Skin Rejuvenation with CO₂-Laser
Skin resurfacing with a fractional CO2 laser is one of the modern and gentle methods for skin rejuvenation, wrinkle treatment, and improving skin texture. This innovative procedure can also gently tighten sagging areas without the need for surgery. The CO2 laser is widely regarded today as the gold standard for aesthetic laser treatments.
What exactly is a fractional CO2 laser?
The fractional CO2 laser is a so-called ablative laser technique. This means that tissue is precisely and selectively removed to stimulate the skin’s repair and renewal processes. This leads to visible and noticeable skin rejuvenation and a lasting improvement in the skin’s appearance.
“Fractional” means that not the entire area is treated, but rather tiny, targeted points are addressed and ablated. Intact tissue remains between these points, allowing for faster healing and repair from these “bridges,” which results in reduced downtime. However, the rejuvenating results are visible across the entire area.
Advantages of CO2 laser treatment
- Gentle and minimally invasive
- Short treatment time
- Natural-looking results
- No foreign substances (very well tolerated)
- Low risk and minimal pain
- Can be applied even to difficult areas of the body
- Long-term to permanent results
Quick facts
Type of treatment: minimally invasive treatment (no surgery)
Treatment duration: approx. 15–45 minutes
Anesthesia: local anesthesia
Downtime: approx. 10–14 days
Results: minor immediate effect, final results after 2–3 months
Duration of effect: long-term to permanent anti-aging results
Special considerations: avoid direct sunlight for about 2–3 months (use sunscreen); 1–3 sessions are necessary for optimal results
Risks: low risk; mild redness, slight swelling, pigmentation changes (very rare)
Cost: starting at approx. € 350
What can the CO2 laser be used for?
Among the most popular applications are skin rejuvenation and wrinkle treatment. Furthermore, the CO2 laser can be used to refine large pores and treat sun-damaged skin. Both unsightly pigmentation and age spots, as well as pregnancy and stretch marks, can be improved with this procedure. Additionally, the CO2 laser can be used for scar treatment.
Which areas can be treated with the CO2 laser?
- Face
- Neck
- Deckolleté
- Hands
- Body (e.g., stretch marks on the abdomen or thighs)
Can the CO2 laser be used on all skin types?
Modern laser systems are constantly being refined and can now improve a wide range of skin concerns across various skin types. However, a professional examination and analysis are always necessary beforehand to minimize risks and ensure treatment success. Therefore, a detailed evaluation is conducted in our practice before every laser treatment to determine whether the method is suitable for your needs and your skin.
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How does CO2 laser treatment work?
The skin is first thoroughly cleansed and disinfected. The treatment area is then locally anesthetized using a special cream. During the treatment, you will wear laser safety goggles to protect your eyes.
The laser head is guided over the skin at predetermined points. The emitted pulses create tiny holes in the tissue. These micro-injuries are not dangerous, but they signal the body to kickstart its repair and regeneration processes, resulting in natural rejuvenation from the inside out. Over the next few months, increased collagen production occurs, which is responsible for the skin’s firmness and elasticity.
At the same time, the CO2 laser causes the connective tissue fibers deep within the skin to contract and tighten. This is also known as collagen shrinking and results in a gentle lifting effect.
After the treatment, soothing substances and sunscreen are applied to the skin.
Questions and Answers
No, treatment with the CO2 laser is virtually painless. Thanks to local anesthesia using an anesthetic cream or, if necessary, a local injection, the treatment is very well tolerated. You should not expect significant pain even after the treatment.
No special preparation is necessary for the CO2 laser. However, you should avoid taking blood-thinning medications for about a week before the treatment. Please discuss this with your doctor. After the laser treatment, you should avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight for about two to three months. You should also protect your skin with a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 50.
We recommend applying a healing cream to the skin after CO2 laser treatment (for about one week). Avoid products that could irritate or stress the skin for the time being. You can further support collagen production by using skincare products and cosmetics with highly concentrated active ingredients. We would be happy to advise you on this.
The number of recommended treatment sessions is always determined on an individual basis and depends, among other factors, on the condition of your skin, the indication, and the desired result. Based on our experience, one to three sessions are usually sufficient, though in some cases more sessions may be advisable to achieve optimal results. We can provide you with more detailed information during your personal consultation following a thorough analysis.
Immediately after treatment with the CO2 laser, you can resume your usual activities right away. Regular cooling can help support the healing process. Additionally, you can use medical-grade makeup if needed to cover any redness.
Depending on the intensity and size of the treatment area, scabbing and skin peeling may also occur. These reactions are normal and harmless. It may take ten to 14 days for them to heal completely.
The first effects can be seen shortly after the CO2 laser treatment. However, collagen formation and skin restructuring take some time. It can take about two to three months before the final result is visible. For scar treatment, it can take four to six months.
Experience shows that the results achieved are very long-lasting, as the skin’s appearance is improved at a deep level. The effects typically last for several years or are even permanent.
Every treatment and every patient has an individual risk profile. Thanks to our expertise, years of experience, and our high standards of safety and hygiene, most risks can be minimized.
Normal reactions following CO2 laser treatment include temporary redness, swelling, a slight feeling of tightness, and, in some cases, scabbing and peeling of the skin. Under no circumstances should the scabs be picked off, as this can lead to inflammation or infection. Very rare complications include pigmentation disorders (due to intense sun exposure) or scarring.
- Allergies
- Acute inflammation or injuries in the treatment area
- Acute or chronic skin conditions
- Acute or chronic infections
- Certain diseases or metabolic disorders (e.g., autoimmune diseases, diabetes)
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
The cost of CO2 laser treatment depends, among other factors, on the indication, the location, and the size of the treatment area. On average, costs start at 350 euros. During a no-obligation consultation, we will be happy to provide and explain the cost estimate for your treatment.
Can the CO2 laser be combined with other treatments?
Upon request, CO2 laser treatment can be combined with other minimally invasive procedures. Possible complementary options include microneedling or injection therapies such as hyaluronic acid, skin boosters, or PRP (Vampire Lift).
Every treatment plan is individually tailored in our practice and precisely customized to your needs. We would be happy to personally inform you about which combination treatments may be suitable for your specific needs.