Noticing fine lines, sun spots, or old acne scars in the mirror can feel frustrating; especially when creams and peels only give short-term results. If your skin still looks tired no matter what you try, you’re not alone. Many people in Pompano Beach face the same struggles.

That’s where CO2 laser skin resurfacing comes in. At Icon Aesthetics & Wellness, we offer the Tetra CO2 with CoolPeel and DEKA Pulse technology, the latest generation of fractional CO2 resurfacing. These advanced treatments smooth wrinkles, fade scars, and tighten skin; often after just one session.

In this guide, you’ll learn how the treatment works, who makes a good candidate, what recovery looks like, and how it compares to other popular resurfacing options like Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, and Erbium lasers.

How CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Works

CO2 laser resurfacing uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove thin layers of skin in a controlled way. This fractional approach creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones, leaving surrounding skin intact to speed healing. The result? More collagen, tighter skin, and improved tone and texture.

Unlike gentler options, CO2 is ablative, meaning it removes the outer skin layer to reveal healthy new skin underneath. This makes it particularly effective for deeper wrinkles, scars, and skin laxity.

Why Tetra CoolPeel and DEKA Pulse?

Not all CO2 lasers are the same. At Icon Wellness, we use the Tetra CO2 platform, which offers advanced modes:

CoolPeel

CoolPeel is designed for patients who want the rejuvenating benefits of CO2 resurfacing without the traditional long recovery period. Using a unique setting that delivers controlled bursts of energy, CoolPeel minimizes heat build-up in the skin. This approach effectively removes damaged surface cells, refines pores, smooths fine lines, and improves skin texture. All while reducing the risk of unwanted side effects.

Most patients only experience a few days of mild redness and dryness, much like a light sunburn, making CoolPeel an excellent option for those with busy schedules who want visible results without major downtime.

DEKA Pulse

For those seeking more dramatic improvements, DEKA Pulse penetrates deeper into the skin layers to stimulate stronger collagen production and remodeling. This treatment is particularly effective for addressing more advanced concerns such as moderate to severe wrinkles, stubborn acne scars, and skin laxity.

While the results are often transformative, the deeper action does require a longer recovery, typically between five and fourteen days. During this period, patients can expect peeling, redness, and some swelling as the skin renews itself. Once healed, the results reveal smoother, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin that continues to improve for months as collagen builds.

These options let us customize your treatment intensity; from a refreshing skin reset to a full resurfacing transformation.

Ideal Candidates for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing is best suited for people who want noticeable improvement in stubborn skin concerns that don’t respond well to creams, peels, or lighter treatments. You may be a strong candidate if you have:

• Deep wrinkles or fine lines that make your skin look aged or tired.
• Sun damage such as dark spots, uneven tone, or rough texture.
• Acne scars (pitted or textured) that haven’t improved with other treatments.
• Skin laxity or crepey texture, especially around the eyes or mouth.
• Large pores or dullness that affect overall skin smoothness.

On the other hand, CO2 may not be recommended if you:

• Have active acne, infections, or open wounds in the treatment area.
• Have darker skin tones without proper evaluation, since there’s a higher risk of pigmentation changes.
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have medical conditions that affect healing.
• Take medications that make the skin more sensitive or slow down recovery.

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Before & After Results

Seeing the difference is often more powerful than words. At Icon Aesthetics & Wellness, our patients have achieved smoother skin, fewer wrinkles, reduced scars, and a brighter complexion with CO2 resurfacing.