Fractional CO2 & Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing in Bellevue, WA

Reveal smoother, more even skin with laser skin resurfacing in Bellevue. Under board-certified dermatologist oversight, we tailor fractional CO2, Erbium:YAG, and non-ablative lasers to your skin tone (Fitzpatrick I-VI) using FDA-cleared platforms. Whether you're targeting wrinkles, acne scars, or sun damage, we create a safe, personalized plan that fits your downtime.

Ready to Start Your Skin Transformation?

Book a consultation or call our Bellevue clinic to see if CO2 or Erbium is right for you.

Call (425) 281-4325 to speak with our team.

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing uses focused light energy to improve your skin's texture, tone, and appearance. This treatment removes damaged skin layers while stimulating your body to produce new collagen and elastin - the proteins that keep skin firm and smooth.

How It Works: Collagen, Elastin, and Neocollagenesis

The laser creates controlled micro-injuries in your skin, triggering neocollagenesis (new collagen formation). As your skin heals, it becomes smoother, tighter, and more even-toned. This natural renewal process continues for months after treatment, providing long-lasting results.

Fractional CO2 vs. Erbium:YAG vs. Non-Ablative Lasers

Ablative lasers remove the outer skin layer, providing dramatic results with more downtime. Non-ablative lasers heat deeper layers without removing surface skin, offering gentler treatment with less recovery time. Fractional laser technology treats only portions of skin at once, speeding healing while maintaining effectiveness.

• Fractional CO2 laser - Gold standard for deep wrinkles and scars

• Erbium:YAG laser - Precise treatment with less heat damage

• Q-switched Nd:YAG - Excellent for pigmentation issues

• Non-ablative fractional options for minimal downtime

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Treatment Areas: Face, Neck, Chest, and Hands

We can treat multiple areas including face, neck, chest, and hands. Each area requires specific settings based on skin thickness and your concerns.

What It Treats

Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Wrinkle reduction happens as new collagen plumps and smooths your skin. Both deep lines and fine wrinkles respond well to laser treatment.

Texture, Pores, and Tone Improvement

Laser resurfacing creates smoother skin texture, reduces pore size, and evens out skin tone for a more youthful appearance.

Sun Damage, Pigmentation, and Melasma (Caution)

Sun damage including age spots and freckles can be effectively treated. For melasma, we use extra caution and may recommend alternative treatments to avoid triggering more pigmentation. Hyperpigmentation responds well when proper protocols are followed.

Acne Scars (Ice Pick, Boxcar, Rolling) and Surgical Scars

Acne scars of all types - ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars - improve with laser treatment. Surgical scars also respond well when treated at the right time.

Am I a Candidate?

Fitzpatrick I-VI: Skin Tone Considerations and PIH Prevention

We safely treat all Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI). Darker skin tones require special protocols to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). We may perform a test spot or patch test first to ensure safety.

Who Should Delay: Isotretinoin, Infections, Pregnancy, Keloids, Photosensitizing Meds

You should wait if you've used isotretinoin recently, have active infections, are pregnant, or have a history of keloid scarring. Recent tanning or photosensitizing medications also require postponing treatment.

Pre-Treatment Priming: Retinoid Pause, Hydroquinone, Antiviral Prophylaxis

Proper preparation ensures optimal results:

• Pause retinoids/exfoliants 5-7 days before

• Avoid sun/tanning 2-4 weeks; use SPF 30+ daily

• Start prescribed hydroquinone (if indicated) 2-4 weeks prior

• Begin antiviral medication if you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex antiviral prophylaxis)

Your Bellevue Treatment Journey

Consultation and Customized Plan (Patch Testing for Darker Skin)

During your consultation, we examine your skin, discuss goals, and create a customized treatment plan. For darker skin, we may do a patch test first.

During Treatment: Topical Anesthetic, Cooling, Eye Protection, Session Length

We apply topical anesthetic for comfort. Additional comfort options include chilled air/cooling devices, nerve blocks for focal areas, and optional Pro-Nox when appropriate. You'll wear eye protection. Treatment takes 30-90 minutes depending on the area. Most patients describe a warm, prickling sensation.

Aftercare and Recovery: Redness, Swelling, Scabbing, Sunscreen, Makeup Timeline

Expect redness, swelling, and possible scabbing. Follow our detailed aftercare instructions:

• Cleanse gently twice daily; pat dry—no picking

• Apply occlusive ointment (petrolatum/Aquaphor) for 3-7 days after ablative treatments

• Avoid workouts, hot tubs, and saunas for 48-72 hours

• Reintroduce actives (retinoids/acids) only when cleared by your provider

• Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+; makeup: 24-48 hours (non-ablative), 7-14 days (ablative)

Combination Plans: RF Microneedling, IPL, Chemical Peels

Enhance results by combining with RF microneedling, IPL photofacials, or chemical peels in a comprehensive treatment plan. Sequencing guidance: Botox 1-2 weeks before or 1-2 weeks after; fillers typically 2-4 weeks separate; RF microneedling spaced 4-6 weeks.

Risks and Side Effects

Common Effects: Redness, Swelling, Scabbing

These normal reactions typically resolve within days to weeks depending on treatment depth.

Less Common: Infection, Hyper/Hypopigmentation, Scarring, Acne/Milia, Rosacea Flare

Rare complications include infection, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, scarring, milia formation, transient acne breakouts, or rosacea activation. Pigment change risks are higher with recent sun exposure or inadequate priming.

How We Minimize Risks: Board-Certified Oversight, Protocols, Patch Testing

Our Board-certified dermatologist oversight, safety protocols, conservative settings, and experienced providers reduce risks. We provide detailed pre and post-care instructions and perform patch testing for darker skin tones as a risk-minimization step.

Results and Downtime

When Results Appear and How Long They Last

Initial glow appears within weeks, but full results develop over 3-6 months as collagen rebuilds. Results can last years with proper sun protection and skincare.

Downtime by Laser Type and Fractional Settings

CO2 laser resurfacing requires 5-10 days of social downtime (low-density CO2: 3-5 days vs. higher-density: 7-10 days). Erbium laser resurfacing needs 3-7 days. Non-ablative options may have minimal to no downtime. Fractional density/energy settings significantly influence downtime.

Maintenance: SPF, Skincare, Seasonal Touch-Ups

Annual or seasonal touch-ups help maintain improvements. Daily SPF and quality skincare extend results.

Laser Resurfacing vs. Other Options

Chemical Peels vs. Lasers

Chemical peels are less precise than lasers but good for superficial concerns.

RF Microneedling (Fractional Radiofrequency)

RF microneedling or fractional radiofrequency combines needling with heat for skin tightening.

IPL/Photofacials and Microneedling

IPL photofacials target pigmentation and redness specifically. Microneedling creates micro-channels without heat - gentler but may need more sessions.

Dermabrasion and RF-Assisted Laser (RFAL)

Dermabrasion offers mechanical resurfacing - less common now due to laser advantages. Radiofrequency-assisted laser (RFAL) combines technologies for enhanced tightening.

Cost and Pricing in Bellevue

What Influences Cost and Session Counts

Price factors include:

• Treatment area size and number of areas

• Laser type (CO2 vs. Erbium vs. non-ablative) and settings

• Number of sessions recommended

• Comfort options (cooling, Pro-Nox) and prescription topicals

• Provider expertise and complexity (e.g., acne scarring plans)

Most patients need 1-3 sessions for optimal results, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Get a Custom Quote at Consultation

We provide custom quotes during consultation based on your specific treatment plan.

Why Choose Our Bellevue Medical Spa

Board-Certified Oversight, FDA-Cleared Technology, Flexible Scheduling

Our medical spa features board-certified dermatologist supervision, licensed aestheticians trained in laser safety, and FDA-cleared laser platforms with proven safety records. We offer safety protocols, flexible scheduling including evenings/weekends, and personalized plans for all Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI.

Convenient Eastside location with easy access from Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Issaquah, Sammamish, and Mercer Island.

Start Your Journey to Better Skin

Book a consultation to learn which laser treatment suits your needs.

Call our Bellevue clinic today at (425) 281-4325.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right laser provider in Bellevue?

Look for board certification, a comprehensive laser portfolio (CO2/Er:YAG/non-ablative), experience with Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, willingness to perform patch testing, and clear before/after expectations discussion.

How long after isotretinoin (Accutane) can I safely have laser skin resurfacing?

Most providers recommend waiting 6-12 months after completing isotretinoin treatment before laser resurfacing to minimize scarring risks.

Which is better for acne scars: fractional CO2 laser or RF microneedling?

Both work well for acne scars. CO2 laser typically provides more dramatic results in fewer sessions, while RF microneedling offers less downtime and may be safer for darker skin tones.

How much does laser skin resurfacing cost in Bellevue?

Costs typically range from $500-$3,000 per session depending on the laser type and treatment area. We provide exact pricing during consultation.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery varies: ablative lasers need 5-10 days, while non-ablative options may have little to no downtime.

How many sessions are needed?

Most patients see great results with 1-3 sessions, though some concerns may need more.

Is it painful?

We use topical numbing cream to keep you comfortable. Most describe a warm, tingling sensation.

Who is a good candidate?

Adults with wrinkles, scars, or sun damage who can follow aftercare instructions make good candidates.

What are the risks?

Common side effects include temporary redness and swelling. Serious complications are rare with proper care.

Do results last, and how should I maintain them?

Results can last years with sun protection and good skincare. Annual touch-ups help maintain improvements.

Are there non-laser alternatives?

Yes, including chemical peels, microneedling, and IPL treatments. We'll discuss options during consultation.

Will insurance cover laser resurfacing?

Insurance typically doesn't cover cosmetic procedures, though some scar treatments may qualify.

Is CO2 or Erbium better for my skin concerns?

CO2 works best for deep wrinkles and scars. Erbium suits fine lines and provides faster healing.

Is laser resurfacing safe for darker skin tones?

Yes, with proper protocols and settings. We may do test spots and use special pre-treatment preparation.

Can I combine laser resurfacing with Botox or fillers?

Yes, but timing matters. We'll create a treatment schedule that maximizes results safely.

Book Your Consultation

Request an Appointment

Ready to improve your skin? Contact our Bellevue medical spa to schedule your personalized consultation. We'll evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and create a custom treatment plan for skin rejuvenation.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a list of current medications and skincare products. Arrive with clean skin, no makeup. Be ready to discuss your skin history and goals.

Take the First Step Today

Transform your skin with laser resurfacing in Bellevue. Our expert team provides safe, effective skin rejuvenation for all skin types.

Book a consultation online or Call our Bellevue clinic at (425) 281-4325.