Does CO2 Laser Work for Acne Scars?
Fractional CO2 is one of the most effective tools for depressed acne scars. How well it works depends on your scar type, so here is what to expect for each.
Does CO2 laser really work for acne scars?
Yes, for most depressed acne scars. Fractional CO2 removes damaged surface skin and drives new collagen into the scar base, which raises and smooths rolling and boxcar scars. Ice pick scars respond less to laser alone. Most people see clear improvement after one to three sessions, with full results at three to six months.
CO2 for Acne Scars at a Glance
Depressed scars with a broad base respond best.
Deeper scarring may need a short series spaced a few months apart.
Deeper settings for scars mean about a week or two of healing.
Most people see meaningful smoothing. Few scars disappear completely.
Which Acne Scars Respond to CO2?
The bars show how strongly each scar type typically responds to fractional CO2 on its own.
Rolling scars
Wide, soft depressions with sloping edges. Fractional CO2 remodels the collagen beneath them, so they usually show the clearest improvement.
Boxcar scars
Round or oval scars with sharp edges. CO2 softens the edges and raises the base, especially shallow to medium boxcars.
Ice pick scars
Narrow, deep pits. Laser alone helps less, so they are often treated with other techniques first, then resurfaced.
Raised scars
Thick or raised scars and keloids need different care. A history of keloids is a reason to talk to us before any laser.
CO2 vs Morpheus8 vs Microneedling for Acne Scars
All three build collagen. They differ in how they reach the scar and how long you heal.
| Fractional CO2 | Morpheus8 (RF microneedling) | Microneedling | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Laser resurfaces the surface and remodels collagen below | Needles deliver radiofrequency heat deep in the skin | Fine needles create micro-injuries to trigger collagen |
| Best for | Surface texture plus rolling and boxcar scars | Deeper scarring, tightening, darker skin tones | Mild, shallow scarring |
| Downtime | About 7–14 days | About 1–3 days | About 1–2 days |
| Sessions | Often 1–3 | Often 3 | Often 3–6 |
| Darker skin | Needs careful evaluation | Generally lower pigment risk | Generally lower pigment risk |
Many scar plans combine methods. See Morpheus8 vs CO2 and our scar treatment options.
Is CO2 Right for Your Scars?
Usually a good fit
- Rolling or boxcar acne scars
- Uneven, pitted texture across the cheeks
- Acne that has been clear and stable for a while
- Able to plan about a week or two of downtime
- Committed to sun protection while healing
Talk to us first if you
- Still have active breakouts (we treat those first)
- Took oral isotretinoin in the past 6 months
- Have a history of keloid or raised scarring
- Have a deeper skin tone. Read CO2 on darker skin
- Mostly have deep, narrow ice pick scars
Acne Scar Treatment at Mirror Mirror
Your plan starts with a close look at your scars: which types you have, how deep they are and how your skin heals. From there we recommend fractional CO2, Morpheus8 or a combination.
For a full overview of scar options, visit our acne scar treatment page.
- Scar-type assessment before any treatment
- Fractional CO2 and Morpheus8 under one roof
- Session plan with realistic expectations
- Westwood location, close to Beverly Hills and Brentwood
Ready to see what your scars can do? Start with a scar assessment.
Book Now →CO2 for Acne Scars FAQ
Answers to the acne scar questions patients ask most.
Does CO2 laser really work for acne scars?
Yes, especially for rolling and boxcar scars. Fractional CO2 smooths the surface and stimulates collagen under the scar so it sits more level with surrounding skin. Results build over three to six months.
Can acne scars be 100% removed?
Rarely. The realistic goal is a clear, visible improvement in depth and texture, often enough that scars are much less noticeable in normal light. Anyone promising complete removal is overselling.
How many sessions of CO2 laser for deep acne scars?
Many people need one to three fractional CO2 sessions for deep scarring, spaced a few months apart so collagen can rebuild between treatments. Your provider maps this out after examining your scars.
Which is better for acne scars, microneedling or CO2 laser?
For moderate to deep rolling and boxcar scars, fractional CO2 usually gives a bigger change per session. Microneedling has less downtime and lower pigment risk but needs more sessions. RF microneedling like Morpheus8 sits in between and suits darker skin tones well.
Can I do CO2 laser if I have active acne?
Not usually. Active breakouts should be controlled first, because laser heat can inflame them and raise infection risk. We can treat active acne first, then plan resurfacing once the skin is calm.
What is the hardest acne scar to remove?
Ice pick scars are typically the hardest because they are narrow and deep. They often need targeted techniques before or alongside laser resurfacing.
How long after a CO2 laser will I see results for scars?
Skin looks smoother once peeling ends at about one to two weeks, but the real change in scar depth appears as collagen rebuilds over three to six months.
How much does CO2 laser for acne scars cost?
It depends on the area and depth, and whether you need more than one session. See current options on our CO2 laser pricing page, and your provider will confirm a plan at your consultation.
CO2 Laser Near You in Los Angeles
Mirror Mirror Med Spa is in Westwood, a short drive from much of the Westside and central Los Angeles.
