CO2 Laser Resurfacing Before and After: Results and Downtime

CO2 laser resurfacing before-and-after results typically show smoother, more even-toned skin with softened fine lines and improved texture — changes that continue to develop for weeks after the visible peeling has finished, as new collagen forms beneath the surface.

Downtime: What's Realistic

For standard fractional treatment, expect redness and visible peeling for around 5–7 days, with makeup typically avoidable during that window while skin recovers. Deeper or more intensive settings involve a longer, more involved downtime, which is discussed and planned for in advance based on your goals.

The Sun Protection Rule

Freshly resurfaced skin is significantly more sensitive to UV exposure for weeks to months afterward — strict sun protection isn't optional during this period, both to protect healing skin and to avoid unwanted pigment changes.

When Final Results Show

While surface redness settles within one to two weeks, ongoing collagen remodelling means textural improvement continues to develop for one to three months after treatment.

Learn more on the CO2 laser resurfacing procedure page.