At The Laser Club Manchester, we are launching a lifechanging treatment in 2026, CO₂ laser resurfacing. CO₂ laser resurfacing is an ablative laser treatment that precisely removes micro-layers of skin to treat wrinkles, deep lines, acne scars, sun damage, uneven texture and some types of scarring. Modern devices usually deliver fractional CO₂ energy creating thousands of microscopic treatment columns while leaving surrounding tissue intact which speeds healing and lowers complication rates compared with older full-field ablative approaches. Fractional CO₂ is used both for cosmetic rejuvenation and for medical indications such as scar revision.
How the CO₂ laser works
- The CO₂ laser emits light at 10,600 nm, a wavelength strongly absorbed by water in skin.
- Absorption creates instant vaporisation of tissue in a controlled, columnar pattern
- Surrounding intact skin supplies a reservoir of healthy cells that accelerate healing.
- The controlled injury stimulates a wound-healing response: new collagen production, dermal remodelling and replacement of damaged epidermis which improves texture, tightness and scar depth over time.
Ideal candidates
- Want meaningful improvement in deep lines, texture, sun-damage or acne scars.
- Are medically healthy (or have stable chronic medical conditions under care).
- Have realistic expectations about downtime and gradual results.
- Are non-tanners/able to avoid tanning before and after treatment which reduces risk of pigment changes.
- Are aged commonly between 35–60 for photo-rejuvenation, though scar patients can be younger depending on needs. Recent expert consensus places middle-aged patients (40–60) often as ideal for fractional ablative CO₂ procedures.
Who may not be suitable
- Active skin infection e.g., herpes in the treatment area must be cleared/treated first.
- Active isotretinoin uses within recent months
- History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring as there is a higher risk of abnormal scarring.
- Uncontrolled systemic illness, poor wound healing e.g. uncontrolled diabetes, recent radiotherapy to the area.
- Darker Fitzpatrick skin types and those with melasma or a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation require careful assessment, fractional settings and pre/post protocols can reduce but not eliminate risk.
Types of CO₂ treatments
- Full-field CO₂ resurfacing: Treats the entire surface; deeper, more dramatic results but longer downtime and higher risk.
- Fractional ablative CO₂: Treats a fraction of the skin with microscopic zones — most clinics now favour this for a strong balance of efficacy and safety.
- Combined devices / hybrid approaches: Some modern platforms combine CO₂ with other wavelengths or thermal columns e.g., dual-wavelength or 1570nm combos to enhance outcomes or reduce downtime.
What can you expect from the treatment session. Your total treatment time will be between 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on area. Topical numbing cream is common to apply before your treatment. During the procedure you may feel heat, stinging or burning sensations your therapist will guide you through the entire treatment and make you comfortable. Immediately after your treatment your skin may look red, swollen and may show white “frosting” and crusting. The clinician will apply dressings/soothing ointments and give clear aftercare instructions.
Typical Recovery
Days 0-4
You can expect redness, swelling, oozing and crusting. Keep the treated area clean and lightly moisturised with recommended ointment. Dressings as instructed. Avoid makeup until re-epithelialisation we would typically advise waiting 7–14 days for facial treatments; for some fractional settings patients may use mineral makeup earlier.
Days 4–14
Crusting sloughs off; skin is pink and tender initially but begins to heal visibly. Continue gentle moisturising and avoid picking. Gentle cleansing only; avoid active ingredients retinoids, exfoliants until cleared by clinician. Avoid heavy exercise, swimming pools, saunas while skin is open to reduce infection risk.
Weeks 2–12
Redness fades to pink, then gradually to normal tone; collagen remodelling continues under the surface. Use high SPF 50+ and strict sun avoidance for at least 3 months as sun exposure during this time can cause permanent pigmentary changes.
When will I see results
- Immediate to short term, you will notice smoother skin surface as damaged epidermis sloughs away, some tightening is perceived early.
- Medium term 2–3 months, you will see a noticeable improvement in texture, fine lines and superficial scars as collagen forms.
- Long term 6–12 months this is where you will see the best overall result with deeper wrinkles and scar depth show further improvement as dermal remodelling matures.
How many sessions are needed? For moderate photo-ageing and texture: often 1 fractional CO₂ session gives substantial benefit; some patients opt for a second session at 3–6 months for further improvement. For deep acne scarring or severe photo-damage, multiple sessions spaced several months apart may be recommended. Treatment plans will always be tailored to the individual.
FAQ’S
Q: Is it painful?
A: There is discomfort during treatment; topical anaesthesia and other analgesic measures make it tolerable. Post-treatment feels like a bad sunburn.
Q: How long is downtime?
A: Typically, 7–14 days for visible crusting and re-epithelialisation; residual pinkness can last weeks to months depending on aggressiveness.
Q: Can all skin types be treated?
A: Yes, with caution. Darker skin requires tailored settings and sometimes alternative approaches because of pigment-change risk. Pre/post protocols reduce but don’t remove this risk.
Q: When can I wear makeup?
A: Usually after re-epithelialisation often around 10–14 days, but follow your clinician’s guidance.
I’m sold – how can I go ahead?
The best way to go ahead with us is to book a free consultation here and come and see us, ask all the questions you wish and if you want to go ahead then we take payment and plan/organise and book your first session in.
We are located just outside of Manchester City Centre
Or, want to chat? Call us on 01613271712
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