How Long Do CO2 Laser Results Last?
Considering CO2 laser resurfacing and wondering how long the results last? At Berman Skin Institute, our board-certified team uses UltraPulse CO2 to improve skin texture, soften lines and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Plus, our team guides you through the aftercare to ensure long-lasting results.
How Long Do CO2 Laser Resurfacing Results Last?
CO2 laser resurfacing results can be permanent, but they also depend on several factors. With daily sun protection and consistent skincare, many patients enjoy smoother, more even skin for several years, while the effects of normal aging continue. Scar improvements are typically long-lasting, and overall texture improvement can be maintained with healthy skincare habits.
Factors influencing treatment longevity include:
- Starting point before treatment: Your skin type and the extent of sun damage, lines or scars affect the duration of your results.
- Treatment plan: Deeper ablative treatments can be more durable than lighter ones.
- Coverage or area: Areas subject to less movement or with thicker skin may have longer-lasting results compared to areas like the eyes or mouth, which experience more movement, such as blinking and talking.
- Sun exposure: Daily SPF 30+ is essential to maintaining your results, especially in areas with high UV exposure.
- Lifestyle and aftercare: No smoking, gentle wound care, provider-approved skincare and overall healthy habits can prolong results.
- Maintenance: Optional touch-ups or complementary treatments may be needed every 12 to 24 months.
Importance of Collagen Rebuilding Post-Treatment
CO2 results endure because collagen rebuilding continues for months. Neocollagenesis and dermal remodeling support firmer and smoother skin well beyond the initial healing period — another reason strict sun protection and a consistent, provider-approved skincare routine help prolong the outcomes.
CO2 Laser Fundamentals
CO2 laser resurfacing precisely removes damaged surface skin and gently heats the dermis to stimulate the production of fresh collagen and elastin. We tailor our approach to energy, depth, and coverage — from light fractional passes for targeted areas to deeper, single-session treatments for comprehensive change — based on your goals and downtime.
Key benefits of CO2 laser skin resurfacing include:
- Smoothing uneven texture and refining pores.
- Softening fine lines and etched wrinkles around the eyes and mouth.
- Improving acne and surgical scars via collagen remodeling.
- Evening tone and reducing sun damage and discoloration.
- Customizable downtime options, such as series or one-and-done reset.
How Long After a CO2 Laser Treatment Will I See Results?
Most patients notice early smoothing within one to two weeks as new skin forms. Visible improvements build over weeks two through four as redness fades. Your best results typically evolve over three to six months as collagen remodels — and may continue maturing for up to 12 months. The timeline varies by treatment depth, coverage, area treated, baseline skin condition and aftercare.
Treatment Frequency: How Many CO2 Laser Treatments Are Needed?
The number of CO2 laser treatments needed depends on goals and downtime. A single deeper session can address advanced concerns and will require a longer downtime, while a short series (often two to four sessions) of lighter fractional passes offers gradual improvement with minimal downtime. We’ll tailor your plan to your specific goals.
Why Trust Berman Skin Institute?
Our board-certified dermatology team serves Northern California with one of the largest laser centers, featuring over 33 devices, including the UltraPulse CO2. We deliver research-driven care with early access to innovations and a patient-centric model that offers direct provider contact and 24/7 phone support. With nearly three decades of experience and natural-looking results, you’re in expert hands at Berman Skin Institute.
Embark on Your Journey to Rejuvenated Skin
Ready to start your journey to smoother, younger-looking skin? Schedule an appointment with Berman Skin Institute to receive a tailored plan.
