Could a CO2 laser treatment improve my skin in the long term?

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Question above (alternative suggestions are welcome too!).

Mahmood Siddique, DO · Answer

Short answer: It can help long-term by tightening texture and softening fine lines via collagen remodeling (peaks ~3–6 months, continues up to ~12), but based on your photos (mild pore prominence, a few small papules, slight cheek redness) fractional CO₂ is likely more aggressive than you need for the gain you’d see.
When CO₂ makes sense
Etched lines, acne scarring, significant sun damage.
Expect ~15–30% texture improvement per fractional session; maintenance every 1–3 years with diligent SPF.
Downsides/risks
5–10 days of downtime, risk of prolonged redness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (higher if you tan easily), rare scarring; antivirals if you get cold sores. Strict sun avoidance needed for 6+ weeks.
Better first-line options for your skin
Daily care (3–6 months):
Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 every morning.
Retinoid nightly (tretinoin 0.025–0.05% or adapalene) for texture/pores.
Salicylic acid 0.5–2% 2–4×/week (oil/pores).
Azelaic acid 15–20% for redness and small bumps.
Gentle cleanser + non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Office treatments with less downtime:
Fractional non-ablative 1550/1927 nm (e.g., 3–4 sessions) for texture and pores.
Microneedling RF (2–3 sessions) for pores and mild laxity.
Light chemical peels (salicylic or glycolic) or IPL if redness persists.
If you still choose CO₂
Ask for fractional, low-density settings, do a test spot, pre-treat for PIH if prone, and schedule during a low-sun period. Avoid full-field CO₂.
Red flags/avoid for now
Recent isotretinoin use, active infection, keloid tendency, pregnancy, or inability to avoid sun diligently.
Bottom line: You’ll likely get most of the long-term benefit you want from consistent skincare + lower-downtime devices; reserve fractional CO₂ for when you’re chasing deeper lines or scars or if you want a bigger one-and-done reset and accept the downtime/risks.

Could a CO2 laser treatment improve my skin in the long term?

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Could a CO2 laser treatment improve my skin in the long term?

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.