Advanced Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

What CO2 laser resurfacing treats

CO2 laser NYC clients come to us most often for:

• Acne scars
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun damage and dark spots
• Enlarged pores
• Rough or uneven texture

How fractional CO2 laser works

This laser removes very thin layers of damaged skin. The fractional version treats the skin in thousands of tiny columns and leaves the skin between them untouched.

That untouched skin speeds up healing. Underneath, the heat prompts your skin to produce new collagen for months after treatment, so texture and tone keep improving over time.

The Cleveland Clinic explains how laser resurfacing works and which skin concerns it treats.

What to expect on the day

Plan for about two hours for your appointment. Numbing cream goes on first and sits for up to an hour. The laser treatment itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area.

You will feel heat and prickling during treatment. Cooling helps, and we check in with you throughout.

CO2 laser downtime and recovery

Expect your skin to look red and swollen, like a strong sunburn, for the first few days.

• Days 1 to 3: redness, swelling and warmth.
• Days 2 to 5: the skin starts to peel and flake.
• Days 7 to 10: most clients are healed enough to return to normal routines and makeup.
• Weeks after: pinkness can linger for several weeks and fades gradually.

Sun protection is essential for months afterwards. We give you written aftercare and check in with you while you heal.

How many CO2 laser treatments you need

Many clients see a clear change after one session. Deeper acne scars often need two or three sessions, spaced a few months apart. We plan the number with you at your consultation.

Before your appointment

• Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids one week before.
• Avoid sun, tanning and self-tanner for at least two weeks before.
• Tell us if you get cold sores. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicine to take before treatment.
• Arrange to stay home for the first few days if you prefer not to be seen while healing.

Who should wait or skip this treatment

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active acne breakouts, a skin infection or an open wound on the face
• An active cold sore
• Isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past six months
• A history of keloid scars or poor healing
• A bleeding disorder
• A recent tan or sunburn

Tell us about any of these at your free consultation.

Why CO2 laser NYC clients come to Forest Hills

Many of our Google reviews mention this treatment. Clients tell us they value the care before and after the treatment as much as the result.

“I got my CO2 laser done here and I’m so happy with my results! The entire team was incredibly kind and professional. They checked in with me after my treatment to make sure I was healing well.”

Angelica Colon, Google review

“I was a bit nervous about getting a CO2 laser, but the team here did a phenomenal job.”

Ahmad Nasim Ahmadi, Google review

“Amazing results from CO2 laser. … hyperpigmentation significantly improved along with texture of skin.”

Brittany Muniz, Google review

Individual results vary.

CO2 laser FAQs