Skin has three main layers: the epidermis on the surface, the dermis beneath it, and a layer of fat underneath. Fractional CO₂ laser works in the first two. It removes tiny columns of tissue through the epidermis and into the upper dermis, and heats the skin around each column, while the skin in between is left untouched. It does not target the fat layer. How deep those columns go is set for each patient and each concern, which is why CO₂ laser treatment in Stanmore at Medcura starts with an assessment and not a fixed setting.
What are the layers of skin?
So when people ask how many layers CO₂ laser removes, the accurate answer is that it works through the epidermis and into part of the dermis, in tiny columns. It does not strip whole layers away at once.
- Epidermis: The outer, protective layer, which is itself made up of several thinner sublayers. On most of the face, it is roughly as thick as a sheet of paper.
- Dermis: The thicker layer beneath, containing the collagen and elastin that keep skin firm and elastic. This is where CO₂ laser prompts the skin to repair itself.
- Subcutaneous layer: Fat and connective tissue below the dermis. CO₂ laser skin resurfacing is not aimed at this layer.
How does Medcura’s CO₂ laser treat the skin?
Medcura uses a fractional CO₂ laser, which treats the skin in a grid of microscopic columns that pass through the epidermis into the dermis, leaving the skin between them intact. The controlled heat stimulates new collagen and elastin. Every CO₂ laser treatment in Stanmore at Medcura is planned around the area and concern being treated.
Full eye rejuvenation
A bespoke CO₂ laser treatment for the skin around the eyes. By stimulating collagen production, it aims to improve skin laxity and soften fine lines in this area, with results building gradually over time.
Full face resurfacing
Designed to improve fine lines, acne scarring, pigmentation, enlarged pores and overall skin texture. The laser resurfaces damaged skin layers while stimulating collagen and elastin in the dermis. The treatment includes exosome therapy and an exosome mask, designed to support the skin’s repair after laser. Improvements in smoothness, firmness and clarity can continue as collagen remodelling progresses.
Full face and neck resurfacing
This treats the same concerns as full face resurfacing, together with skin laxity, across both the face and neck. Controlled thermal energy is delivered into the dermis to encourage collagen and elastin remodelling. Exosome therapy and an exosome mask are included to support recovery. Firmness and texture can keep improving as collagen continues to rebuild.
Stretch mark reduction
Fractional laser energy is used to stimulate collagen and elastin production and help remodel skin affected by stretch marks, and it can be used on various areas of the body. Over a series of treatments, stretch marks can become smoother and less visible. Each treatment is tailored to the person’s skin type and concerns.
What happens after a CO₂ laser session?
Initial healing commonly takes 1 to 2 weeks and can take longer depending on treatment intensity. The skin usually looks red and feels warm or tight at first, then the treated areas flake or crust as new skin comes through. Medcura’s full face and full face and neck treatments include exosome therapy and an exosome mask, designed to support the skin’s repair after laser. Aftercare covers cleansing, skincare and sun protection while your skin recovers.
The first visible changes tend to appear within 2 to 8 weeks. Improvements in texture, firmness and scarring can continue over the following weeks and months as collagen rebuilds. Treatment plans range from one to four sessions depending on the concern. Individual results may vary.
Who should not have CO₂ laser treatment?
CO₂ laser treatment is not suitable for everyone. Before any laser CO₂ treatment is booked, Medcura checks each of these at consultation.
- with an active cold sore or skin infection in the treatment area
- during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- after recent isotretinoin use
- with a history of keloid scarring
- during an eczema or psoriasis flare-up in the area
- straight after significant sun exposure or with a recent tan
Finding the right depth for your skin
Wondering what CO₂ laser could do for your skin? It works through the epidermis and into the dermis in tiny, controlled columns, and the skin rebuilds with new collagen as it heals. Getting the depth right for your skin and your concern matters more than any number of layers, and that starts with a proper assessment. Book a consultation for CO₂ laser treatment in Stanmore and our team will talk you through whether it suits you. Book a consultation with Medcura.
FAQs
Does CO₂ laser hurt?
Most people feel heat, prickling or stinging during CO₂ laser treatment, and it tends to feel more intense than microneedling because the laser removes tissue. Afterwards, the skin often feels warm and tight for a few hours, similar to sunburn. If you’re worried about discomfort, raise it at your consultation so it can be discussed before treatment.
Will CO₂ laser make my skin thinner?
Properly planned treatment is not expected to thin the skin, but excessive treatment can cause scarring or lasting damage. Depth is set after assessment.
Will I see results after one CO₂ laser session?
Some people notice smoother, brighter-looking skin after one session, but most results build gradually. Medcura’s treatment plans range from one to four sessions depending on the concern, and improvements can continue for months as collagen rebuilds. Stretch marks are usually treated over a series of sessions.
Is CO₂ laser suitable for all skin types?
Suitability depends on your skin type and concern. Medcura specialises in skin types and confirms suitability for you at your consultation.
Is there a risk of scarring with CO₂ laser?
Yes, excessive treatment can cause scarring or lasting skin damage. Medcura sets the depth for each patient after assessment and screens for keloid history first.
