CO2 Laser and CoolPeel in Fulton and Marriottsville, MD
How Pura Vida Personalizes CO2 Laser and CoolPeel
Adjustable pulse depth and density for every skin profile
Many patients have spent years layering retinols, peels, and serums to soften acne scars, etched lines, sun damage, and dull texture, only to plateau in their results. The difference at Pura Vida is the Tetra CO2 by DEKA paired with clinician judgment. We assess your Fitzpatrick category, the depth of your scarring or wrinkles, your pigment pattern, and your lifestyle, then choose between CoolPeel for minimal-downtime refinement or a deeper CO2 setting for transformative resurfacing. For complementary collagen stimulation between sessions, we may sequence CoolPeel with RF microneedling to keep skin firm and refined.
CO2 laser and CoolPeel at Pura Vida addresses acne scars, deep wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, uneven texture, stretch marks, and crepey skin on the hands, neck, and decolletage. For pigment-only concerns or rosacea, we may recommend IPL photo rejuvenation first. Most patients see significant improvement after a single CO2 treatment or a short series of CoolPeel sessions, with a yearly touch-up to maintain that smooth, luminous quality.
What Is CO2 Laser and CoolPeel?
CO2 laser resurfacing uses a 10,600 nm carbon dioxide wavelength absorbed by water in the skin. The Tetra CO2 by DEKA delivers it in microscopic columns, ablating tiny zones of damaged tissue while leaving healthy skin between them intact, so new collagen and elastin replace scarred, sun-damaged, and lax tissue for smoother texture, softer wrinkles, and tighter skin. The National Library of Medicine calls fractional CO2 one of the most studied ablative resurfacing technologies.
CoolPeel is the Tetra's short-pulse, low-thermal mode: high-peak-power bursts remove the outermost photoaged layer without bulk heat, giving true fractional CO2 refinement with only 1 to 3 days of downtime. For deeper concerns like significant scarring or etched wrinkles, the same device can be set more aggressively. Both differ from non-ablative options such as IPL photo rejuvenation, which leave the surface intact and target pigment and redness rather than texture.
Treatment Timeline:
Treatment Time:
30 to 60 minutes per session
First Signs:
Smoother, brighter skin within 7 to 14 days
Full Effect:
3 to 6 months as new collagen and elastin remodel
Downtime:
1 to 3 days for CoolPeel, 5 to 10 days for deeper CO2
Benefits of CO2 Laser and CoolPeel at Pura Vida
Transformative resurfacing with downtime tailored to your life
Adjustable Depth
One device, two modes: CoolPeel and CO2
Smoother Texture
Refines pores, fine lines, and acne scars
Brighter Tone
Fades sun damage and hyperpigmentation
Collagen
Stimulates new collagen and elastin
Versatile
Treats stretch marks, crepey skin
CO2 Laser and CoolPeel vs Other Skin Treatments
How Tetra CO2 compares to other resurfacing options at Pura Vida
| Feature | CO2 Laser and CoolPeel | RF Microneedling | Chemical Peels | IPL Photo Rejuvenation | Best For | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Ablative fractional CO2 laser | Radiofrequency plus microneedling | Acid-based exfoliation | Broad-spectrum pulsed light | Texture, scars, wrinkles for CO2 | 1 to 10 days for CO2 |
| Target | Surface and dermal resurfacing | Mid to deep dermis | Surface to mid-dermis | Pigment and vessels | Acne scars, deep wrinkles | 1 to 3 days for CoolPeel |
| Best Candidate | Acne scars, deep wrinkles, sun damage, stretch marks | Skin laxity, mild scarring | Acne, melasma, dullness | Sun spots, rosacea, redness | Fitzpatrick I-IV photoaged | Varies by treatment |
Is CO2 Laser and CoolPeel Right for You?
CO2 laser and CoolPeel suit Fitzpatrick types I-IV with acne scars, deep wrinkles, sun damage, pigment, or uneven texture.
Ideal Candidates for CO2 Laser and CoolPeel
- Adults with acne scars, rolling or boxcar scars, or pitted texture
- Patients with deep wrinkles, etched lines, or significant photoaging
- Those concerned with sun damage, hyperpigmentation, or uneven tone
- Fitzpatrick skin types I through IV without a recent tan
Who Should Wait or Avoid CO2 Laser and CoolPeel
- Recent sun exposure, tanning bed use, or self-tanner within the past 2 to 4 weeks
- Active cold sores, acne flares, or skin infection in the treatment area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Recent isotretinoin use within the prior 6 to 12 months
Talk to Us First If…
- You have a deeper skin tone and want to confirm suitability and settings
- You're prone to cold sores or have an active infection
- You take isotretinoin or a photosensitizing medication
- You have an event soon and need time for the healing process
During your consultation, our team will review your Fitzpatrick category, medications, sun exposure history, and goals to confirm that CoolPeel or deeper CO2 is the safest, most effective option for your skin.
Your CO2 Laser and CoolPeel Appointment
A clinically guided, comfortable experience
Consultation and Skin Mapping
Cleanse and Numbing
Tetra CO2 Treatment
Cooling and Soothe
Aftercare Plan
Possible Side Effects and Risks
CO2 laser and CoolPeel have a well-established safety profile when performed by trained clinicians on appropriate skin types.
Common, Expected Side Effects
Common, expected effects include redness, warmth, mild swelling, and a sandpaper-like texture as microscopic treatment zones heal. CoolPeel patients typically see resolution in 1 to 3 days, while deeper CO2 patients may experience 5 to 10 days of visible redness and flaking. The American Academy of Dermatology publishes patient guidance on what to expect from ablative laser resurfacing.
Less Common Reactions to Watch For
Less common risks include prolonged redness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, milia formation, acne breakouts, and reactivation of cold sores. These risks rise in Fitzpatrick V and VI skin types or in patients with a recent tan, which is why we screen carefully and may pre-treat with pigment-balancing topicals.
Rare Risks and Important Safety Screening
Rare risks include scarring, infection, or delayed healing, particularly in patients with a history of keloids, recent isotretinoin use, or autoimmune conditions. Following your prescribed pre-treatment and home-care protocol substantially reduces these risks, and our team will walk you through every step to keep your results safe and predictable.
Before and After CO2 Laser and CoolPeel
Most patients notice smoother, brighter skin within 7 to 14 days of treatment as the outer layer fully renews. Acne scars, deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and texture continue to improve over 3 to 6 months as new collagen and elastin remodel. A single deeper CO2 session can deliver dramatic results, while CoolPeel patients typically build their results across a series of 2 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Annual maintenance preserves long-term outcomes.
CO2 Laser and CoolPeel before and afters
Our patients achieve real, natural-looking results. Individual outcomes vary based on each patient's skin, treatment plan, and number of sessions.
CO2 Laser and CoolPeel Pricing
Transparent pricing tailored to your protocol
CO2 laser and CoolPeel pricing at Pura Vida Med Spa depends on the area treated - face, neck, chest, hands, body, or combination - the depth setting (CoolPeel versus deeper CO2), and the number of sessions in your protocol. Full-face deeper CO2 sessions are priced as a transformative single treatment, while CoolPeel series packages offer a lower per-session investment with the flexibility to build results gradually. Seasonal promotions are often available.
Payment and Financing
- Major credit cards accepted
- CareCredit financing available for qualifying applicants
- Cherry financing available for flexible monthly payments
- Series packages discounted versus single sessions
Financing Options
Pura Vida Med Spa accepts CareCredit and Cherry Financing, both of which offer monthly payment plans so your treatment fits comfortably into your routine.
Your final pricing is reviewed transparently during your consultation, with no pressure and no hidden fees. Call (301) 604-8432 or book online to schedule.
Why Choose Pura Vida Med Spa for CO2 Laser and CoolPeel in Fulton, MD
Founded by Dr. Leslie Apgar, MD, Pura Vida is trained on the Tetra CO2 by DEKA platform. Every treatment includes Fitzpatrick screening, test pulses and customized depth and density settings.
Physician-Founded Practice
Established and overseen by Dr. Leslie Apgar, MD.
Tetra CO2 by DEKA
Premier CO2 platform with proprietary CoolPeel technology.
Two Convenient Locations
Offered at both Fulton (Maple Lawn) and Marriottsville.
Fitzpatrick-Aware Protocols
Careful screening and depth settings tailored to your skin type.
Layered Treatment Planning
CO2 and CoolPeel fit within a broader skin renewal plan.
Transparent Recovery Guidance
You leave with a clear, written aftercare protocol so you know exactly what to expect during healing.
Pair Your CO2 Laser With in Fulton and Marriottsville
Layer Tetra CO2 with other Pura Vida favorites for synergistic results.
RF Microneedling
Virtue RF Radiofrequency for Skin Tightening and Texture
- Adults with mild to moderate skin laxity along the jawline, neck, or body
- Patients with acne scars, dilated pores, or uneven texture
- Those with stretch marks or crepey skin on the body
IPL Photo Rejuvenation
Prisma Light Therapy for Brighter Skin and Even Tone
- Adults with sun spots, age spots, or freckles on face, neck, chest, or hands
- Patients with rosacea, diffuse facial redness, or broken capillaries
- Fitzpatrick skin types I through IV without a recent tan
Exosome Therapy
Advanced Cellular Regeneration for Skin Renewal and Hair Restoration
- Adults seeking improvement in fine lines, texture or early signs of facial aging
- Patients with mild to moderate acne scarring or dull complexion
- Men and women with early to moderate hair thinning who want a non-pharmaceutical option
CO2 Laser and CoolPeel FAQs
Answers to questions we hear most often
01 What is the difference between CoolPeel and deeper CO2?
Both modes use the same Tetra CO2 by DEKA device, but CoolPeel is the proprietary short-pulse, low-thermal-damage setting that refines the skin with only 1 to 3 days of downtime. Deeper CO2 settings deliver more aggressive ablation and dermal heating in a single transformative session, with 5 to 10 days of visible recovery. Your provider helps you choose based on the depth of your concern and the downtime you can accommodate.
02 How many sessions will I need to see results?
Many patients see significant improvement after a single deeper CO2 treatment, while CoolPeel results typically build across a series of 2 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Acne scars, stretch marks, and significant photoaging may benefit from a tailored combination of both modes over time, with an annual touch-up to preserve your results.
03 Does CO2 laser resurfacing hurt?
We apply a topical numbing cream for 30 to 45 minutes before treatment, which keeps most patients comfortable. CoolPeel feels warm with a light prickling sensation, while deeper CO2 sessions may feel more intense and can include additional cooling or comfort measures during the procedure.
04 How much downtime should I expect?
CoolPeel patients typically have 1 to 3 days of redness, mild swelling, and a sandpaper-like texture before the skin renews. Deeper CO2 patients may experience 5 to 10 days of more pronounced redness, peeling, and flaking. Most patients can return to gentle daily activities within hours of either treatment but plan around any social events.
05 Is CO2 laser safe for darker skin tones?
Because the CO2 wavelength targets water rather than melanin, it is generally safer across more skin tones than some other lasers. Fitzpatrick V and VI patients require conservative settings, test pulses, and a pre-treatment pigment-balancing routine, and our team will screen carefully and recommend the safest path for your skin during consultation.
06 Can I combine CO2 laser with other treatments?
Yes. CO2 laser and CoolPeel pair beautifully with RF microneedling, injectables, and HydraFacial when sequenced correctly. Our aesthetic team will design a treatment plan that layers therapies safely, with appropriate spacing for healing, to deliver the best overall result.
Schedule Your CO2 Laser and CoolPeel Consultation
References
- Tierney EP, et al. Fractional CO2 laser skin rejuvenation (Dermatol Surg 2009). PubMed (PMID: 19614940).
- Hantash BM, et al. In vivo histological evaluation of a novel ablative fractional resurfacing device (Lasers Surg Med 2007). PubMed (PMID: 17415734).
- Ortiz AE, et al. Ablative CO2 lasers for skin tightening: traditional versus fractional (Dermatol Surg 2014). PubMed (PMID: 24548416).
- Manuskiatti W, et al. Fractional CO2 laser for the treatment of atrophic acne scars (Dermatol Surg 2010). PubMed (PMID: 20384754).
- Alexiades-Armenakas MR, et al. The spectrum of laser skin resurfacing: nonablative, fractional, and ablative laser resurfacing (J Am Acad Dermatol 2008). PubMed (PMID: 18423256).
- Tierney EP, Hanke CW. Review of the literature: treatment of dyspigmentation with fractionated resurfacing (Dermatol Surg 2010). PubMed (PMID: 20384759).