CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Deep skin renewal. Structural collagen restoration
When the skin needs more than maintenance
There comes a point when skincare, facials and lighter treatments are no longer enough.
Lines feel etched rather than faint.
Texture feels uneven in certain lighting.
Sun damage is layered.
The skin has lost some of its resilience.
CO2 laser resurfacing is designed for this stage.
It is not a surface polish.
It is a structural treatment that works at depth, removing damaged outer layers while stimulating meaningful collagen remodeling beneath.
When performed carefully, the goal is not dramatic change.
It is refinement that continues to look appropriate over time.
What CO2 Laser Resurfacing Can Address
CO2 laser resurfacing may improve:
Fine lines and deeper wrinkles
Perioral lines (“lip lines”)
Sun damage and uneven pigmentation
Rough or crepey texture
Acne scarring (mild to moderate)
Overall skin thickness and firmness
This treatment is particularly effective for areas that are difficult to correct with skincare alone, especially around the mouth and lower eyelids.
Why CO2— and Why Carefully
CO2 laser is an ablative laser, meaning it removes controlled layers of skin while delivering thermal energy to stimulate collagen remodeling.
It is one of the most powerful tools available for skin rejuvenation.
Because it is powerful, it must be used with precision.
My approach emphasizes:
Conservative, anatomically appropriate treatment depth
Respect for skin tone and healing capacity
Strategic feathering to avoid visible lines of demarcation
Avoiding overtreatment that can create long-term texture issues
Integrating resurfacing into an overall facial plan
CO2 laser should not make you look treated.
It should make your skin look healthier, thicker and more refined.
Dr. Janet Chao Pearl’s Surgical Perspective on Skin
Skin does not age in isolation.
As a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, I evaluate the skin within the full structure of the face — bone, fat, ligaments, muscle and skin thickness.
This matters.
Overtreating skin when laxity is the true issue leads to disappointment.
Under-treating advanced sun damage leads to frustration.
CO2 resurfacing is recommended only when it is the correct tool for your anatomy and stage of aging.
Restraint is expertise.
What to expect
CO2 laser resurfacing is performed in-office.
Depending on treatment depth and area:
Topical anesthesia may be used.
Local anesthesia may be added for comfort.
Larger or deeper treatments may involve additional supportive measures.
The process includes:
A detailed consultation and skin assessment
Clear discussion of downtime
Pre-treatment skin preparation
Customized laser settings
Close post-procedure follow-up
Recovery and healing
CO2 laser requires downtime. This is part of why it works.
You can expect:
Redness and swelling in the first several days
Peeling and crusting during early healing
Gradual smoothing as new skin regenerates
Pinkness that fades over several weeks
Continued collagen remodeling for several months
Sun protection becomes essential.
Skin continues to improve well beyond the initial healing phase.
I provide detailed aftercare instructions and remain closely involved during recovery.
Practical Details
Consultation: Begins through a secure online form followed by in-person evaluation.
Downtime: Typically 7–10 days of social downtime for moderate resurfacing; longer for deeper treatments.
Results: Continued improvement over 3–6 months as collagen remodels.
Longevity: Results are long-lasting, especially when paired with good skincare and sun protection.
CO2 laser resurfacing is not maintenance.
It is meaningful renewal.