Laser skin resurfacing is a type of skincare treatment executed by a dermatologist or physician, which involves utilizing lasers to help enhance skin shade and appearance.

Depending on your specific requirements, your dermatologist may prescribe either ablative or non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers consist of carbon dioxide (CO2) or Erbium. CO2 fractional laser resurfacing procedures are utilized to eliminate scars, warts, and deep wrinkles. Erbium is utilized for refining lines and wrinkles, along with other serious skin complications. Both types of ablative lasers eliminate outer layers of the skin.

Who should get this treatment?

You might take this treatment if you have age, sun, or acne-related skin care complications that cannot be addressed with other over-the-counter (OTC) products.

Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing can be applied to address one or more of the following skin complications:


  • Age spots
  • Scars
  • Acne scars
  • Crow’s feet
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Sagging skin
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Expanded oil glands
  • Warts

Your normal skin tone can also, decide whether this is the finest cosmetic treatment for you or not. People with lighter skin tones are frequently good applicants as they carry a decreased risk of pigmentation.

This fractional laser treatment may not be good enough for people with active acne breakouts or imprudent sagging skin.

Most aestheticians also recommend getting this treatment done during fall or winter as there will be less sun exposure, which can harm fragile skin.

How much does it cost?

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is contemplated as a cosmetic treatment, so it’s not secured by medical insurance.

Costs tread between the types of lasers utilized. According to the average assessment, non-ablative fractional laser procedure cost about S$1400 per session, while fractional CO2 ablative procedures are about S$3200 per session.

Your final cost also relies on how many sessions you require, as well as the area being targeted. 

What to expect from the procedure

Laser CO2 skin resurfacing aims for the outer layer of your skin, while concurrently warming the lower surfaces in the dermis that significantly promote collagen production.

Ideally, refreshed collagen fibers will help generate new skin that is smoother in shade and firmer to the touch.

The treatment consists of the following steps:

·         Before laser fractional skin resurfacing, your skin has to be prepared. This includes a series of procedures done a few weeks before the actual treatment. The objective is to escalate your skin’s forbearance to professional procedures, which can also reduce the risk of side effects.

·         On the day of the treatment, your healthcare provider will apply a topical anesthetic to the targeted area, which will alleviate pain and make you more affluent during the treatment. If a large section of skin is being targeted, your healthcare provider may recommend a sedative or pain killers.

·         Next, the skin is cleaned to eliminate any excess oil, dirt, and bacteria.

·         Your healthcare provider starts the treatment, utilizing the chosen laser. The laser is progressed steadily around the appropriate area of skin.

Possible side effects and risks

Like other cosmetic treatments, CO2 laser skin resurfacing does pose the risk for side effects.

These include:

  • Burning
  • Bumps
  • Rash
  • Swelling
  • Infection
  • Pigmentation
  • Scars
  • Redness

By going through your doctor’s pre-care and post-care directives, you may mitigate your risk for these types of issues. 

Consuming acne medications, like isotretinoin, may escalate your risk for scars. You must consult with your dermatologist about any medical issues you have, as well as all medicines you take — including the non-prescribed OTCs.