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CO2 Laser Resurfacing | CoolPeel®

CO2 Laser Resurfacing in Medford & Braintree: Smoother Skin, Fewer Lines, Lasting Results

Advanced Technology. Minimal Downtime. Real Results.

CO2 laser resurfacing at Advanced Aesthetics uses the Tetra PRO by DEKA to resurface the skin, rebuild collagen, and address fine lines, sun damage, acne scars, and uneven texture. CoolPeel® offers the same precision with dramatically reduced downtime.

Available at Medford & Braintree

Provider performing a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment at Advanced Aesthetics, Medford and Braintree MA
Patient receiving a CO2 laser facial treatment with eye protection at Advanced Aesthetics

What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

Understanding the Tetra PRO CO2 Laser and CoolPeel®

CO2 laser resurfacing uses concentrated carbon dioxide laser energy to remove damaged outer layers of skin while stimulating deep collagen and elastin production in the dermis. At Advanced Aesthetics, we use the Tetra PRO CO2 laser by DEKA, a system recognized globally for precision, versatility, and safety. The Tetra PRO delivers two distinct treatment protocols on the same platform: CoolPeel® and traditional fractional CO2 resurfacing.

CoolPeel® uses DEKA’s exclusive H-Pulse technology to deliver a fully ablative resurfacing treatment without causing thermal damage to the surrounding tissue. This eliminates the extended downtime typically associated with CO2 lasers while still delivering meaningful improvements in skin tone, texture, pore size, and fine lines. CoolPeel® has been named NewBeauty’s Best CO2 Laser Treatment four consecutive years, 2023 through 2026. Traditional fractional CO2 treats at a deeper level for patients with more significant concerns, including deeper wrinkles, acne scarring, and more pronounced skin laxity, with a recovery period of approximately one to four weeks depending on intensity.

Common Treatment Areas Include:

  • Face, including forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin
  • Neck and jawline
  • Chest and decolletage
  • Hands
  • Abdomen and arms
  • Knees and other areas with textural concerns or scarring

CoolPeel® treatments take less than ten minutes for a full face. Traditional fractional CO2 sessions vary depending on coverage area and depth selected.

Why Choose Advanced Aesthetics for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

CO2 laser resurfacing is one of the most powerful skin treatments available, which means provider skill, clinical judgment, and proper patient selection determine everything. Selecting the wrong depth, protocol, or parameters can cause hyperpigmentation, prolonged redness, or scarring. At Advanced Aesthetics, every CO2 laser treatment is performed under the direct supervision of Nina Teixeira, APRN, FNP-BC, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in medical aesthetics and laser medicine. Your protocol is customized to your skin tone, Fitzpatrick type, primary concerns, and recovery availability before any treatment begins.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Medical Oversight on Every Treatment
All CO2 laser sessions are performed or directly supervised by a licensed medical provider. Every parameter, including power, density, and pulse duration, is selected specifically for your skin.
Two Treatment Levels, One Platform
The Tetra PRO allows us to offer CoolPeel® for patients who need minimal downtime and traditional fractional CO2 for those seeking deeper correction. We match the treatment to your skin and your schedule.
Customized Protocols Every Time
We assess your skin type, treatment history, active concerns, and lifestyle before selecting any parameters. You will never receive a generic protocol. Every session is mapped to your individual anatomy.
Award-Winning Technology
The Tetra PRO CoolPeel® has been recognized as Best CO2 Laser Treatment by NewBeauty four consecutive years running and received the AMWC Best Laser, Light, and Energy-Based Device award in 2024. We invest in best-in-class technology so our patients receive best-in-class results.

What to Expect During Your CO2 Laser Treatment

Personalized, Precise, and Professionally Delivered

Your experience will differ depending on whether you are receiving CoolPeel® or a deeper fractional CO2 session. Your provider will walk you through the full protocol, expected sensations, and recovery plan during your consultation.

  1. Before Treatment

    Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin. Topical numbing cream is applied thirty to forty minutes before your session. For traditional fractional CO2 treatments, we will also review your recovery plan, aftercare supplies, and timeline in detail. Bring sunglasses or arrange a ride if needed, as your skin will be sensitive immediately after.

  2. During Treatment

    Protective eyewear is provided. Your provider will pass the Tetra PRO handpiece over the treatment area using DEKA’s Moveo in-motion technology, which allows for even, precise coverage. A CoolPeel® full-face session takes less than ten minutes. Traditional fractional CO2 sessions take longer depending on depth and coverage area. You will feel warmth and mild pressure during treatment.

  3. After Treatment

    After CoolPeel®, skin will appear pink to mildly red for one to two days, similar to a moderate sunburn. After traditional fractional CO2, expect more pronounced redness, swelling, and a visible peeling and weeping process that begins within hours and continues for several days. Your provider will supply a complete aftercare kit and written instructions before you leave.

  4. When Will I See Results?

    An initial glow is typically visible two to four weeks after treatment as the skin heals and surface renewal completes. Deeper collagen remodeling continues to improve the skin for three to six months after your session. Traditional fractional CO2 produces more significant improvements in wrinkles, scars, and laxity over that same three to six month window as new collagen matures.

  5. Additional Benefits of CO2 Laser Resurfacing

    • Stimulates long-term collagen and elastin production in the deep dermis
    • Improves skin quality progressively in the weeks and months following treatment
    • CoolPeel® can be combined with injectables on the same appointment day
    • Treats the face, neck, chest, hands, abdomen, and selected body areas
    • Safe across a range of skin types when properly calibrated by a trained provider
    • Results are long-lasting with proper skincare maintenance and sun protection

Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing Right for You?

Ideal Candidates for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing is appropriate for a broad range of patients seeking meaningful improvement in skin quality, texture, and tone. CoolPeel® extends access to patients who previously could not accommodate the downtime of traditional CO2.

You Are a Great Candidate If You:

  • Have fine lines, wrinkles, or skin laxity you want to address without surgery
  • Are dealing with sun damage, brown spots, or uneven pigmentation
  • Have acne scars, surgical scars, or significant textural irregularities
  • Want meaningful skin resurfacing with minimal or manageable downtime
  • Can commit to strict sun avoidance and a structured post-treatment skincare protocol
  • Are in good overall health with realistic expectations about gradual, improving results

CO2 Laser Resurfacing Is Not Recommended If You:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have taken Accutane in the past twelve months
  • Have an active skin infection, open wounds, or significant active inflammation in the treatment area
  • Are prone to keloid scarring
  • Have a recent significant tan or active sun exposure in the area to be treated
  • Have very dark skin tones in certain cases, a thorough consultation and Fitzpatrick skin typing is required
  • Are taking photosensitizing medications, please disclose all medications at your consultation

A personalized consultation is required before any CO2 laser treatment. We will assess your skin type, review your concerns and medical history, and determine whether CoolPeel® or traditional fractional CO2 is appropriate for you.

Not sure if CO2 Laser Resurfacing is right for you?

Book a free consultation, and we’ll help you explore all your options.

CO2 laser system in the treatment room at Advanced Aesthetics

Combining CO2 Laser Resurfacing with Other Treatments

Maximize Your Results

CO2 laser resurfacing works well as part of a coordinated treatment plan. CoolPeel® in particular can be performed on the same day as injectables, making it efficient for patients who want to address both surface skin quality and underlying concerns in a single visit. The following combinations are commonly used to enhance and extend your results.

  • CO2 Laser with Topical SculptraThe micro-channels created by CO2 laser energy allow topical Sculptra particles to penetrate more deeply into the skin. This combination helps tighten pores, improves collagen stimulation at depth, and enhances the overall glow and firmness of the skin surface following resurfacing.
  • CO2 Laser with RF Microneedling (Morpheus8)Radiofrequency microneedling targets the deeper dermal layer to stimulate collagen production and improve dermal contraction, while CO2 resurfacing addresses the skin surface. Together, they deliver a more comprehensive improvement in skin firmness, texture, and laxity than either treatment achieves independently.
  • CO2 Laser with Neuromodulators (Botox / Dysport)CoolPeel® can be performed on the same day as Botox or Dysport. Neuromodulators address dynamic expression lines at the muscle level while CO2 resurfacing rebuilds the skin surface. This combination covers two primary drivers of facial aging in a single appointment.
  • CO2 Laser with Laser GenesisLaser Genesis is an effective maintenance treatment between CO2 sessions. It continues to build collagen, manage redness, and refine skin tone at a gentler level, extending and protecting the results of your deeper resurfacing treatment over time.

During your consultation, we will design a coordinated plan that maps the right treatments to your priorities, timeline, and recovery preferences.

Pre-Care & Aftercare

Aftercare and What to Avoid

CO2 laser resurfacing requires preparation before your appointment and careful management during recovery. Following these guidelines directly affects how well your skin heals and how strong your final results will be. Your provider will review your full pre- and post-care protocol in person, and you will leave with written instructions and any recommended products.

Pre-Care

Before Your Treatment: Pre-Care Instructions

  • Stop using retinols and all skin-dehydrating products two to seven days before your appointment.
  • Discontinue all exfoliating products, including AHAs, BHAs, and scrubs, at least one week prior.
  • Avoid sun exposure for two or more weeks before treatment. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily when outdoors.
  • Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin. Do not apply any skincare products or sunscreen on the day of your appointment.

Do

  • Day of treatment: Apply a cool misting spray or a sterile cool compress, not ice, to reduce the sensation of heat. Once the burning sensation fades, typically by bedtime, gently apply a thin layer of Vaseline or your provider-recommended product to keep the area moisturized and protected.
  • Days 1 to 3: Apply vinegar-soaked pads (one cup water mixed with one tablespoon white distilled vinegar) to help prevent or soften crusting from weeping or oozing. This can be repeated every two hours. Store the solution in the refrigerator between uses for added cooling relief.
  • Days 1 to 5 and beyond: Wash with a mild cleanser morning and night. Blot dry gently. Do not scrub. Apply post-treatment products as directed by your provider. If a burning sensation persists for more than a few minutes after applying a product, rinse with mild cleanser and cool water and contact your provider.
  • Once weeping, bleeding, oozing, or crusting has stopped, transition to a lighter, less occlusive product. Reapply every three to four hours or as needed to keep the area moist.
  • Sleep with your head slightly elevated. Use a clean pillowcase and change it frequently.
  • Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching the treated area unnecessarily.
  • Apply zinc or titanium-based sunblock once skin is fully intact and whenever sun exposure cannot be avoided.
  • Mineral makeup may be applied after a few days once the skin is fully intact and weeping has stopped.

Avoid

  • Do not use any exfoliants, retinoids, active acids, or other skincare products not recommended by your provider for two to four weeks or until cleared.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure for two to four weeks or as directed. Sun protection is non-negotiable during the entire recovery period.
  • Do not pick, peel, rub, or scrub any flaking, weeping, or crusted skin. Allow the healing process to proceed on its own timeline.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sweating, saunas, hot tubs, and excessive heat for five to seven days after treatment.
  • Minimize alcohol intake throughout the recovery period.
  • Do not expose the treated area to anything that may cause contamination or complications, including pets and dusty or dirty environments, as advised by your provider.

Aftercare by treatment

CoolPeel® Recovery and Results Timeline

Days 1-2: Skin appears pink to mildly red with mild tightness and warmth. Most patients return to light activities within forty-eight hours.

Days 3-5: Redness fades. Light flaking or dryness may occur as the surface renews. This is a normal part of the healing process.

Weeks 2-4: An initial glow becomes visible as the skin settles and surface renewal completes. Pores appear tighter, tone is more even, and texture begins to smooth.

Months 1-3: Collagen production continues to improve skin firmness and quality. Most patients schedule their next CoolPeel® session at this point to maintain and build on their results.

Traditional Fractional CO2 Recovery and Results Timeline

Day of treatment: Skin will feel hot and appear red. A sunburn-like sensation with swelling and mild to moderate weeping is expected. Follow the post-treatment care protocol your provider gave you, starting immediately.

Days 1-3: Active weeping and some crusting is normal. Apply vinegar-soaked pads as directed. Keep the area consistently moisturized with Vaseline or your provider’s recommended product.

Days 4-7: Weeping slows and peeling begins. For gentle fractional ablative treatments, most patients are through the acute phase by the end of the first week. For more intense fractional or fully ablative treatments, expect two to four weeks of active recovery before the skin is fully intact.

Weeks 2-4: New skin surface emerges. Residual pinkness may continue for several weeks and is normal. Strict sun protection is essential during this phase.

Months 1-6: The initial glow is visible two to four weeks post-treatment. Deep collagen remodeling continues through months three to six, delivering progressive improvement in wrinkles, scar texture, and overall skin firmness. Final results are typically fully visible at the six-month mark.

Contact Us Immediately If You Experience: signs of infection: pus, excessive redness that is worsening, or fever; severe swelling or pain that is increasing after the first forty-eight hours; blistering beyond what your provider described as expected; allergic reaction to any product applied during recovery.

All Pre-Care & Aftercare instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Your CO2 Laser Questions, Answered

What is the difference between CoolPeel® and traditional CO2 laser resurfacing?

Both treatments use the same Tetra PRO CO2 laser, but at different depths and intensities. CoolPeel® uses DEKA’s H-Pulse technology to deliver ablative resurfacing without thermal damage to the surrounding tissue, which dramatically reduces downtime. Most CoolPeel® patients are through the pink phase within one to two days. Traditional fractional CO2 penetrates more deeply, producing more significant correction in deeper wrinkles, acne scarring, and skin laxity, but requires a recovery period of approximately one week for gentler settings and two to four weeks for more intensive treatments. Your provider will recommend the appropriate protocol based on your skin, concerns, and recovery availability.

How many sessions will I need?

For CoolPeel®, most patients benefit from a series of three to five sessions spaced four to six weeks apart to see consistent collagen-building results. Many patients incorporate it as part of their annual skin maintenance plan. For traditional fractional CO2, one well-calibrated session often produces significant results, with a second session considered for deeper concerns after a full recovery period. Your provider will outline a realistic plan during your consultation.

Is the treatment painful?

CoolPeel® is generally well-tolerated without numbing cream for most patients. The sensation is described as mild heat and tingling. Traditional fractional CO2 treatments involve a stronger sensation, and topical anesthetic is applied before the session. Comfort management will be discussed during your consultation based on the protocol selected.

Can CO2 laser be combined with injectables?

Yes. CoolPeel® is one of the few CO2 resurfacing treatments that can be performed on the same day as Botox, Dysport, or dermal fillers. This makes it an efficient choice for patients who want to address both surface skin quality and underlying muscle or volume concerns without scheduling two separate appointments. Traditional fractional CO2 treatments are not typically combined with injectables on the same day due to the intensity of the recovery. Your provider will confirm the appropriate sequencing for your plan.

Can CO2 laser treat darker skin tones?

CO2 laser resurfacing requires careful assessment for patients with medium to darker skin tones, as higher melanin levels create a greater risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with certain settings. The Tetra PRO platform allows precise calibration of energy delivery, and our providers are trained in managing this safely. Fitzpatrick skin typing and a thorough skin assessment are part of every consultation before any laser treatment is scheduled. In some cases, an alternative protocol may be recommended to minimize risk.

How long do CO2 laser results last?

Results are long-lasting, particularly with consistent sun protection and a proper at-home skincare routine. The new collagen produced by CO2 resurfacing continues to work on your behalf for months after treatment. Most patients maintain their results with periodic CoolPeel® sessions and appropriate medical-grade skincare. Traditional fractional CO2 results can last several years with proper maintenance.

Pricing

CO2 laser resurfacing pricing varies based on the treatment level selected, CoolPeel® or traditional fractional CO2, the area being treated, and the number of sessions in your recommended plan. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized quote based on your goals. Individual treatments and package options are available to browse directly through our online booking system, so you always know what to expect before you arrive. Ask about our CoolPeel® package of 3 sessions, which offers savings when you commit to a full treatment plan. Payment plans are available.

Book Your CO2 Laser Appointment in Medford or Braintree

Let’s Build Your Skin Plan Together

At Advanced Aesthetics, we take the time to understand your skin, your concerns, and your schedule before recommending any treatment. Your CO2 laser consultation includes a full skin assessment, Fitzpatrick skin typing, a review of your treatment history, and a personalized plan with realistic timelines and clear recovery expectations. There is no pressure and no obligation.

Whether you are new to laser treatments or looking to take your skin results to the next level, you will leave your consultation with a clear picture of what is possible and a plan that fits your life.

Clearer skin. Stronger collagen. Results that last. Discover advanced CO2 laser resurfacing at Advanced Aesthetics in Medford and Braintree.