If you’re thinking about trying a CO2 laser treatment, one of the biggest things you’re probably wondering is: how long is the downtime, and what does the healing process actually look like? It’s a fair question. CO2 laser treatments can do amazing things for the skin, like smoothing wrinkles, fading scars, and evening out texture, but the recovery does take time—and understanding what to expect can help you plan better, stress less, and get the most out of your results.

In this article, we’re going to walk through what downtime really means, what your skin goes through during healing, and how to care for it day by day. Whether you’re getting a light treatment or a more aggressive session, knowing the stages can help you manage your recovery like a pro.

What Is a CO2 Laser and Why People Get It

A CO2 laser is a type of skin resurfacing treatment that uses a concentrated beam of light to remove layers of damaged skin. Think of it as a way to hit reset on your skin’s surface. It works by creating tiny wounds in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural healing process and encourages new skin to form.

People often choose CO2 laser treatments to treat fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, age spots, and even uneven pigmentation. It’s commonly used on the face, but it can also be used on the neck, chest, and hands. There are different types of CO2 lasers—some are fractionated, which means they treat only portions of the skin at a time, allowing for quicker healing. Others go deeper and treat the entire surface area, which means longer downtime but potentially more dramatic results.

How Long Is CO2 Laser Downtime?

Let’s get straight to it: downtime varies. It depends on how aggressive the treatment is and how your skin naturally heals. On average, you can expect 7 to 14 days of noticeable downtime after a full-face CO2 laser treatment. For lighter or fractionated versions, recovery might be closer to 3 to 5 days.

That doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck in bed for two weeks, but your skin will go through very visible changes—redness, peeling, swelling, and flaking. Some people are comfortable going out in public during this time, while others prefer to lay low until their skin looks more normal.

Healing doesn’t end after the first week either. Even when your skin looks better on the surface, deeper healing can continue for weeks to months, and it’s important to keep caring for your skin throughout this process.

What Happens During CO2 Laser Healing?

Day 1: Right After the Treatment

The moment the procedure is over, your skin will feel hot—almost like a sunburn. It will look red, swollen, and possibly even oozing. Your doctor may apply an ointment or soothing balm and give you instructions on how to care for it. You’ll want to avoid touching your face and follow instructions carefully.

Pain levels vary, but most people describe it more as discomfort than intense pain. Over-the-counter painkillers and cold compresses can help.

Day 2 to 3: Swelling and Redness Increase

During this stage, swelling usually peaks. Your skin may start to feel tight and crusty. This is completely normal. Some people start to see the formation of a yellowish or clear fluid on the surface—this is part of your body’s healing response.

It’s very important not to pick at anything. Your skin is forming a new layer underneath, and picking or scratching can cause scarring or infection.

Day 4 to 7: Peeling and Shedding Begins

This is when things start to shift. Your skin may begin to peel or flake. The color can change from red to pink as the healing progresses. The peeling may look dramatic, but it’s actually a sign that the damaged skin is making way for fresh, new skin.

It’s tempting to help it along by peeling or scrubbing, but again—don’t do it. Let the skin come off naturally. You’ll probably still be applying healing ointments multiple times a day.

Day 7 to 10: Less Peeling, More Pink

By this point, the worst of the peeling is likely over. You may still be red or pink, and your skin might look shiny or feel extra sensitive. This is when many people start feeling more confident going outside, especially if they can wear a gentle, non-clogging sunscreen.

That said, you still need to baby your skin. Use mild cleansers, avoid makeup if possible, and protect your face from the sun.

Week 2 and Beyond: Surface Healing Done, Deep Healing Begins

After the two-week mark, most of the visible side effects are gone. Your skin may still be pink, but the surface should feel more normal. That doesn’t mean the healing process is over. Your skin continues to build collagen, improve texture, and repair itself for several months after treatment.

This is the time to keep your skincare routine simple and effective—hydration, sun protection, and patience are key.

How to Care for Your Skin During Healing

Keep It Clean and Moist

One of the top rules after CO2 laser treatment is keeping your skin clean and well-moisturized. Most dermatologists recommend gentle cleansing 2–3 times a day with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free cleanser. After cleansing, apply a healing ointment or cream (like Aquaphor, Vaseline, or what your provider recommends) to protect the skin and lock in moisture.

Avoid the Sun

Sun exposure is a major risk during healing. Your skin is extra vulnerable to UV damage, which can cause dark spots or interfere with the healing process. Avoid the sun completely if possible, especially in the first 10 to 14 days. After that, always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and try to stay in the shade.

Don’t Wear Makeup Too Soon

It’s best to wait at least 7 to 10 days before applying makeup, and even then, use something non-comedogenic and gentle. Your skin is still healing underneath, and clogging it with foundation or powder too early can lead to irritation or breakouts.

Hydrate and Let Your Skin Breathe

Drink plenty of water, rest, and avoid doing anything that makes you sweat heavily, like intense workouts, during the early days of healing. Sweat can irritate your healing skin and introduce bacteria.

When to Worry: Signs You Should Call Your Provider

While most of the healing process is uncomfortable but normal, there are a few signs to watch for that could mean something is wrong:

• Increasing pain after the first few days

• Pus or yellow crusts with a foul smell

• Fever or chills

• Signs of infection spreading (red streaks, swelling that gets worse)

If you experience any of these, don’t wait—reach out to your provider right away.

Long-Term Skin Care After CO2 Laser

Once you’re past the initial healing period, your focus should shift to maintaining and protecting your results. Good skin care helps you make the most of your treatment. That includes:

• Daily sunscreen use

• Gentle moisturizers

• Avoiding harsh products (like retinoids and exfoliants) for at least a month or until cleared by your provider

• Regular check-ins or follow-ups if needed

The better you care for your skin afterward, the longer your results will last—and the less likely you’ll need frequent repeat treatments.

Does Everyone Have the Same Downtime?

Not exactly. Some people bounce back quickly, while others take a little longer. Factors like skin type, age, the intensity of the treatment, and how well you follow aftercare instructions all play a part.

If you’ve had laser treatments in the past or have sensitive skin, it’s smart to talk openly with your provider so they can customize the treatment to suit your needs and tolerance.

Is the Downtime Worth It?

Many people who go through a full CO2 laser recovery say yes—the results can be dramatic and long-lasting. Smoother texture, fewer scars, smaller pores, and brighter tone are all achievable with one good treatment.

Still, the downtime is something to take seriously. You need to plan for it, prepare your schedule, and give your skin what it needs to recover properly.

FAQs

How long does redness last after CO2 laser?
Most redness fades within 2 to 4 weeks, though some people may see a light pink tone for up to 2 to 3 months, especially if they had a more aggressive treatment.

Can I go to work during CO2 laser downtime?
If you work from home, probably yes. But if your job involves seeing people or being active, you might want to take at least a week off. It depends on how visible the peeling is and how comfortable you feel going out during that stage.

When can I wear sunscreen after a CO2 laser treatment?
Usually after about 7 to 10 days, once the top layer has healed. Always check with your provider first, and make sure you’re using a gentle, physical (mineral-based) sunscreen.

Is CO2 laser healing painful?
Most people say the healing process is more uncomfortable than painful. There may be stinging, tightness, and sensitivity, especially in the first few days.

Will I need more than one treatment?
For some people, yes. It depends on your skin concerns and how your skin responds. Some issues—like deep wrinkles or scarring—may need multiple sessions spaced months apart.

Conclusion

CO2 laser treatments can deliver serious skin improvement, but the downtime is real—and not something to gloss over. Knowing what to expect during the healing stages helps you stay calm and patient through the process. From the first night’s redness to the final fading of pink skin, each phase has its purpose. With the right care, a little planning, and a lot of moisturizer, you’ll come out the other side with smoother, fresher-looking skin that was well worth the wait.