CO2 Laser Resurfacing in Des Moines, WA

Expect 7 to 14 days of downtime with fractional CO2 laser. Your skin will be red, swollen, and may weep or ooze for the first few days. Crusting and peeling follow as damaged skin separates. New skin emerges within one to two weeks, and residual redness fades gradually over one to three months. Erbium YAG recovery is shorter at 3 to 7 days with less intense redness and swelling.

CO2 laser penetrates deeper into the skin and produces more dramatic results, but it requires longer recovery (7 to 14 days). Erbium YAG is a gentler laser with shallower penetration and shorter downtime (3 to 7 days). CO2 is typically recommended for deeper wrinkles and more severe scarring, while Erbium YAG works well for patients who want improvement without extended recovery. Your provider will recommend the right option based on your skin concerns and lifestyle.

The cost of CO2 laser treatment varies based on the area being treated, the depth of resurfacing, and whether we use CO2 or Erbium YAG laser. We provide a detailed quote during your consultation after assessing your skin in person. Financing options are available to help make treatment accessible.

Many patients see significant improvement after a single fractional CO2 laser treatment. Some concerns, particularly deep acne scarring, may benefit from a second session 6 to 12 months later. Lighter maintenance treatments can be performed annually to preserve results and address new signs of aging.

Good candidates have moderate to severe wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, or textural concerns and can commit to the recovery period. Lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I through III) typically respond best with the lowest risk of side effects. Darker skin types require careful evaluation due to higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Patients with active acne, active infections, or recent isotretinoin use within six months are not candidates. An in-person consultation is the only way to determine candidacy.

Full recovery takes 7 to 14 days for most patients. The first 3 to 5 days involve the most visible healing, with redness, swelling, and peeling. By day 7 to 10, most patients can wear mineral makeup and return to social activities. Redness may persist for several weeks to months, gradually fading. Your provider will give you a detailed day-by-day recovery guide and aftercare products to support healing.

Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV through VI) carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with CO2 laser resurfacing. Your provider will carefully evaluate your skin type, medical history, and goals to determine if CO2 laser is appropriate or if an alternative treatment like RF microneedling or a series of chemical peels would deliver better results with less risk. An in-person consultation is essential for this assessment.