Most patients choose laser skin resurfacing because the results last for several years, especially when you follow healthy skincare habits. CO2 laser is one of our go-to treatments for smoothing wrinkles, improving tone and texture, and minimizing scars and pigmentation, all while stimulating the production of new collagen for firmer, younger-looking skin.
If you’re wondering how long does CO2 laser resurfacing last—and what steps you can take to proactively preserve your radiant glow—I encourage you to keep reading for valuable takeaways and tips.
How Long Do CO2 Laser Results Last?
Most patients enjoy noticeable improvements for 5 to 10 years after a fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment. This longevity comes from the treatment’s unique ability to stimulate collagen remodeling deep within the skin, not just at the surface. New collagen production continues for several months after treatment, resulting in progressively smoother and firmer skin.
Of course, your skin will continue to age, and environmental and lifestyle factors will influence how long your results last. Patients who maintain healthy habits and use medical-grade skincare products often enjoy longer-lasting outcomes than those who don’t.
What Affects the Longevity of Your Results
Several key factors determine how long your CO2 laser resurfacing results last. These include:
- Treatment Depth and Type: A more aggressive full-field laser provides deeper rejuvenation but also requires more downtime. We use a fractional laser, which treats a percentage of the skin at a time. Fractional laser skin resurfacing recovery time is shorter than that of a fully ablative CO2 laser treatment.
- Age and Skin Quality: Younger skin with more natural collagen typically responds faster and maintains results longer.
- Sun Protection: UV exposure is one of the leading causes of premature skin aging. Consistent sunscreen use and sun avoidance protect your investment.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet, dehydration, and stress can all accelerate the skin-aging process.
- At-Home Skincare: A medical-grade skincare regimen, such as those from ZO® Skin Health, supports ongoing cell renewal and collagen production.
Combining Laser Resurfacing With the Reflection Lift
I frequently enhance results by combining CO2 laser resurfacing with the signature Reflection Lift, which you can see in our gallery of before and after photos. While the Reflection Lift rejuvenates facial contours by tightening underlying tissues, CO2 laser treatment refines the skin’s surface for a smoother, more radiant finish. Together, they create a comprehensive facial transformation that lifts and brightens without compromising a natural appearance.
How to Maintain Your Results
Your long-term outcome depends significantly on following post-treatment care instructions and good skincare habits. We emphasize a proactive approach to post-treatment skin health.
Follow all aftercare instructions carefully
Skin is red and sensitive as it heals immediately after CO2 laser resurfacing. Keeping skin clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun is essential for optimal recovery.
Use medical-grade skincare
Products such as ZO Skin Health formulations are designed to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain the smooth, radiant texture achieved through resurfacing. These physician-recommended products penetrate deeper and deliver measurable results compared to over-the-counter alternatives.
Protect against UV damage
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even when indoors, as UVA rays can penetrate windows. Wide-brimmed hats and mineral sunscreens add extra protection.
Schedule periodic maintenance treatments
Depending on your goals and skin type, touch-up sessions every few years can refresh your results and stimulate new collagen production. Non-ablative laser treatments or light chemical peels in between sessions can also help extend your glow.
How Often You Can Safely Repeat CO2 Laser Treatments
For most patients, a single comprehensive laser resurfacing treatment is all that’s needed. Less aggressive laser procedures can be safely repeated every 1 to 2 years, depending on your skin’s response and desired level of improvement.
Let’s Talk About Your Goals
My goal is to help you appear more rested, refreshed, and youthful. With the right combination of procedures, including laser skin resurfacing, that goal is not only possible—it’s often more attainable than you think. I invite you to learn more about the benefits of CO2 laser treatment, and take the next step by calling my office today at (615) 942-8016 or requesting a consultation using the online form.
Leave a Reply