidelines recommended by dermatologists plays an essential role in ensuring successful outcomes. 

This includes having comprehensive consultations before the procedure, understanding the pre-treatment preparations, and adhering to post-care instructions. 

By prioritising these practices, you can further enhance the safety and comfort of your CO2 laser journey. consistent aftercare, proper sun protection, and guidance from a qualified practitioner ensure your skin heals effectively while maintaining long-term results. 

Taking a thoughtful approach to preparation and recovery helps you achieve the best possible outcome from your treatment.

Before You Go…

Achieving lasting results from CO2 laser resurfacing isn’t just about the treatment session, it’s about how well you care for your skin in the weeks and months that follow. 

From choosing an experienced laser practitioner to adopting a dedicated post-treatment skin care routine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, each step directly impacts how effectively your skin heals and how long your rejuvenation results endure.

Consistency, protection, and expert guidance are the cornerstones of successful outcomes. By combining professional precision with mindful aftercare, you can help your skin recover beautifully and enjoy smoother, clearer, and more radiant results for years to come.

About the Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics, led by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, is a renowned centre for Medical and Aesthetic Laser Science. With its flagship clinic in King’s Cross and additional facilities across North London and Essex, the Institute continues to set the standard in evidence-based cosmetic dermatology and advanced laser resurfacing treatments.

Through cutting-edge research and patient-focused care, Dr. Paleco and his expert team deliver tailored laser skin rejuvenation procedures designed for precision, safety, and long-lasting confidence. 

Experience the next generation of skin transformation, book a consultation with Dr. Emanuel Paleco and discover how science-led technology can redefine your skin’s radiance.

‍