CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) Laser

Definition: A type of laser used in cosmetic procedures, and the first laser ever to be used as a surgical tool. The CO2 laser is an ablative laser, which means that it vaporizes skin on the surface, effectively removing the top-most layers of the skin. The CO2 laser can be focused down to a very thin beam and used to cut like a scalpel, or in a defocused mode to vaporize or ablate soft tissue. In cosmetic applications, the CO2 laser is typically used to address skin problems such as lines and wrinkles, unwanted tattoos, acne and other scars, and for skin tightening.