Your Treatment Area
CO2 treatments are usually performed on the face but can also be administered to the neck, chest, and hands. We’ll examine your areas of concern and help you understand where resurfacing is likely to help.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing in Denver, CO
Fractional laser resurfacing for smoother, softer skin.
Treatment Time 30 to 90 minutes, plus preparation and numbing
Downtime About 7 to 10 days; longer for deeper resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing is a skin rejuvenation treatment designed to soften wrinkles and improve acne scars, uneven texture, and sun discoloration. The treatment works by removing tiny columns of damaged skin and stimulating new collagen for smoother-looking skin.
At Luxe Forté Medical Spa in Cherry Creek, we’ll help you understand what CO2 resurfacing could do for your skin. We’ll guide you through what you can expect, from getting comfortable before treatment to caring for your skin afterward.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing at a Glance
These are typical starting points. Your details will be confirmed during consultation.
- Treatment Time
- 30 to 90 minutes, plus preparation and numbing
- Comfort Measures
- Topical numbing
- Downtime
- About 7 to 10 days; longer for deeper resurfacing
- Results
- Visible after healing, with continued improvement over 3 to 6 months
- Results Longevity
- Long-lasting with sun protection
- Number of Treatments
- Varies; a series may be recommended
- Cost in Denver
- $1,400 per session*
*Cost varies based on the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, and whether or not a series of treatments is advised.
What CO2 Laser Resurfacing Can Improve
CO2 laser resurfacing can soften wrinkles and acne scars while improving rough texture and sun-related discoloration. Collagen remodeling may also help skin feel firmer. Deeper wrinkles and scars may improve without disappearing completely.
Planning Your CO2 Treatment
Target areas and treatment intensity will be confirmed during your consultation.
Treatment Intensity
CO2 treatments are available in different intensities. Deeper resurfacing may offer greater correction, but it also requires more time to heal. We’ll recommend settings that are best for your skin and your target areas, and we’ll explain how much downtime to plan for.
Treatment Timing
Redness can persist for several weeks or months after a CO2 treatment. If you’re planning your treatment before a wedding or another important event, discuss the timing well in advance.
Are You a Good Candidate?
CO2 laser resurfacing may be worth considering when your skin needs more correction than a lighter treatment can offer. You may be a candidate if you:
- Have deep wrinkles or scarring
- Want to improve your skin tone and texture
- Are in good physical health
- Are able to take time for recovery
- Will follow aftercare instructions and protect your skin from the sun
We’ll review your medications and medical history to determine whether CO2 is appropriate for you. Certain conditions may mean postponing treatment.
If your skin concerns are mild, or you cannot accommodate the downtime, you may be a better candidate for one of our less intensive medical spa treatments. Our staff can help you select the treatment that is best for your needs.
The Luxe Forté Approach
At Luxe Forté, the care surrounding your CO2 treatment matters as much as the treatment itself. We’ll give you time to settle in while your skin is numbed, stay personally attentive to your comfort during the treatment, and walk through aftercare with you before you leave.
- Licensed clinical and aesthetic professionals with specialized training in laser treatments
- Treatment plans tailored to your skin
- A thoughtfully designed spa setting with attentive, personal service
- Clear aftercare instructions and follow-up to support healing
What to Expect During Treatment
Resurfacing typically takes about 30–90 minutes, with additional time for numbing.
- 01
Preparation
Your skin is cleansed, numbing is applied, and appropriate eye protection is provided.
- 02
Resurfacing
The CO2 laser treats the planned areas in a fractional pattern.
- 03
Immediate Aftercare
A recommended ointment or dressing is applied to support healing.
- 04
Aftercare Guidance
We walk you through caring for your skin at home.
Your Recovery and Results
Most clients should plan for about 7 to 10 days of downtime, with longer recovery after deeper resurfacing. Here’s how healing typically progresses:
-
First Few Days
Expect redness, swelling, and tenderness like a sunburn. The skin may look raw and have drainage or crusting, followed by peeling. Follow your cleansing and ointment instructions, and do not pick at peeling skin.
-
About One Week
Peeling progresses, revealing new skin. Many clients resume desk work around days 7 to 10, although deeper treatment may take longer. Your skin may still look pink. Wait until the surface has healed and you are cleared before wearing makeup.
-
Following Weeks
Redness fades gradually but may remain visible for weeks or months. You can resume normal activities, exercise, and active skin care products as directed.
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Following Months
Skin texture and lines may continue improving over 3 to 6 months as collagen remodels.
Caring for Your Skin
Use the recommended cleansing and healing products after your treatment. Avoid swimming, excessive heat, and irritating products until cleared. Protect healing skin with shade and a hat, then begin broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when advised. Contact our team promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness, fever, or concerning drainage.
What Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Cost in Denver?
Cost in Denver $1,400 per session*
*Cost varies based on the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, and whether or not a series of treatments is advised.
CO2 laser resurfacing typically costs $1,400 per session. Cost varies based on the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, and whether or not a series of treatments is advised.
During your consultation, you will be given a detailed quote. We’ll explain all that the total includes and which aftercare costs, if any, are separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't see your question, just reach out
How much does CO2 laser resurfacing cost?
CO2 laser resurfacing is usually $1,400 per session. You’ll receive a quote for your recommended treatment plan during your consultation.
Is CO2 laser treatment painful?
We take your comfort seriously. Before treatment we’ll administer numbing to reduce any discomfort, but a sensation of heat or stinging can still occur. This varies with treatment area and intensity. We’ll explain your comfort options beforehand and how to manage tenderness at home.
Will I need more than one treatment?
It depends. A single session can provide noticeable improvement, but acne scars and other deeper concerns may require a series. We’ll recommend a treatment plan during your consultation and go over the healing time needed between sessions.
How long do results last?
Improvements can last for years, though aging and sun exposure will continue to affect your skin. Daily sun protection helps preserve the results. Maintenance treatments may be recommended based on how your skin changes, not on a fixed schedule.
Is CO2 safe for darker skin tones?
CO2 is not appropriate for everyone. Darker skin has a higher risk of lasting pigment changes after ablative laser resurfacing. We will carefully assess your skin tone and any previous reactions to inflammation, and if necessary, recommend a different treatment.
Can CO2 cause permanent skin changes?
Yes. Scarring and lasting pigment changes are possible. Following aftercare instructions helps reduce these risks. Reach out to us promptly if you have any concerns about how your skin is responding after treatment.
How should I prepare?
Avoid tanning and share your medication list with us, including recent isotretinoin use. Mention any cold sores and the skin care products you use. We’ll provide instructions about products to pause and any preventive medication you may need. Do not stop prescribed medication without your prescribing clinician’s guidance.
Can I combine CO2 with other treatments?
Sometimes. For example, injectables can address volume loss or expression lines that resurfacing does not correct. However, skin treatments need careful spacing to allow healing. We’ll recommend a sequence and schedule based on the treatments you want to receive.
Related Treatments
XERF Structural Skin Tightening
Uses radiofrequency energy to improve firmness, with results developing over several months. A starting point for a broader rejuvenation plan when skin laxity is a concern.
LaseMD ULTRA
A gentler resurfacing option for uneven pigment and texture, typically planned as a series. Worth considering when you want more correction than a facial with less downtime than CO2.
Biologique Recherche Bespoke Facial
Our signature luxury facial, tailored to your skin’s needs using the French skin care house’s professional formulations and specialized techniques.
SkinPen Microneedling
Uses fine needles to stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of facial acne scars. An option to consider when you want a less intensive treatment than CO2 resurfacing.
“Every inch of this elegant spa feels like a five-star getaway… My VI Peel was actually relaxing and felt incredibly divine. Not at all spicy like peels I have had in the past. Brooke, my therapist, was incredibly attentive and able to answer questions about all my concerns…”
“Alyssa and Charlotte make an incredible team! My husband and I felt genuinely welcomed and comfortable from the moment we walked in. The spa is beautiful and truly delivers a luxury experience…”
“Luxe Forte is a beautiful med spa! Tiana was a meticulous and wonderful nurse injector who made my first Botox experience easy and comfortable. She took the time to explain everything and made me feel completely at ease…”
“I had a wonderful, soothing, and Zen experience at Luxe Forte Med Spa last week! Alyssa did my PRX peel and Charlotte did my Botox. Both were absolutely awesome, and my face is glowing”
“I love this place. Easy, free parking and great environment. I highly recommend the dermaplane facial. Alyssa is phenomenal!”
Schedule Your Consultation
Interested in CO2 laser resurfacing? Visit Luxe Forté in Cherry Creek to discuss what you’d like to improve about your skin. We’ll assess the areas that concern you and explain whether CO2 resurfacing or another treatment would be a better fit for your needs.