Acne Scar Treatment · CO2 Laser
CO2 Laser for Acne Scars in Mount Gravatt, Brisbane
CO2 laser is one of the strongest resurfacing options for acne scarring, removing damaged surface skin and driving deep collagen renewal.
Specialist consultations from $395 · No referral needed to book · Treatment costs confirmed in writing before you start · See fees
A dermatologist-led clinic, founded by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD, who teaches laser to dermatologists and registrars and has fellowship training in complex scarring.
Meet Dr MitchCO2 Laser for Acne Scars at a Glance
What CO2 Laser Treats
CO2 laser resurfaces the skin and stimulates new collagen deep in the dermis. In most acne scar treatment plans it comes after treatments that deal with individual scars, such as subcision and punch excision.
For CO2 laser's other uses, such as sun damage and wrinkles, see our CO2 laser resurfacing page.
- Moderate to deep boxcar and rolling scars, after release where needed
- Rough texture and an uneven surface
- Blending after punch excision
How CO2 Laser Works
We use the Lutronic eCO2 and Candela CO2RE, with depth and density set for your scars and skin.
Skin is prepared
Numbing cream is applied, and preventive medicine for cold sores is used where needed.
Microscopic columns
Fractional settings treat a grid of tiny columns and leave skin between them intact. Fully ablative settings resurface the whole area for deeper change.
Healing and collagen
The skin heals from the untreated areas within days, and collagen keeps remodelling for months.
What to Expect
Plan time off for the first week.
On the day
- Numbing cream beforehand
- A hot, prickling sensation during treatment
- The skin feels like sunburn afterwards
Recovery
- Redness, swelling and peeling for about 5 to 10 days
- Pinkness can last several weeks
- Gentle skincare and strict sun protection
- Improvement continues for 3 to 6 months
Often Combined With
CO2 laser works best once deeper scars have been treated individually.
Risks and Side Effects
All procedures carry risks. Suitability, recovery and results vary between individuals.
Possible side effects
- Prolonged redness
- Darkening or lightening of the skin, with higher risk in darker skin
- Infection, including cold sore flares
- Rarely, scarring
Lowering the risk
- Assessing your skin type and history first
- Preventive medicine for cold sores where needed
- Detailed aftercare and a follow-up visit
- Strict sun protection for months
Common Questions
CO2 Laser for Acne Scars: Common Questions
How much downtime does CO2 laser for acne scars need?
Plan for about a week with fractional treatment, and longer for fully ablative treatment.
How many CO2 sessions will I need?
One session can make a meaningful difference. Some people need 2 or more, spaced months apart.
Why not just have CO2 laser?
Tethered rolling scars and narrow ice pick scars don't respond well to laser alone, so we treat those first.
Is CO2 laser suitable for darker skin?
It can be, with careful settings and preparation, but some people are better suited to RF microneedling.
Does CO2 laser hurt?
Numbing cream is used. Most people feel heat and prickling, and the skin feels sunburnt afterwards.
How much does CO2 laser for acne scars cost?
It depends on the area, depth and whether it is combined with other treatments. You get a written quote after your consultation.
Find Out What Will Work for Your Scars
Book a consultation with Dr Mitch. He'll name your scar types, explain what treatment can and can't do, and give you a written plan with the total cost before you decide.
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Clinical content overseen by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD (AHPRA MED0001946771). Updated October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. All procedures carry risks; suitability, recovery and results vary between individuals.