Treatments
CO2 Laser Resurfacing Treatment
What is CO2 laser skin resurfacing?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is an advanced treatment used to improve wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin texture and sun damage. It works by stimulating collagen production and renewing the skin from within.
At rtwskin in Tunbridge Wells, we use advanced CO2 laser platform Lumenis ULTRApulse® Alpha, allowing us to tailor treatment depth and intensity for more precise, personalised results and optimal skin rejuvenation.
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Treatment Pricing
LUMENIS Ultra Pulse Alpha CO2 Laser Resurfacing
CO2 Laser Resurfacing – bespoke pricing depending on treatment areafrom £350
Wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation, pores, skin laxity, ageing signs.
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing using the Lumenis ULTRApulse Alpha platform.
Topical numbing cream is applied before the treatment to minimise discomfort.
Typically 30–90 minutes depending on the area and depth of resurfacing
Mild redness, swelling, and peeling are common. Rare risks include infection, pigmentation changes, or prolonged sensitivity.
Recovery time varies from 3–7 days for lighter treatments and up to 10–14 days for deeper resurfacing.
Improvements are noticeable immediately, with continued collagen regeneration and visible benefits for up to 6–12 months or longer.
None required – laser-based treatment only.
Clients receive a tailored skincare regimen to aid healing, reduce irritation, and maintain results. High-SPF sun protection is strongly advised post-treatment.
How the treatment works
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During fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, the laser creates tiny channels in the skin that are finer than a human hair. These micro-injuries stimulate the body to repair itself by generating new collagen and pushing out damaged skin cells. This process renews the top layer of the skin (epidermis) and tightens the deeper layer (dermis).
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The procedure is minimally uncomfortable, and recovery is much quicker than with traditional resurfacing treatments. We provide patients with a topical anesthetic to ensure a more comfortable treatment experience, minimising pain and stress. However, patients may feel a slight stinging sensation during the procedure.
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Once the treatment is complete and protective antibacterial cream has been applied to reduce the risk of infection, patients are free to drive home. The immediate aftereffect typically includes mild discomfort for up to an hour, similar to the sensation of severe sunburn.
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Results from CO2 fractional resurfacing laser treatment are visible immediately as the CO2 laser targets and evaporates water in the skin, causing it to contract. The skin tightening effect becomes more apparent once the skin peels away. Over the next few months, new collagen stimulates healthier, younger-looking skin, with continued improvement for up to six months as the skin becomes firmer from collagen regeneration.
Benefits of CO2 laser resurfacing treatment
- CO2 laser resurfacing improves both the surface and deeper layers of the skin, making it one of the most effective treatments for overall skin rejuvenation.
- Key benefits include:
- Reduction in fine lines and deeper wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth
- Improvement in acne scars and uneven skin texture
- Reduction in pigmentation and sun damage
- Smoother skin with refined pores
- Firmer, tighter skin through collagen stimulation
- Continued improvement over several months following treatment
At rtwskin, treatments are tailored to your skin condition and desired outcome. Using advanced CO2 laser platform ULTRApulse® Alpha, we can adjust treatment depth and intensity to achieve safe, precise and effective results for both mild and more advanced skin concerns.
What is the recovery time after CO2 laser resurfacing?
Recovery time varies depending on the depth and intensity of the treatment.
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Day 1–2
Skin feels warm and tight, similar to sunburn. Redness and mild swelling are common.
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Day 3–5
Skin begins to peel as damaged cells are replaced.
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Day 5–7
Most surface healing is complete, although redness may remain.
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Week 2–4
Skin tone continues to improve and redness gradually fades.
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1–3 months
Collagen production increases and skin becomes firmer.
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3–6 months
Final results become fully visible.
How many treatments are required?
The number of sessions needed for CO2 laser resurfacing depends on the severity of wrinkles, skin laxity, scarring or sun damage, as well as your individual recovery goals.
Some patients notice visible improvement after a single session, while deeper wrinkles, acne scarring or more advanced skin concerns may require a course of treatments.
Treatment intensity can be adjusted to balance results and recovery time. Using advanced Lumenis CO2 laser technology at rtwskin, we can tailor both lighter and deeper resurfacing approaches depending on your skin needs.
Deeper treatments typically achieve more significant results but involve longer downtime, while lighter treatments may require multiple sessions with shorter recovery.
Your personalised treatment plan will be discussed during consultation.
Long-term results and maintenance
Advanced CO2 laser resurfacing at rtwskin delivers controlled energy into the skin using tailored treatment settings, allowing precise adjustment of treatment depth and intensity.
This controlled approach removes damaged surface layers while stimulating deeper collagen production, improving skin texture, tone and firmness. By combining superficial and deeper resurfacing options, treatments can be adapted to achieve optimal results with an appropriate balance of effectiveness and recovery time.
The effects of CO2 laser resurfacing are long-lasting, particularly with proper aftercare. However, the longevity of results depends on factors such as skincare, sun protection, general health, smoking and lifestyle habits.
We recommend using a tailored skincare programme and daily high SPF sun protection to maintain your results. With proper care, the benefits of CO2 laser resurfacing can last for many years, making it one of the most reliable treatments for skin rejuvenation.
What is the difference between light and deep CO2 laser resurfacing?
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СO2 laser resurfacing can be precisely adjusted depending on your skin condition, treatment goals and acceptable downtime.
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Light treatment
Suitable for mild concerns such as fine lines, uneven texture and early signs of sun damage
Minimal downtime with gradual, subtle improvement in skin tone and texture
- Medium treatment
Used for moderate wrinkles, pigmentation and acne scarring
Balanced approach between visible results and manageable recovery time - Deep treatment
Recommended for deeper wrinkles, advanced sun damage and more significant scarring
More intensive collagen stimulation and skin renewal with longer recovery but more noticeable results
Why choose rtwskin?
At rtwskin, CO₂ laser resurfacing begins with a detailed assessment of your skin, concerns and treatment goals. Using the Lumenis UltraPulse Alpha platform, our medical practitioners can adjust the treatment mode, depth and intensity to create an individual treatment plan.
CO₂ laser resurfacing may be considered for concerns including lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, uneven skin texture and sun damage. Your practitioner will explain which approach may be suitable for you, what improvement may be realistic and what recovery to expect.
Patients choose rtwskin for:
- A personalised medical assessment and treatment plan
- Advanced CO₂ laser technology with superficial and deeper resurfacing options
- Treatment delivered by experienced medical practitioners
- Clear guidance on preparation, recovery and aftercare
- Ongoing clinical support throughout the treatment journey
How much does CO₂ laser resurfacing cost?
The price depends on the treatment area and the individual treatment plan recommended following your assessment. The proposed treatment depth, expected recovery and whether any further treatment may be appropriate will be discussed during your consultation.
You will receive clear pricing information before deciding whether to proceed.
CO₂ laser resurfacing is available at our medically led clinic in Tunbridge Wells, welcoming patients from across Kent and surrounding areas.
What results can I expect?
CO₂ laser resurfacing may help improve skin texture, lines, sun damage and certain types of scarring. The degree of improvement and the time needed for results to develop vary according to your skin condition, the concern being treated, treatment depth and individual healing response.
During your consultation, your practitioner will explain what outcome may be realistic for you and how your results should be reviewed.
See what our clients say
Don’t take our word for it… read some of the feedback received from clients
across the UK
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Excellent treatment for a range of facial problems including dark patches, red patches, broken facial blood vessels, and nodules caused by overactive sebaceous glands. The clinic is fully recommended. DC
David Cummings
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I trust that I would not get a better job done anywhere else! Even In London.
I feel very relaxed when I am having my treatment done, they are very approachable.M J F
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The staff here are warm and freindly , the doctors are very in the know and felt completely at ease the after care is fantastic can not fault them thank you rtw skin
Tanya Hammond
Before / after
CO2 Resurfacing treatment in action
Learn more about CO2 Resurfacing treatment
We’ve got you covered, as we have finance options available for people with varying circumstances. rtwskin believes that you shouldn’t have to pinch your pockets to be able to purchase our products. You can pay in affordable monthly instalments to better suit your needs and budget.
To help you purchase from rtwskin, we have partnered with Kandoo, a regulated credit broker to offer all our customers a range of highly flexible finance options. Kandoo is a comparison service that searches to find you the best Personal Loan option that’s right for you.
When do I see result?
You will see skin tightening and shrinking immediately after the treatment but the quality of the skin continues to improve over the coming months. Therefore optimum/final results of the treatment are most apparent around 3–6 months after the procedure. It must be noted that although you will see results after your first treatment, normally you will require a course of 3 – 5 treatments for optimal effect.
Can I have Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing treatment in combination with other cosmetic treatments?
CO2 Laser Resurfacing can be combined with other treatments although we cannot do other treatments in the same area(s) treated on the same day. We advise you to wait for full recovery of the skin. We may recommend Botox treatment 2 weeks prior to the laser treatment as studies have shown that this may enhance the effect on wrinkles caused by movement. We will then usually wait 2 weeks before we would offer dermal filler treatment if this is requested.
Does CO2 laser resurfacing hurt?
The treatment takes about an hour for a full face procedure and feels like a “pins and needles” sensation. Local anaesthetic cream will be applied to your skin an hour prior to the treatment and a strong stream of cold air (Zimmer cooler) will be directed on the area during the treatment to make it more comfortable. The discomfort ranges from mild to moderate. Your complete procedure will take about 2 ½ hours in total.
During the first 24 hours after treatment, you may feel a sensation similar to that of severe sunburn. The healing process usually takes 3-14 days. There will be a period of 4-6 weeks after that when your skin may continue to be slightly pink. During this period, your skin will become smoother and looks less blotchy. As the colour returns to normal, you will see a fewer lines, and tighter skin with a youthful glow.
How long does CO2 laser resurfacing last?
Results can last for several years depending on your skin condition, skincare routine and sun protection. Maintenance treatments may be recommended.
What can CO2 laser resurfacing treat?
It can treat wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, sun damage and uneven skin texture, with treatment tailored to your specific concerns.
Is CO2 laser resurfacing safe?
Yes, when performed by experienced medical practitioners using appropriate settings for your skin type and treatment depth.
How long does redness last after CO2 laser?
Redness can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on how deep the treatment is and your individual healing response.
Can CO2 laser remove deep wrinkles?
CO2 laser resurfacing can significantly improve deep wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.
Considering CO₂ laser resurfacing?
CO₂ laser resurfacing is available at our clinic in Tunbridge Wells. During your consultation, we will assess your skin, discuss your concerns and explain whether the treatment is suitable for you, including the proposed approach, expected recovery and likely treatment plan.
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