Skin Resurfacing Treatment Sydney | CMC | Cosmetic Medical Clinic
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CO2 Fractional Skin Resurfacing

CO2 fractional skin resurfacing is a treatment used to improve the surface quality of the skin. The laser removes thin layers of damaged skin, allowing new skin to form during the healing process.

As the skin heals, textural irregularities and superficial wrinkles may gradually improve.

CO2 fractional skin resurfacing is commonly performed to address cosmetic skin concerns such as acne scarring, uneven skin texture and fine wrinkles. Suitability for treatment is determined during consultation following clinical assessment of the skin.

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What Happens During the Treatment?

The following overview explains what typically happens during CO2 Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment.

  • A topical anaesthetic cream is applied before treatment to improve comfort during the procedure
  • The CO2 Fractional Laser creates microscopic injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing response and renewal
  • Air cooling is used during and after the treatment to reduce the heat sensation and improve comfort
  • Healing Light Therapy may be used immediately after treatment to support the skin’s natural recovery process
  • Skin recovery and peeling typically occurs over approximately 7 to 10 days, depending on the treatment intensity and individual skin response.

Downtime and Recovery

CO2 fractional skin resurfacing involves a recovery period while the skin heals. Most individuals experience redness, swelling and skin peeling for approximately 7 to 10 days, depending on treatment intensity and individual skin response.

Because this treatment involves downtime, it is important to plan ahead. Work schedules, social commitments and daily activities may need to be adjusted during the healing period.

A consultation is recommended to discuss the recovery process, and whether the treatment timing is suitable for your schedule and lifestyle.

Post-Treatment Care

The outcome of CO2 fractional skin resurfacing depends not only on the treatment itself but also on appropriate care during the healing period.

At Cosmetic Medical Clinic, strong emphasis is placed on post-treatment care. Clients are guided on how to look after their skin following treatment, with practical instructions, reminders and follow-up support provided during the recovery phase.

Because proper skin care during healing can influence the final result, detailed post-treatment instructions are discussed during consultation and provided after treatment.

Benefits of CO2 Fractional Skin Resurfacing

CO2 fractional skin resurfacing may help improve several cosmetic skin concerns including:

  • Improving the appearance of acne scars
  • Smoothing uneven skin texture
  • Softening the appearance of fine wrinkles
  • Improving overall skin tone and clarity
  • Helping cleanse pores and refresh the skin surface
FSR_before_after
before-and-after-pigmentation3

Additional Treatment Options After CO2 Fractional Skin Resurfacing

CO2 fractional skin resurfacing is designed to improve skin texture, reduce scarring, and remove certain blemishes by resurfacing the skin and stimulating new collagen formation. As the skin settles after treatment, many people notice visible improvement in skin smoothness and overall skin quality.

Depending on the original skin concern, some individuals may benefit from additional laser treatments to further refine their skin results after CO2 resurfacing.

CoolView Vascular Laser

For individuals whose main concern is scarring or uneven skin texture, a CoolView vascular laser treatment may be considered approximately two weeks after CO2 fractional skin resurfacing.

CoolView laser treatment may help continue refining skin texture and improving the appearance of scars after CO2 resurfacing. By targeting superficial blood vessels that contribute to redness and supporting clearer pores, the skin may appear cleaner and smoother as overall skin texture continues to improve.

Many people notice their skin appears cleaner and smoother as pores become clearer and less congested, which may also make them appear smaller.

CoolView vascular laser treatment is non-invasive and typically involves no downtime. Most individuals are able to return to their normal daily activities after the treatment while continuing to refine skin texture and the appearance of scarring following CO2 fractional skin resurfacing.

Q-Switch Laser

For individuals whose primary concern is pigmentation, continued treatment with Q-Switch laser may be recommended to further improve uneven skin tone and pigmentation after CO2 resurfacing.

Q-Switch laser treatment targets pigment in the skin and gradually improves the appearance of pigmentation and uneven skin tone. A series of treatments may be recommended to progressively refine skin tone and support clearer and more even-looking skin.

Q-Switch laser treatment is also non-invasive and typically involves no downtime. The treatment targets pigment within the skin and most individuals can return to their usual daily activities immediately after the treatment while gradually improving uneven skin tone and pigmentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

A topical anaesthetic cream is applied before treatment to improve comfort. Cooling measures may also be used during the treatment to minimise discomfort. Most individuals tolerate the treatment well, although the level of pain sensation may vary depending on treatment intensity and individual skin sensitivity.

After CO2 fractional skin resurfacing, the treated skin needs time to heal. Direct sun exposure should be avoided during the recovery period, especially while the skin is red and peeling.

When the scabs have fallen off and new skin has formed, the skin is still very sensitive and more vulnerable to pigmentation or sun damage. For this reason, it is important to minimise sun exposure while the skin continues to recover.

Specific guidance will be discussed during consultation and provided after treatment.

During the early healing phase, it is generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and activities that may cause excessive heat or sweating. Activities that significantly increase blood circulation may cause the treated skin to become redder, and the redness may last longer. Physical exertion may also irritate the treated skin and interfere with the healing process. 

Light daily activities can usually be resumed gradually as the skin begins to recover. Specific guidance regarding exercise and activity levels will be discussed during consultation and after treatment.

The typical downtime after CO2 fractional skin resurfacing is approximately 7 to 10 days. During this time, redness, swelling and skin peeling may occur as the skin heals.

Because the treatment involves a recovery period, it is important to plan time away from work, exercise and social commitments while the skin recovers. Detailed guidance regarding the recovery process will be discussed during consultation and provided after treatment.

Yes, one of the main benefits of CO2 fractional skin resurfacing treatment is that it is safe for all skin types and colours.

The cost of CO2 fractional skin resurfacing depends on several factors, including the treatment intensity, the size of the area being treated, and the individual’s skin condition. 

For example, light treatment for facial skin rejuvenation typically cost around $1680. The cost will vary greatly depending on your skin type and condition, the severity of the concern, the span of the areas to be treated. 

Please note that an estimate cost cannot be provided via telephone or email because treatment plans vary between individuals. An accurate quotation can only be provided after clinical assessment during consultation.

 

Why Choose Us?

Experience & Professional Standards

With decades of experience in laser-based skin treatments, our clinic is committed to maintaining high professional standards across all available services. Every consultation and treatment is approached with attention to detail, and respect for individual differences.

Individualised Consultation Approach

All treatments begin with a thorough consultation to assess suitability, discuss expectations, and determine the appropriate approach. This ensures recommendations are based on individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all model.

Transparency & Ongoing Support

We prioritise clear communication, realistic expectations, and transparency throughout the treatment process. Our focus is on providing consistent, professional support so clients feel informed and confident in their decisions.

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