Diminish Fine Lines & Imperfections
CO2 Laser
Dr. Jonathan Zelken, MD · Board-Certified · Newport Beach, CA
Advanced CO2 laser skin resurfacing improves the skin's texture and can reduce fine lines, discoloration, and scars — revealing a smoother, clearer, more youthful complexion.
Approach
Dr. Zelken's Philosophy
At the Zelken Institute for Aesthetic Medicine in Newport Beach, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Zelken approaches laser resurfacing the way he approaches surgery — as both an artist and a scientist. The goal is never to over-treat, but to refine: smoothing texture, softening lines, and restoring a natural, healthy glow that still looks like you.
Dr. Zelken performs CO2 laser resurfacing with the advanced Lumenis AcuPulse system, chosen for the precision and control it offers, especially in delicate areas. In experienced hands, laser resurfacing is a powerful tool — the difference lies in the judgment behind every pass.
Our practice is recognized for its expertise; we have recruited master laser trainers who instruct other aesthetic practices in these techniques. When you choose Dr. Zelken, you are placing your skin in the hands of a team that teaches the very methods used to care for you.
The Treatment
What is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a treatment for blemished, aged, and sun-damaged skin. Using concentrated pulses of light, the laser removes the outer layer of skin — the epidermis — while heating the deeper layer, the dermis. This controlled action stimulates the growth of new collagen, so that as the skin heals it becomes smoother, firmer, and more even in tone.
Because the laser targets imperfections with such precision, one layer at a time, there is less risk of the uneven lightening that older resurfacing methods could cause. Dr. Zelken offers both fractionated treatments — sometimes called Fraxel, laser peel, or laser vaporization — and fully ablative resurfacing, tailoring the depth and intensity to your skin and your goals.
Once the treated skin peels away, the fresh, pink skin beneath reveals a visibly more youthful surface. Results continue to improve over the following months as new collagen matures.
Tailored to You
Laser Resurfacing Techniques
Dr. Zelken tailors every treatment to your skin type, your concerns, and your goals. Several approaches make that possible.
- Fractionated Resurfacing Also known as Fraxel or laser peel, it reduces wrinkles, scars, and blemishes by treating the skin in precise micro-zones with minimal downtime.
- Fully Ablative Resurfacing A deeper, more comprehensive treatment for advanced sun damage and texture, delivering more dramatic results with a longer, carefully guided recovery.
- Lumenis AcuPulse System Dr. Zelken's CO2 platform of choice, offering exceptional control and precision — especially valuable when treating delicate areas around the eyes and mouth.
- CO2 vs. Erbium Two laser types are used in resurfacing. CO2 targets thin layers with little surrounding damage; Erbium addresses fine to moderate lines on face, neck, chest, and hands.
What CO2 Laser Treats
Fine lines and wrinkles.
Aged or sun-damaged skin.
Acne and chickenpox scars.
Dull, yellowish, or grayish complexion.
Enlarged oil glands on the nose.
Liver and age spots.
Warts and certain birthmarks.
Non-responsive skin after a facelift.
Is It Right For You
Are You a Good Candidate?
CO2 laser resurfacing is an excellent option for many patients, but it isn't right for everyone. The best candidates are bothered by fine lines, sun damage, uneven texture, or scarring, and are in good general health with realistic expectations.
You may not be an ideal candidate if you have active acne, very deep wrinkles, or significant skin laxity — concerns often better addressed by other treatments or surgery. Patients with deeper skin tones can be treated successfully, though they have a higher chance of temporary pigment changes; when appropriate, Dr. Zelken uses a pre-treatment regimen to reduce that risk.
To help you achieve the best possible result, your skin is often prepared in advance. This customized regimen is tailored to your skin type and typically begins six weeks or more before your procedure. Whether laser resurfacing is right for you — and which approach suits you best — is determined during your consultation.
What to Expect
The CO2 Laser Procedure
CO2 laser resurfacing is typically an outpatient procedure lasting between thirty minutes and two hours, depending on the area treated. Your skin is thoroughly cleaned and your eyes are protected. Because treatment can be uncomfortable, the skin is numbed with local anesthetic, and a sedative may be offered for comfort. For larger areas or when combined with other procedures, Dr. Zelken may recommend general anesthesia.
Healing Timeline
Recovery
First Few Days
- Skin feels like a mild to moderate sunburn.
- Redness, swelling, itching, or stinging are normal.
- Follow cleansing and moisturizing instructions closely.
About One Week
- Treated skin becomes dry and begins to peel, usually around days five to seven.
- Fresh pink skin is revealed underneath.
Around Two Weeks
- Most patients are comfortable returning to normal activities.
- Pinkness can be camouflaged with recommended makeup.
- Daily sunscreen is essential — no exceptions.
Long-Term
- Skin continues to improve for up to a year.
- Results are long-lasting, though natural aging continues.
- Treatment may be repeated over time as needed.
The Outcome
Results & Longevity
Many patients notice a difference in their skin soon after treatment, and results continue to improve for up to a year as new collagen forms. The complexion looks smoother, brighter, and more even, with softened lines and refined texture.
Results are long-lasting, but they are not permanent — the natural aging process continues, and expression lines will gradually return over time. For that reason, some patients choose to repeat laser resurfacing in the future.
It's normal for treated skin to stay pink or slightly red for several weeks to a few months, and to remain more sensitive to sunlight for up to a year. Diligent sun protection and a good skincare routine protect your investment and help your results last as long as possible.
Transparency
Risks & Considerations
As with any procedure, CO2 laser resurfacing carries some risks. These can include temporary redness, swelling, acne flare-ups, small white bumps called milia, and changes in pigmentation, which are more likely in deeper skin tones. Infection or reactivation of cold sores is uncommon and can be prevented with medication when needed. In inexperienced hands, laser resurfacing can be dangerous — which is why Dr. Zelken's training and oversight matter. All risks are reviewed during your consultation.
Explore More
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Begin Your Journey
Ready for Radiant Skin?
If you're considering CO2 laser resurfacing or have questions, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jonathan Zelken. We're here to help you look and feel your best.
Common Questions
CO2 Laser FAQ
Answers to the questions patients ask most about CO2 laser resurfacing.
CO2 lasers are a time-tested tool for treating skin. They deliver precise, short pulses of light that remove thin layers of damaged skin with minimal harm to surrounding tissue.
Laser resurfacing is usually an outpatient treatment that takes between thirty minutes and two hours, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Treatment can be uncomfortable, so the skin is numbed with local anesthetic and a sedative may be offered. For larger areas, general anesthesia is sometimes recommended.
Plan for roughly two weeks. Skin peels within about a week, revealing fresh pink skin. Redness can linger for several weeks and is easily camouflaged with makeup.
Yes. About five days to a week after treatment, the skin becomes dry and peels. We provide detailed instructions and products to make healing as smooth as possible.
Possible effects include redness, swelling, acne flare-ups, milia, pigment changes, and, rarely, infection or cold-sore reactivation. Choosing an experienced, well-trained provider greatly reduces these risks.
Skin may stay pink or red for several weeks up to a few months. Diligent daily sunscreen helps, and any lingering color is easily covered with makeup.
Results are long-lasting and continue improving for up to a year. Because natural aging continues, lines may gradually return, and treatment can be repeated as needed.