Fine lines and deeper wrinkles can be softened or erased with fractional CO2. This treatment stimulates the body’s natural healing response which results in a renewed collagen production. Conditions such as sun damage, fine lines, deep wrinkles, enlarged pores, and scarring are addressed effectively with fractional CO2 treatments.
- Avoid facial peels within 6-8 weeks prior to the treatments.
- Avoid sun exposure for at least one week prior to treatment.
- Avoid using Retin-A or any retinol type product for 7 days prior to treatment. Accutane should be discontinued 12 months prior to treatment.
- If prone to cold sores, Valacyclovir (Valtrex) or Acyclovir should be taken for 2 to 3 days prior to treatment and continued for a full week.
- Pregnancy, nursing and cancer are contraindications to laser treatments.
- Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks after treatment.
- Follow the skin care program detailed out for you the day of treatment.
- Do not pick, rub or scratch the skin.
- Retinoids can be resumed 2 weeks after treatment.
Why Us?
Choose Essex Medspa for your Fractional CO2 treatment, we combine our expertise with state-of-the art technology, and deep dedication to your skin’s rejuvenation. Our skilled professionals tailor your treatment to meet your unique skin care needs.
We prioritize safety, efficacy, and your overall comfort while providing the best in skin care rejuvenation. When you choose Essex Mespa, you’re opting for a trusted partner on your journey to rejuvenated and youthful skin health.
How Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing Works
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing uses a carbon dioxide laser to create microscopic columns of thermal injury in the skin. These controlled micro-injuries stimulate your body’s natural healing response, which includes increased collagen production, skin remodeling, and the replacement of damaged skin cells with fresh, healthy tissue. The “fractional” approach treats only a portion of the skin surface per session, allowing faster healing and reduced downtime compared to fully ablative lasers.
At Essex MedSpa, we use advanced technology to precisely target specific areas of the skin while preserving surrounding tissue, encouraging faster recovery, and minimizing risks. The result is smoother, firmer, more evenly toned skin with long-lasting improvement in tone, texture, and clarity.
Conditions Fractional CO2 Can Improve
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is often recommended for patients who want more dramatic skin rejuvenation than what’s possible with chemical peels or light-based therapies. It’s especially effective for:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Deepened nasolabial folds
- Acne scars and surgical scars
- Age spots and sun damage
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin tone or rough texture
- Skin laxity on the face, neck, or chest
Because of its depth and precision, this treatment is ideal for individuals with more advanced signs of aging or those looking to correct noticeable skin irregularities.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before your procedure, your provider will apply a topical anesthetic to ensure comfort throughout the session. The laser is then applied to the treatment area, delivering short pulses of light that reach deep into the dermis. Most patients describe the sensation as warm and prickly but tolerable.
Treatment times vary by area, but typically last 30 to 60 minutes. After your session, the skin may appear red and feel sunburned for several days, followed by flaking or peeling. The full recovery process depends on the depth of the treatment and your skin’s healing response, but most patients can resume normal activities within 7–10 days.
Treatment Customization at Essex MedSpa
One of the key advantages of fractional CO2 laser technology is its adaptability. At Essex MedSpa, we tailor each session to your skin’s unique needs, adjusting the depth, density, and energy settings to match your concerns and downtime preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light refresh or a more aggressive resurfacing approach, our team will design a plan that aligns with your comfort level, lifestyle, and goals.
We also offer combination therapies, including pairing fractional CO2 with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or microneedling in a staged protocol for even more noticeable skin renewal.
Long-Term Skin Benefits and Maintenance
Fractional CO2 resurfacing delivers both immediate and ongoing improvements. Many patients notice brighter, smoother skin within 1–2 weeks, but collagen rebuilding continues for several months, resulting in firmer, more resilient skin over the long term.
While results are long-lasting, they are not immune to aging or sun exposure. Most patients benefit from a single session, with occasional maintenance treatments every 1–2 years to preserve results. Medical-grade skincare and daily SPF are essential for maximizing your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
After your laser skin resurfacing treatment, you will notice an improvement in skin texture, pigmentation, and fine lines after the treatment. The improvement is a gradual process with optimal results being obtained within two to three months, as collagen production increases.
Most patients report a pricking sensation during their laser treatment. A topical anesthetic is applied about 30 minutes prior to treatment to minimize the discomfort.
Because your new skin is delicate, you will be given detailed home care instructions by your skin care professional. After the treatment, it is extremely important to avoid long periods of sun exposure for approximately three months.
The number of CO2 laser treatments will vary depending on your skin condition. Most patients require 1 to 2 treatments. Each session is scheduled about four weeks apart.
You will experience some redness and swelling, but typically these side effects resolve in 3 to 7 days. In some cases, mild peeling may also occur.
