CO₂ Facial Resurfacing

CO₂ resurfacing is the most intensive resurfacing treatment we offer. It sits at the top of the spectrum in terms of both results and recovery. Treatments like NouvaDERM, the fractionated laser facial, and IPL deliver meaningful improvement with little to no downtime, but none can match the depth of renewal that CO₂ resurfacing achieves. It's the right choice for patients with significant skin concerns (deeper wrinkles, acne scarring, advanced sun damage) who want the most transformative result possible and are prepared for the recovery involved.

CO₂ resurfacing involves a recovery period that patients should genuinely plan for. In the first few days post-treatment, the skin will appear red and may weep slightly as it heels. This is a normal part of the process. Most patients experience 7 to 14 days of visible recovery before they feel comfortable returning to normal social activities, though this varies based on the treatment settings used and individual healing. Redness may persist at a lower level for several weeks. Dr. Wilcox and her team will discuss what to expect at your consultation so you can plan accordingly.

A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment and additional comfort measures are used to ensure you're as comfortable as possible. During treatment you may feel warmth and pressure. Afterward, the skin will feel warm and tender (similar to a significant sunburn) for the first day or two.

Initial improvement is visible once the skin has healed, typically within 1 to 2 weeks. Results continue to develop significantly over the following 3 to 6 months as new collagen production progresses. Many patients describe their skin looking better at 6 months than it did at 6 weeks. The ongoing improvement is one of CO₂ resurfacing's most appreciated qualities.

CO₂ resurfacing is well-suited for patients with moderate to severe wrinkles, significant acne scarring, advanced sun damage, or overall skin quality concerns that haven't responded adequately to less intensive treatments. Ideal candidates are in generally good health, have realistic expectations about the recovery process, and are committed to sun protection before and after treatment. Patients with certain skin tones, active skin conditions, or recent use of certain medications may not be candidates. Dr. Wilcox will review this thoroughly at your consultation.

Preparation typically includes avoiding retinoids and exfoliating acids for a period before treatment, staying out of direct sun, and potentially a course of antiviral medication if you're prone to cold sores. Dr. Wilcox and her team will give you a complete preparation protocol at your consultation in advance of your treatment date.

Dr. Wilcox and her team will give you detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your specific treatment. Generally, this involves keeping the skin clean and moisturized, avoiding sun exposure entirely during healing, applying SPF diligently once healing allows, and avoiding makeup and active skincare ingredients until the skin has fully recovered. Following your aftercare instructions carefully is one of the most important factors in achieving the best possible result.

CO₂ resurfacing is comprehensive enough that it typically more or less stands on it's own as a treatment event rather than being combined with anything else same-day. However, it can integrate beautifully into a longer-term treatment plan that could include injectables, skincare regimens, non-laser skin rejuvenation treatments, and more. Dr. Wilcox and her team will help guide you towards a complete treatment plan that will get you to your goals.

Ready for your most significant skin transformation? Schedule a consultation at Sanger Avenue Medical Aesthetics in Waco and let's talk about what CO₂ resurfacing can do for your skin.