eCO2 Laser Treatment
eCO2 laser treatment is a fractional ablative laser therapy that uses carbon dioxide (CO2) laser energy to resurface damaged skin, reduce wrinkles, improve the appearance of scars, and correct sunspots and other signs of sun damage. The laser creates microscopic treatment zones in the skin (controlled micro-injuries), which supports the growth of new, healthier-looking skin and stimulates collagen for a smoother, firmer, more refreshed complexion.
This advanced resurfacing technology is highly customizable for different skin concerns. While eCO2 typically involves more significant downtime than microneedling and other lighter treatments, many clients feel the deeper resurfacing and retexturing is worth it.
Before treatment, we’ll review what you’re noticing, what you’d like to improve, and what kind of change is realistic for your skin—then build a plan that fits your goals and timeline.
Treatment Areas
eCO2 laser resurfacing is most commonly performed on the face, and may also be used on other areas where texture, sun damage, and crepey skin are concerns, including:
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Neck
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Décolleté
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Hands
What eCO2 Laser Can Help With
eCO2 laser resurfacing may be used to improve the appearance of:
WRINKLES AND DEEPER SKIN
Particularly around the eyes and mouth.
SCARS
Including acne scars, surgical scars, and injury-related scars (texture and tone).
SUN DAMAGE
Sunspots, age spots, and uneven tone from photodamage.
SKIN LAXITY
Mild to moderate laxity by stimulating collagen contraction and remodeling.
LARGE PORES AND UNEVEN TEXTURE
Refines texture and helps reduce the look of enlarged pores.
How eCO2 Works
eCO2 uses fractional laser energy to create thousands of tiny micro-thermal zones of treatment in the skin while leaving surrounding skin intact.
FRACTIONAL LASER ENERGY
Delivers energy in a fractionated pattern to create controlled micro-columns of treatment.
COLLAGEN STIMULATION
The controlled injury triggers the skin’s natural healing response, supporting a significant increase in collagen production over time.
SKIN RENEWAL
As the skin heals, older, damaged skin cells are replaced with new, healthier ones—helping the skin look smoother, firmer, and more even.
What To Expect During Treatment
TREATMENT TIME
Your appointment includes time for assessment, prep, and the laser treatment itself.
COMFORT + DOWNTIME
Downtime is more significant than lighter resurfacing treatments. Redness and swelling are expected, followed by dryness, rough texture, and visible shedding as the skin renews. Many clients plan their treatment around work and social events—but the deeper retexturing can be well worth it for the right concerns.
RESULTS TIMELINE
You may notice improvements as the skin heals, with continued changes over the weeks that follow. Collagen remodeling is gradual, so results build over time.
TREATMENT PLAN
Some clients choose a single treatment, while others benefit from a series. Your recommended plan will depend on the concern being treated (for example, scarring vs. overall resurfacing) and your goals.
Benefits of eCO2 Laser Resurfacing
COMPREHENSIVE REJUVENATION
Addresses multiple signs of aging and skin damage.
IMPROVED SKIN QUALITY
Enhances skin firmness, elasticity, texture, and overall complexion.
FRACTIONAL APPROACH
Leaves some skin intact, which can support faster healing and less recovery time compared to older, traditional full-field CO2 resurfacing.
CUSTOMIZABLE TREATMENTS
Settings can be adjusted to suit individual skin types, concerns, and desired downtime.
eCO2 Laser vs. Microneedling (How to Choose)
Microneedling is often a great option for overall skin refresh, early texture changes, and minimal downtime. If your main concern is deeper texture, more significant scarring, or more advanced sun damage, eCO2 laser may be a better fit. We’ll assess your skin and recommend the option that best matches your goals.
Who is Not a Candidate / When to Postpone Treatment
eCO2 laser may not be appropriate for everyone. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history and current skin condition to confirm candidacy.
You may be asked to postpone treatment if you have:
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An active skin infection, cold sore outbreak, or open lesion in the treatment area
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A recent sunburn or significant irritation
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Significant active inflammation in the area being treated
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, we can review whether treatment should be deferred based on your individual situation.
Aftercare Highlights
You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions at your appointment. In general, most clients are advised to:
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Use gentle skincare and keep the skin well-hydrated while healing
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Wear daily SPF and avoid direct sun exposure during recovery
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Avoid heat, heavy sweating, and picking or exfoliating while the skin is healing
Safety, Standards, and Follow-up
eCO2 laser resurfacing is a medical aesthetic treatment. We follow established protocols for assessment, treatment, and aftercare, including screening for candidacy and providing clear post-treatment instructions.
Serving Nanaimo + Vancouver Island
Located in Nanaimo, Rise Medical Aesthetics welcomes clients from across Vancouver Island, including Lantzville, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Ladysmith, Courtenay/Comox, Port Alberni, Duncan, and the Cowichan Valley.
When you’re ready, we’re happy to discuss a treatment plan tailored to you.