If you want to improve the appearance and texture of your skin, there are many options available. But this availability makes it hard to choose the proper treatment. Laser skin resurfacing is a popular option. It is not a new concept, but many people aren’t familiar with the term CO2 laser resurfacing. Surprisingly, it’s one of the most popular laser treatments. It can help treat several skin issues, like acne, sun spots, stretch marks, and scarring. In this article, we discuss the cost of CO2 laser resurfacing, the factors that affect the cost, and more.
What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing and What Does It Treat?
CO2 laser resurfacing is a type of laser treatment that uses carbon dioxide. The CO2 vaporizes the skin’s thin layers to create an injury, which disappears as the skin heals. During this time, the skin produces more collagen, making the skin more elastic, supple, and smooth.
Using a laser on your skin can be scary for some people. However, it is an effective treatment and doesn’t hurt. During CO2 laser resurfacing, your dermatologist presses light beams or ultra-pulses against your skin. The process is similar to using exfoliating products such as chemical peels. The laser removes the dull, damaged outer layer by zapping your skin. As a result, it allows a fresh, clearer, and smoother inner skin to pop out.
CO2 is an effective and reliable treatment that can rejuvenate your skin within a short period of time. Although some risks are involved, they are not as weighty as the benefits. Some of the issues this treatment can address include:
- Wrinkles and deep wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone
- Facial scarring
- Sun damage
- Stretch marks
- Sagging skin
- Benign skin growths
Patients experience dramatic results within a short time compared to using other procedures. Some people even use this treatment for vaginal rejuvenation. But this area isn’t fully explored.
How Much Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Cost?
According to the reviews we have read, the average cost of this laser treatment is about $2,750. However, the price range depends on various factors. Some people claim that they spent as much as $6,100. The main factor determining the cost of your treatment is the skin condition you want to address. For instance, acne and wrinkles require varying intensities. Therefore, the prices will not be the same.
Other factors affecting the cost include location, consultation fee, provider, and maintenance. But overall, we can conclude that this treatment isn’t as cheap as some other alternatives, but it is very effective.
How Much Does It Cost in Some States?
Location is a significant contributor to the price you will pay. The more the procedure happens in your area, the higher the cost. Let us look at the cost of CO2 resurfacing in different states as per the information on the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
| State | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $1,625 to $3,295 |
| Alaska | $1,715 to $4,785 |
| Arizona | $1,300 to $2,570 |
| California | $1,715 to $4,785 |
| Connecticut | $1,980 to $3,170 |
| Delaware | $1,980 to $3,170 |
| Florida | $1,685 to $3,295 |
| Georgia | $1,685 to $3,295 |
| Hawaii | $1,715 to $4,785 |
| Idaho | $1,300 to $2,570 |
| Illinois | $1,575 to $3,275 |
| Kentucky | $1,980 to $3,170 |
| Michigan | $1,980 to $3,170 |
| Nevada | $1,715 to $4,785 |
| Ohio | $1,980 to $3,170 |
These figures are for general skin resurfacing procedures like laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, IPL photorejuvenation, and microdermabrasion. So, they are not specific to CO2 laser resurfacing. Also, remember that these numbers represent the zip codes of each state’s capital. Again, we must mention that states share similar costs with other states, as you can see by the repetition of average costs.
Factors That Affect the Cost
Let us look in-depth at the factors influencing your overall treatment.
The clinic’s location
People living in urban areas tend to pay more for everything than those in suburban or rural towns. Therefore, don’t expect any differences with cosmetic procedures like CO2 laser. You may be surprised to find a cheaper provider in a less posh neighborhood than in high-end estates. That’s because the clinic is not paying high taxes to keep the office running.
If your budget is limited, check sub-urban areas or smaller cities. You can still find experienced providers at an affordable rate.
Your provider’s credentials
For best results, it’s better that a professional with years of experience perform this treatment. Surgeons, dermatologists, or board-certified physicians are the best people to approach. They can help you address your skin concerns without putting you at risk of side effects. Plus, you will have a faster healing time if you get professional treatment. The only drawback is that they are expensive compared to someone starting out.
What CO2 laser technology is used
We’ve already explained how CO2 laser resurfacing works. The other thing we must say is that the treatment is usually categorized into fractional and fully-ablative procedures. Additionally, the customer can choose a specific brand to be used in their treatment.
Ablative treatments vaporize the whole outer surface. Therefore, you will need to be deeply sedated or injected with general anesthesia. Since it is an intense treatment, it is pricey compared to a fractional laser treatment, since it only removes part of the outer layer. So doctors only use numbing cream.
Remember that all these options have their perks and drawbacks. So work with your provider to know the most suitable option.
What Does the Cost of CO2 Laser Resurfacing Include?
Well, what is offered varies among different providers. But it generally includes the cost of the surgery, fees for anesthesia or numbing cream depending on what is used, and the medication prescription. Please don’t focus on the offerings so much. Your main goal should be to get satisfactory results. So choose an experienced, professional provider.
Is it Worth the Money?
Most people agree that this treatment is worth the money. Many have reported having evenly toned and smooth skin. However, some people have experienced scars, burns, and pigmentation issues and say that it is not worth it.
At the end of the day, whether to undergo or not this procedure is your decision. But, please ensure that you work with a professional doctor.
FAQs
Is CO2 Laser Treatment Effective?
Yes. According to research, the C02 laser is a safe and effective method for treating acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, etc. Many people have found satisfactory results after undertaking it.
How Many Sessions of CO2 Do You Need?
It depends on the issue you are addressing and how deep it is. If the condition is persistent, you will need more sessions. But generally, 2-4 treatments work for many people. People with a darker skin tone need lower doses, which may extend their treatment.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
You may not see the results immediately after the procedure. But they will be apparent in a few weeks as your skin heals.
Are CO2 Laser Results Permanent?
No. Laser resurfacing doesn’t yield permanent results. You’ll notice your skin getting better as time goes by. But you will need to resurface again depending on your needs.
Does CO2 Laser Remove Dark Spots?
CO2 is used to treat uneven skin tone and acne scars. Therefore, it may help remove dark spots and other discolorations on the skin.
How Much Does a Fractional CO2 Laser Machine Cost?
The prices of the machines vary widely. They can be as low as $400. But some cost as much as $60,000. This is also another factor that influences the cost of your procedure.
Conclusion on the Cost of CO2 Laser Resurfacing
CO2 resurfacing is an effective treatment for acne, hyperpigmentation, skin growths, and wrinkles. You will achieve smooth, evenly toned skin by the end of your treatment. But please work with an expert and experienced dermatologist for optimal results.
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