What are the effects of smoking on the healing process after CO2 laser resurfacing?

Smoking will affect the healing process after CO2 resurfacing. Smoking cigarettes decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches the skin. Oxygen is needed for the healing process. So, healing will be slower. Smoking may also increase the rate of infection and cause the skin to be more fragile than it should. This is not to mention that smoking increases wrinkles around the mouth - one of the main reasons to even have a CO2 resurfacing done. For my patients, I strongly urge them to stop smoking for some time before the CO2 resurfacing, and during the healing process. I have had two patients actually quit smoking completely after stopping for their procedures.

Cigarette smoking slow the healing process of laser resurfacing and put you at risk for infection and poor results. Keep in mind, Lasers like Co2 work best in combination with other treatments in order to improve the skin's texture and collagen. After Co2, I recommend adding photodynamic therapy, fraxel lasers, microneedling/prp and radiofrequency treatments. I also recommend Sculptra to rebuild collagen. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for your question madisonaiden. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an
outstanding treatment that can address multiple aspects of aging in a single
treatment. Smoking, in addition to its effects on the overall health, is very damaging to the skin. It is a cause of free radicals that damage the skin and lead to wrinkles and discolorations. If treating damaged skin with laser while smoking it is like fighting an uphill battle. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations.
Good luck!

Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of complications. It also ages the skin and intensifies the wrinkled appearance that the laser treatment is trying to improve.