Can CO2 laser help smooth fine line and texture under my eyes? (Photo)

Hi! Dr. Peterson here.
CO2 laser can definitely help with fine lines and texture under the eyes, but it needs to be approached carefully since the under-eye skin is very thin. In cases like yours where there’s a visible difference in texture between the two sides, fractional CO2 can help smooth and blend the transition. Sometimes lighter resurfacing options or other energy devices are also considered first, depending on how deep the texture change is. It’s something best assessed in person, but CO2 can be an effective tool when used conservatively in this delicate area.
Warmly,Dr. Erik Peterson

Hello! I’m Lauren, the aesthetic provider here at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. Yes, CO2 laser can help improve fine lines and uneven texture under the eyes, but it depends on your skin type and how deep the issue is. CO2 laser works by resurfacing the skin and boosting collagen, which can smooth out thickened or rough areas over time. However, the under-eye area is delicate, so it’s very important to see an experienced provider.

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello! I'm Landry - a medical aesthetician at Shah Facial Plastics - located in both Chicago area & Winnetka.

Thank you for sharing your concerns, and you explained everything very clearly. It’s possible that the thickened skin near one under-eye developed due to irritation or migration of the tretinoin from nearby areas like the cheeks or nasolabial folds. The skin under the eyes is very delicate and can react differently, even with careful application. This may have caused irritation or chronic low-grade inflammation that have triggered a mild thickening of the epidermis. A CO₂ laser can potentially help smooth out the epidermis; however, due to the thickening - it may be best to find a dermatologist who can take a full evaluation in person.

Yes — CO₂ laser resurfacing can help improve fine lines and skin texture under the eyes by stimulating new collagen and smoothing the surface. That said, the under-eye area is very delicate, so it’s important the treatment is done by an experienced dermatologist or laser specialist. Sometimes, a lighter setting or alternative treatments (like fractional lasers, microneedling, or chemical peels) may be recommended depending on your skin type and goals. Best next step: consult with a board-certified dermatologist to see what’s safest and most effective for you.