Laser skin resurfacing can do wonders for your skin, from smoothing fine lines and wrinkles to fading scars and sun damage. But here’s the truth: it’s not a quick, easy facial. It’s a powerful medical procedure that delivers incredible results when done by the right hands.
Before you book your appointment, it’s important to know exactly what to expect. Here are five things every patient should know before saying yes to CO₂ laser resurfacing.
1. Laser skin resurfacing is a medical procedure, not a spa treatment.
CO₂ laser resurfacing is a true medical procedure performed by a highly trained provider. The laser works by delivering controlled beams of light that precisely remove layers of damaged skin while stimulating new collagen production underneath. When done by right, the result is smoother, firmer, more even-toned skin that continues to improve over time.
It’s most effective for treating deep wrinkles, acne scars, texture irregularities, sun damage, and laxity. CO₂ lasers work at a deeper level, targeting the very structures in your skin responsible for renewal and elasticity.
2. You will have real downtime.
Most patients experience redness, swelling, and peeling for about 7 to 10 days after treatment. Your skin will feel warm, tight, and a bit sensitive, similar to a sunburn at first. During this time, it’s essential to follow your provider’s post-care instructions closely. That usually means keeping your skin hydrated with healing ointments, avoiding makeup, and steering clear of direct sun exposure while the new skin forms.
It’s completely normal to worry about what your skin will look like during recovery. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about laser skin resurfacing recovery:
How long does it take to heal?
Most patients need about 7–10 days of visible recovery. Your skin will feel warm and tight at first, then peel as new skin forms. Pinkness can linger for a few weeks as collagen rebuilds. Full recovery — when your skin tone evens out — usually takes one to three months.
When can I wear makeup again?
Wait until your skin has fully healed, usually around day 10–14. Applying makeup too soon can irritate fresh skin. Once cleared by your provider, start with mineral-based makeup and gentle products only.
Is redness normal after a few weeks?
Yes. Pinkness is part of the healing process and shows your skin is still renewing. It gradually fades over several weeks. Moisturizing and sun protection help it settle faster.
When can I go back to work or social events?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to normal activities after a week. If you have an event, schedule your laser at least a month in advance to allow full recovery and color balance.
How should I care for my skin during recovery?
Keep your skin clean, hydrated, and protected. Use only the gentle cleanser and ointment your provider recommends. Avoid exfoliants, actives, and direct sun until fully healed — and don’t skip sunscreen once your skin re-epithelializes.
When will I see my final results?
You’ll see smoother, brighter skin after two weeks, but the best results appear over 3–6 months as collagen continues to rebuild. With good skincare and daily SPF, your glow can last for years.
3. Who performs your treatment matters more than the laser itself.
But because laser skin resurfacing is a powerful, medical-grade procedure, it requires the expertise of a physician who understands skin anatomy and laser science like Dr. Zimmerman. The same energy that can dramatically rejuvenate the skin also carries risks if not handled correctly. This isn’t a treatment you want to get “on special” or in a non-medical setting. It should always be performed by an experienced, board-certified doctor using advanced safety protocols.
4. Not everyone is a good candidate.
The best candidates for laser skin resurfacing treatments are people with lighter to medium skin tones who want to treat wrinkles, texture irregularities, sun damage, or acne scars and are ready to commit to real downtime and aftercare. It’s also ideal for patients who don’t have active breakouts or certain medical conditions that affect healing.
If you have darker skin, active acne, a history of pigmentation issues, or you’ve recently used medications like Accutane, Dr. Zimmerman may recommend a different approach. That doesn’t mean you can’t get great results. It just means your skin may respond better to a gentler laser or a non-ablative option, like Erbium or RF microneedling.
The most important step is consultation. During your visit, Dr. Zimmerman will evaluate your skin type, review your medical history, and help determine if laser resurfacing is the safest and most effective choice for you. If it’s not, he’ll recommend the right alternative to achieve the same rejuvenating results without compromising your skin health.
5. Results take time, and proper aftercare is everything.
Your aftercare determines how well you heal. Keep your skin clean, moisturized, and protected. Use only what your provider recommends, avoid makeup until cleared, and never skip sunscreen once the skin has closed.
Stay gentle with your skin and avoid harsh activities or scrubs until it’s fully recovered. Focus on hydration and protection. That’s what keeps your new skin healthy and glowing.
Case 1: Male in his 60's came to Dr Zimmerman wanting to remove the elevated lesions on his neck. Dr. Z applied CO2 laser to shave the lesions down to the normal surrounding skin. The patient healed well and is happy with his results.
Case 2: Female in her late 50s came to Dr. Zimmerman hoping to smooth deep wrinkles and even her skin tone. He performed Renuvion Helium Plasma Facial Resurfacing to tighten, brighten, and refresh her complexion, leaving her skin noticeably smoother and more radiant!
Case: 3 Male in his late 50s came to Dr. Zimmerman to treat age spots on the backs of his hands. After reviewing his options, he chose a Photofractional series (a combination of IPL and ResurFX). His hands look noticeably clearer, and he’s thrilled with the results.
Book A Consultation With a Laser Skin Resurfacing Expert in Las Vegas.
The difference between a good result and an exceptional one comes down to expertise. As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon with years of laser experience, Dr. Zimmerman approaches every treatment with a customized plan tailored to you.
Call us to schedule a consultation today. We serve patients in and around Las Vegas, including Henderson, Summerlin, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, and the surrounding communities of Clark County.
