Acne scars are frustrating and often resistant to topical treatments. However, CO2 laser resurfacing has emerged as a gold-standard method for improving skin texture, reducing scar depth, and promoting regeneration. Here’s a deep dive into why CO2 works so effectively, which types of acne scars benefit most, and what you should expect if you pursue this treatment.
How CO2 Laser Resurfacing Treats Acne Scars
The CO2 laser emits a precise beam of light energy that is absorbed by water in the skin. This causes controlled vaporisation of damaged outer layers and heats the deeper dermis, triggering a wound-healing response. The result: new collagen deposition, remodelling of scar tissue, and the gradual resurfacing of a smoother skin surface. (Pulse Light Clinic describes how CO2 laser scar removal works in depth.)
Because of its dual action—removing scarred tissue and stimulating fresh growth—CO2 laser resurfacing is more powerful than many other scar-improving methods for moderate to severe scarring.
Which Types of Acne Scars Respond Best
Not all acne scars respond equally. Here are the types that tend to see the most benefit:
- Boxcar scars: These broad, depressed areas with defined edges are relatively responsive because the laser can flatten and blend the base with surrounding skin.
- Rolling scars: Their undulating, gentle slopes are amenable to smoothing via resurfacing and collagen remodelling.
- Shallow to moderate ice pick scars: While very narrow and deep ice-pick scars are harder to treat fully with CO2 alone, superficial versions can improve significantly when combined with other techniques (such as punch excision or focal subsurface treatments).
Deep, tethered, or narrow ice pick scars may require adjunctive treatments together with CO2 resurfacing for optimal results.
The Treatment Process and What to Expect
Pre-Treatment Preparation
You’ll typically have a consultation first, where a specialist assesses your skin type, scar severity, and whether you’re a good candidate. Pre-treatment protocols often include avoiding sun exposure, discontinuing retinoids or exfoliating agents, and possibly preparing skin with gentle regenerative creams.
The Procedure
Local anaesthetic (topical or injection) is commonly used to reduce discomfort. The practitioner then applies the laser over planned zones, with the depth and intensity tailored to your scar severity and skin sensitivity. The session time depends on the area treated.
Recovery & Healing
Expect redness, swelling, crusting, and peeling in the days afterward—this is part of the renewal process. The most intense recovery lasts around a week to ten days, though residual redness or pinkness may persist for several weeks or months in some cases. Over the following weeks, new collagen formation refines the texture and tone of the treated skin.
Results & Maintenance
You may begin to see smoother skin within a few weeks, but full results typically appear over several months as collagen remodels. Some individuals may benefit from repeat sessions or touch-ups, especially in zones where scars are deeper or skin healing is slower.
Choosing a Clinic in London
If you are considering CO2 laser resurfacing for acne scars, it’s essential to select a clinic with deep expertise and high standards. One such example is Pulse Light Clinic, which offers CO2 laser resurfacing services and can guide you through realistic expectations, recovery, and aftercare. (Check their CO2 laser resurfacing page for more.)
