Treatments · Laser Treatments
Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing in San Antonio
Alma Hybrid combines a fractional CO2 laser with a gentler 1570 nm wavelength to smooth wrinkles, sun damage and texture with tailored downtime.
Medically reviewed by Francisco Cardona, MD, board-certified physician
Device
Alma Hybrid
Session time
About 60–90 minutes
Downtime
Typically 3–7 days
Sessions
Often 1–3
Overview
What is fractional CO2 resurfacing?
Fractional CO2 lasers create thousands of microscopic treatment zones in the skin, leaving the surrounding tissue intact so it heals faster. The skin responds by building new collagen and replacing damaged surface cells.
Alma Hybrid pairs CO2 with a non-ablative 1570 nm wavelength, so Dr. Cardona can adjust depth and intensity for your skin and how much downtime you can take, from a lighter refresh to a deeper resurfacing.
What it treats
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun spots and sun damage
- Rough or uneven texture
- Acne scars
- Enlarged pores
- Crepey skin around the eyes and neck
Who it’s for
- Adults with visible sun damage or wrinkles
- Patients wanting dramatic texture improvement
- People who can plan for a few days of downtime
- Patients who prefer a treatment tuned to their skin
What to Expect
Your treatment, step by step
01
Your Skin Evaluation
We start with an Alma IQ skin analysis to map texture, pigment and redness, then set goals together.
02
Your Treatment
After numbing, the laser is applied in passes set for your goals. Most patients feel heat and prickling.
03
Results & Follow-Up
Skin is red and peels for several days. Results improve over the following months as collagen builds.
The Technology
Alma Hybrid
A fractional CO2 laser combined with a 1570 nm non-ablative wavelength, allowing treatments from light to deep in a single platform.
Real Results
Before & after
Vita Nova patients, shared with their written permission. Individual results vary.
In the Treatment Room
Fractional CO₂ with Dr. Cardona
Fractional CO₂ resurfacing is performed under the direction of Dr. Francisco Cardona, including delicate areas around the eyes.
Does CO2 laser hurt?
We apply numbing cream beforehand. Most patients describe heat and prickling that is well tolerated.
How much downtime should I plan for?
Typically 3–7 days of redness and peeling, depending on how aggressive the treatment is.
When will I see results?
You will see smoother, brighter skin once you heal, with continued improvement over three to six months.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Settings must be chosen carefully. We assess your skin type at your evaluation to decide whether CO2 or another option is safest.
Can I see before-and-afters?
Yes. Visit our results page to see CO2 patients treated at Vita Nova.
How much does CO2 laser resurfacing cost?
CO2 laser pricing depends on the areas treated and how aggressive the treatment needs to be for your goals, from a lighter resurfacing to a deeper one. You receive an exact quote after your evaluation. CareCredit financing is available.
How should I prepare for CO2 laser?
Avoid sun and tanning, and stop retinoids for several days beforehand. We may prescribe an antiviral if you are prone to cold sores.
What is aftercare like?
You keep the skin moist with an ointment, avoid sun, and use gentle products while it heals. We give you a written aftercare plan.
Can CO2 be combined with other treatments?
Yes. CO2 is often paired with IPL for redness and sun spots, or with RF tightening.
When can I wear makeup again?
Usually once the skin has finished peeling, about a week after treatment.
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Begin Here
Your plan starts with an evaluation
See whether CO2 resurfacing is right for your skin and schedule.
Individual results vary. Results are not guaranteed. This page is for general education and is not medical advice.