How Much Does CO2 Laser Cost?

Last Updated on February 9, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

CO2 laser skin resurfacing has become an immensely popular anti-aging treatment thanks to its ability to reduce wrinkles, smooth scars, tighten skin, and achieve overall rejuvenation. But many wonder, exactly how much does CO2 laser therapy cost on average?

In this guide, we’ll break down the myriad factors that influence CO2 laser pricing, costs, and affordability. You’ll also find typical price ranges for full facial resurfacing, targeted treatments, medical uses, and other CO2 laser procedures.

We’ll also provide insider tips to save money on CO2 laser without sacrificing quality treatment. And assess whether CO2 laser ultimately delivers worthwhile cosmetic enhancement that justifies the financial investment.

So, if you’re considering CO2 laser skin rejuvenation or another CO2 treatment, read on for an in-depth analysis of the costs, prices, and factors that affect the bottom line.

How Much Does CO2 Laser Cost?

The cost of CO2 laser procedures typically ranges from small interventions for $500 to $1,500 per session, with full facial treatments averaging between $2,000 to $5,000. It varies widely based on the extent of treatment, geographic location, provider expertise, and specific laser technology used.

On average nationally, patients pay approximately:

• $2,000 – $5,000 for full face CO2 laser resurfacing on the cheeks, forehead, around the eyes, neck, and décolletage. This assumes 1-3 sessions depending on the severity of aging signs and desired degree of correction.

For smaller specific areas, targeted CO2 laser treatment typically costs:

• Crow’s feet or under eyes: $500 – $1,500
• Upper lip lines: $500 – $1,000
• Neck/chest resurfacing: $1,500 – $3,500

So for mild to moderate wrinkles, scars, and skin texture issues on localized areas, CO2 laser costs range $500 – $1,500 per session on average.

But besides cosmetic skin resurfacing, CO2 lasers have many other uses in medicine.

Dental and Medical CO2 Laser Procedures

Using CO2 lasers for surgical cutting and reshaping of oral tissues costs $500 – $3,000 on average depending on the scope of application.

For small tumor removal or other specialized medical treatments, CO2 laser costs from $1,500 – $10,000 based on size and technique.

Beyond skin rejuvenation, CO2 lasers are commonly used for:

CO2 Laser Scar Revision

For surgical scar and acne scar improvement, CO2 laser costs typically range $300 – $800 per isolated area treated. Larger regions with multiple scars may cost up to $1,500 per session.

CO2 Laser Lesion Removal

Removing benign lesions like warts, fibromas, and sun spots with CO2 averages $150 – $700 depending on the number and size of the growths treated.

CO2 Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation

Popular procedures like MonaLisa Touch and FemiLift for vaginal health cost approximately $600 – $1,500 per session. A full package of 3 sessions for optimal tightening and collagen building usually totals $1,500 – $4,000.

CO2 Laser Gum Reshaping and Dental Surgery

Using CO2 lasers internally for oral tissue procedures averages $500 – $3,000 depending on the extent of application.

CO2 Laser Tumor Removal and Surgical Applications

For small tumor removal or other specialized medical treatments, surgical CO2 laser costs from $1,500 – $10,000 based on the technique, size, and complexity involved.

So, while most expensive for cosmetic uses, CO2 lasers provide versatile medical capabilities at significant cost savings over traditional surgical methods.

According to a report from Bimedis, the prices for some CO2 laser instruments can be as low as $400 or less, while newer, high-tier systems may cost up to $60,000. This range reflects the diversity in technology and features available in the market.

For treatments involving CO2 lasers, such as skin resurfacing, prices also vary widely. A source from El Paso Cosmetic Surgery mentions that a three-treatment package with products typically costs around $2,700. This price highlights how treatment costs can be bundled with additional services and products to enhance results.

A detailed overview from various sources indicates that ablative laser resurfacing treatments like those using CO2 lasers generally fall within a broader price range of $2,446 to $6,700 per session, according to data compiled by sites like CareCredit. Another estimate places the average cost at about $2,500, as noted by The Lanfranchi Center (The Lanfranchi Center). Additionally, RealSelf reports an average patient-reported cost of approximately $2,891 for these procedures (RealSelf).

In terms of shorter treatment sessions lasting 15 minutes or longer (up to an hour), prices can range between $500 and $1,500, depending on factors such as location and provider expertise (Laser Medical Clinic). These figures underscore how both equipment purchase and treatment costs are influenced by various market conditions.

What is a CO2 Laser?

CO2 laser is a specific type of ablative resurfacing laser that uses focused beams of CO2 (carbon dioxide) gas to remove damaged outer layers of the skin.

How Does CO2 Laser Work?

By precisely vaporizing thin layers of the epidermis and dermis, CO2 laser therapy creates controlled wounds that trigger the body’s natural healing response. This stimulation of collagen production and skin cell regeneration results in smoother, healthier, more youthful looking skin.

Typical CO2 Laser Applications Include:

• Overall skin resurfacing and rejuvenation for the face, neck, chest, hands
• Reducing wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes, mouth, cheeks
• Improving mild to moderate acne scars, surgical scars, and other marks
• Tightening loose or sagging skin on the face and body
• Correcting sun spots, melasma, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration
• Shrinking enlarged pores and smoothing rough texture

Factors Influencing the Cost

Like most aesthetic procedures, CO2 laser costs can vary substantially based on these main elements:

1. Geographic Location and Regional Market Rates

More expensive metro areas like New York City, Los Angeles, and London command higher pricing for treatments compared to small towns and rural areas.

For example, full facial CO2 laser resurfacing may cost:

• New York City: $4,000 – $6,000
• Atlanta: $3,000 – $5,000
• Orlando: $2,000 – $4,000

Doctors in prime locations generally incur higher real estate and staffing costs that translate into premium CO2 laser pricing. Competition also drives up rates in markets with many providers.

Impact on Price: Big cities can boost costs by 200% or more over small towns.

2. Type and Extent of CO2 Laser Treatment

• Ablative vs Non-Ablative Lasers: Ablative CO2 lasers that penetrate the dermis cost more than gentler non-ablative lasers.
• Full Field vs Fractional: Traditional full field CO2 treats the entire area simultaneously for faster results but higher cost per session. Fractional CO2 lasers use scanning spot patterns to treat zones gradually at lower individual prices.
• Large vs Small Areas: Larger treatment regions like the full face naturally cost more than spot treatments for localized issues.

Cost Impact: Ablative, full field CO2 for the entire face can be 200-300% more than fractional CO2 for localized wrinkles.

3. Number of Required Treatment Sessions

While mild issues may see results in 1-2 sessions, deeper scars or hyperpigmentation often need 3+ treatments over several months for the best improvement.

• Light sun damage: 1-2 sessions
• Deep acne scarring: 3+ sessions

Cost Effect: Multiple sessions can easily double or triple the total cost of CO2 treatment.

You might also like our articles on the cost of laser skin whitening, Botox, or chemical peeling.

4. Provider Experience and Reputation

Board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons with extensive CO2 laser experience charge higher fees compared to general practitioners or medi-spas.

Well-known practices with premium technologies and locations command prices at the higher end of the scale due to reputation and demand.

Cost Range: Specialists often charge 50-200%+ more than non-specialists.

5. Specific CO2 Laser Technology

Advanced systems like the Lumenis UltraPulse, Alma Accent, and Syneron Candela offer faster treatments, more precise control, and fewer side effects to justify higher procedure costs.

Price Impact: Cutting-edge CO2 devices can add $200-500 per session over older platforms.

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond the base procedure fees, several other charges factor into the total price:

Consultation Fees

Most providers charge a consultation fee of $50 – $200 to assess a patient’s condition and determine an appropriate treatment plan. This may be waived if booking procedures the same day.

Aftercare Products and Supplies

Antibiotics, steroid creams, skin moisturizers, sunscreen, and other aftercare products can cost $50 – $200 or more following treatment.

Prescription Medications

Antibiotic pills or pain medication are not usually needed except for major full-face resurfacing. Prescriptions generally total under $50.

Anesthesia and Facility Fees

For deep CO2 laser resurfacing requiring sedation or numbing, hospital/surgical center fees may cost several hundred to thousands of dollars.

When budgeting total CO2 laser costs, include potential ancillary charges on top of main procedure fees.

Saving Money

While rarely cheap, here are a few ways to control CO2 laser costs:

Find Qualified Providers Without Overpaying – Seeking general practitioners with laser experience or upstart medi-spas often reduces prices, but may sacrifice results. Finding the ideal balance between proven expertise and reasonable pricing is key.

Take Advantage of Package Deals and Loyalty Programs – Many clinics offer free or discounted treatments when purchasing a package of 3-5 sessions upfront. Existing patients may also get special loyalty pricing.

Consider Alternatives Like Fractional Lasers – Fractional CO2 lasers treat only portions of skin at once, requiring more sessions at a lower individual cost. This allows more gradual improvement for certain conditions.

Compare Prices and Financing Options – Shop around for competitively priced clinics that also offer payment plans to make CO2’s benefits more accessible. Just ensure they use proven technology and have the proper credentials.

Are CO2 Laser Treatments Worth it?

With average treatment costs ranging $1,500 – $5,000, CO2 laser resurfacing represents a significant investment. However, when performed properly by an expert provider, it can provide substantial, long-term cosmetic and dermatological enhancements for the right candidates that justify costs.

Potential benefits from CO2 laser that support its pricing include:

• Permanently erasing fine lines and wrinkles
• Smoothing and reducing moderate acne scars
• Tightening and mildly lifting loose facial skin
• Shrinking enlarged pores for refined texture
• Removing precancerous lesions and growths
• Rejuvenating aging décolletage and hands

However, prospective patients should maintain reasonable expectations. CO2 laser works best for mild to moderate skin damage in fairer skin types – not severely sagging or photodamaged complexions. Maintenance is needed every 6-12 months too. Improper use also risks pigmentation changes.

Overall, for those seeking significant tightening, smoothing, and renewal, CO2 laser resurfacing delivers lasting aesthetic enhancement that makes it a worthwhile, if pricey, treatment when skillfully performed. Consult a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to decide if it matches your needs and budget goals.

Expert Insights

To provide further advice and perspectives on CO2 laser costs, treatments, and results, we spoke with three top medical aesthetics experts:

“As a plastic surgeon performing CO2 laser for over 20 years, I can attest to its transformative capabilities for the right patients. While not inexpensive, in experienced hands it truly can turn back the clock 5-10 years or more.” – Dr. Leanne Mortensen, MD, FACS, Mortensen Plastic Surgery Clinic, Beverly Hills

“We’ve incorporated CO2 laser into our dermatology practice with excellent long-term outcomes for acne scarring, fine lines, and skin texture. Just be sure to pick an experienced provider and budget for 2-3 sessions spaced apart.” – Dr. Olivia Sands, Triple Lakes Dermatology, Chicago

“For optimal results, combine CO2 laser with other complementary treatments like neurotoxins, fillers, microneedling, and PRP. Many device companies now offer entire rejuvenation platforms. I suggest budgeting $5,000-$10,000 to see major improvements.” – Nurse Practitioner Priya Patel, FACE Skincare Medical Spa, San Francisco

Final Words

Given its average costs ranging from $1,500 – $5,000, CO2 laser resurfacing is certainly no small purchase. However, our analysis found that in the appropriate candidates under a qualified specialist’s care, CO2 laser can provide transformative, long-term rejuvenation of moderate wrinkles, scars, skin laxity, texture, and tone that makes the investment worthwhile.

Combined with healthy lifestyle habits, quality sun protection, and appropriate follow-up treatments, CO2 laser can restore vibrant, smooth, unblemished skin for years ahead. Thanks to its impressive results, CO2 laser remains a staple procedure for those seeking significant facial rejuvenation. Just ensure you thoroughly research providers and set realistic expectations.

Answers to Common Questions

What is the limitation of the CO2 laser?

CO2 lasers work best on superficial to moderately deep skin damage. They cannot treat very deep wrinkles, extensive photoaging, or tighten severely sagging skin as effectively as a surgical facelift. CO2 also poses risks of hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. Proper patient selection and treatment parameters are crucial to maximize results and minimize adverse effects.

How much energy does a CO2 laser use?

The power consumption of CO2 lasers depends on the wattage rating and duty cycle. A typical 30–100-watt CO2 laser with 20% duty cycle draws around 1.5-5 kilowatts of power on average during a procedure. More powerful 150–300-watt systems use proportionally more electricity. Efficient cooling systems are needed to prevent overheating.

What to look for when buying a CO2 laser?

When investing in a CO2 laser system, key factors include the power (watts), beam delivery method (scanning or fractional), spot size, pulse duration adjustments, cooling systems, ease-of-use, maintenance requirements, manufacturer reputation, and of course cost. Seek advice from experienced laser technicians and providers. Make sure to budget for initial training and ongoing maintenance. Advanced systems offer greater versatility but require more experience to harness their capabilities fully.