CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing is one of the most effective treatments for improving wrinkles, sun
damage, uneven texture, enlarged pores, and acne scars. At Doe River Aesthetics in Elizabethton,
TN, we customize CO₂ laser settings to match your skin goals and your preferred
downtime—ranging from milder rejuvenation to more intensive resurfacing.
What Is Fractional CO₂ Laser Resurfacing?
Fractional CO₂ uses a carbon dioxide laser to create tiny, controlled treatment zones in the skin. This
resurfaces damaged skin and triggers deep collagen remodeling, helping your skin look smoother,
firmer, and more even-toned over time.
Because it’s fractional, surrounding skin remains intact, which helps support healing compared with
fully ablative resurfacing.
What Fractional CO₂ Can Treat:
Fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing can improve:
• Fine lines and wrinkles (including around the mouth and eyes)
• Sun damage and uneven tone
• Rough texture and dull skin
• Enlarged pores
• Acne scars and certain types of scarring
• Crepey-looking skin (face/neck/chest depending on skin and settings)
Treatment Areas: Face, Neck & Chest
Fractional CO₂ can be performed on the:
• Face (full face or targeted areas)
• Neck (selected candidates; conservative settings often recommended)
• Chest / décolleté (to improve sun damage and texture)
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your skin, discuss your priorities, and recommend the safest,
most effective approach for each area.
Customizable Treatment Strength + Downtime
At Doe River Aesthetics, fractional CO₂ treatments are fully customizable. We can adjust settings based on:
• Your skin concerns (wrinkles vs. scars vs. texture/tone)
• The treatment area (face vs. neck/chest)
• Your tolerance for downtime
• Your desired intensity of results
Typical downtime is 7–10 days, depending on treatment strength and the area treated.
What to Expect During Your Appointment:
Your visit typically includes:
• Skin cleansing and prep
• Topical numbing
• Fractional CO₂ treatment (time varies by area)
• Post-treatment soothing + detailed aftercare instructions
Most patients describe the sensation as heat and prickling during treatment, followed by a sunburn-
like feeling afterward.
Recovery & Healing Timeline (Typical)
Recovery varies by treatment depth, but commonly:
• Days 1–3: redness, swelling, warmth/tightness
• Days 3–7: bronzing, flaking, peeling as skin renews
• Days 7–10: most visible peeling resolves; residual redness may linger
• Weeks 3–12: collagen remodeling continues; texture and firmness keep improving
We’ll guide you on the best post-care routine to support healing and reduce the risk of irritation or pigment changes.
Results: When You’ll See Improvement?
You’ll usually notice a refreshed look after the initial healing period, with continued improvement over
the next several weeks.
• Early results: after peeling resolves (often ~7–10 days)
• Ongoing results: continue improving for 1–3 months as collagen rebuilds
Depending on your goals, you may benefit from a single treatment or a series.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Fractional CO₂ may be a great option if you want significant improvement in:
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Acne scarring and texture
• Sun damage and uneven tone
A consultation is important to review medical history and skin type, including history of
hyperpigmentation, keloid scarring, or cold sores.
Important Pre- and Post-Treatment Considerations:
To help you heal well and get the best results, we may recommend:
• Avoiding sun exposure before and after treatment
• Daily broad-spectrum SPF
• Pausing certain skincare actives before treatment (as directed)
• Antiviral medication if you have a history of cold sores
• A gentle, supportive post-laser skincare routine
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on your goals and the intensity of your session. Some
patients choose one stronger treatment, while others prefer a series of lighter treatments with less downtime.
Does fractional CO₂ help acne scars?
Yes—fractional CO₂ is one of the best options for improving
acne scars, particularly when combined with a customized treatment plan.
Can you treat the neck and chest?
Often, yes. These areas may require more conservative settings
and careful aftercare. We’ll confirm candidacy during your consultation.
How long will I be red?
Most patients have noticeable redness during the first 7–10 days, with mild
pinkness potentially lasting longer depending on treatment depth and skin sensitivity.
Fractional CO₂ Laser in Elizabethton, TN
If you’re looking for a treatment that can significantly improve wrinkles, sun damage, texture, and scarring, fractional CO₂ resurfacing may be the right fit.