CO2 laser

Years in the Idaho Sun Add Up on Your Skin

Living in the Treasure Valley means long summers on the river, ski days at altitude, and sunshine most of the year. It also means your skin has absorbed more UV exposure than most, and that shows up over time as fine lines, uneven texture, sun spots, and scarring that lotions and serums alone cannot smooth out.

Many patients tell us they have tried everything over the counter with little to show for it. If you are searching for something more targeted and want to understand what CO2 laser before and after results typically look like for someone with your skin type and concerns, a consultation at Treasure Valley Dermatology is a good place to start.

What CO2 Laser Resurfacing Is

CO2 laser resurfacing is a skin resurfacing treatment that uses focused laser energy to remove damaged outer layers of skin and stimulate new collagen production underneath.

• Uses carbon dioxide laser technology to precisely target damaged skin cells
• Can be performed as a fully ablative or fractional (partial) treatment depending on your goals
• Fractional CO2 treats a pattern of microscopic columns, leaving surrounding tissue intact to speed healing
• Commonly used to address fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage, uneven texture, and some pigmentation concerns
• Performed in-office by our board-certified dermatologists or trained clinical staff under physician supervision

What to Expect During Treatment

• Consultation first: Your provider will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and determine whether fractional or fully ablative CO2 is the right approach
• Numbing: A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to help minimize discomfort
• Session length: Most treatments take between 30 and 90 minutes depending on the area treated and depth of resurfacing
• Sensation: Patients often describe a warm, prickling feeling during the procedure, which is generally well-tolerated with numbing
• Downtime: Fractional treatments typically involve 5 to 7 days of redness and peeling; deeper treatments may require 1 to 2 weeks of recovery
• Aftercare: You will be given specific instructions for gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection during healing
• Follow-up: Many patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced weeks apart, particularly with fractional CO2

What Results Typically Look Like

Every patient heals differently, and results depend on your skin type, the depth of treatment, and how consistently you follow aftercare instructions.

• Initial redness and swelling generally subside within the first week
• Skin texture and tone often continue to improve gradually over the following 1 to 3 months as new collagen forms
• Many patients find visible improvement in fine lines, scarring, and overall skin texture with a single session, though some benefit from additional treatments for deeper concerns
• Results are typically gradual rather than immediate, and consistent sun protection afterward helps maintain your outcome
• During your consultation, our team can walk you through realistic examples of CO2 laser before and after outcomes similar to your skin concerns

Who May Be a Good Candidate

• Adults with visible sun damage, fine lines, or uneven texture from years of Idaho outdoor living
• Patients with acne scarring or surgical scars looking for improved skin texture
• Those with mild to moderate skin laxity who want a non-surgical option before considering more invasive procedures
• Patients who understand and are prepared for a period of downtime and diligent aftercare
• Adults in generally good skin health without active infections, certain autoimmune conditions, or recent isotretinoin use (to be discussed at consultation)
• Anyone wanting an honest, clinically grounded conversation about whether CO2 laser is the right fit compared to other resurfacing options

Frequently Asked Questions

How much downtime should I expect after CO2 laser resurfacing?

Downtime varies based on the depth of your treatment. Fractional CO2 typically involves 5 to 7 days of redness, swelling, and peeling, while deeper fully ablative treatments may require 1 to 2 weeks before you feel comfortable returning to normal activities.

Is CO2 laser treatment uncomfortable?

Topical numbing cream is applied before every session to help keep the procedure well-tolerated. Most patients describe a warm or prickling sensation rather than significant pain, and our team will check in with you throughout the treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your specific goals and the depth of resurfacing recommended. Some patients see meaningful improvement from a single deeper treatment, while others prefer a series of fractional sessions spaced several weeks apart for a more gradual approach.

Can I see CO2 laser before and after examples before deciding?

Yes. During your consultation, your provider can review examples relevant to your skin type and concerns so you have a realistic sense of what to expect. Every patient's skin responds differently, so this conversation is an important part of setting expectations before treatment.

Will I need to take time off work?

Many patients plan for at least a few days away from work or social obligations while redness and peeling resolve, especially after fractional or deeper treatments. Our team will give you a specific timeline based on the treatment plan chosen for your skin.

Why Choose Treasure Valley Dermatology

Treasure Valley Dermatology is led by Dr. Dustin Portela, DO, a board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and Idaho native, Dr. Kelsey Ferrell, DO, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and Dr. Ben Buttars, DO, a board-certified dermatologist. All three physicians bring surgical precision and clinical judgment to every skin resurfacing treatment they perform or supervise.

• Board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, all under one roof
• Full-service dermatology covering medical, surgical, and cosmetic care for the whole family
• Over 700 five-star reviews from patients who describe our team as "a breath of fresh air" who "genuinely care about their patients"
• Two convenient locations in Boise and Meridian, serving Eagle, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, Kuna, and surrounding communities
• On-site access to advanced cosmetic and medical technology, including SkinPen microneedling, Radiesse filler, CoolSculpting, and XTRAC excimer laser
• Clinical trial access for patients interested in emerging treatment options

Ready to Talk About CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

If years of Idaho sunshine have left your skin looking tired, textured, or uneven, our team can help you understand whether CO2 laser resurfacing fits your goals and your skin. Schedule a consultation at our Boise or Meridian location to discuss a care plan built around your skin, your concerns, and your timeline.

Book your appointment today at dermatologyboise.com/schedule-an-appointment.