CO₂ laser “grids” (the tiny square or dotted pattern you see after treatment) are a normal part of healing after fractional CO₂ resurfacing.
Typical Timeline (Most Patients)
- Days 1–3:
Redness, swelling, and clearly visible grid/dot pattern - Days 4–7:
Grids begin to fade and flake off as the skin re-epithelializes - Days 7–14:
Grid marks are usually gone, but skin may remain pink - 2–6 weeks:
Residual pinkness gradually fades - 3–6 months:
Ongoing collagen remodeling and texture improvement
Why Some People See Grids Longer
- Deeper or higher-energy CO₂ settings
- Aggressive density or multiple passes
- Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) may have prolonged redness or temporary post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Sun exposure or improper aftercare
- Smoking or slower wound healing
When to Be Concerned
Contact your provider if grid marks:
- Persist beyond 3–4 weeks without improvement
- Become darker brown/gray (possible PIH)
- Are associated with increasing pain, drainage, or signs of infection
How to Help Them Fade Faster
- Strict sun avoidance + zinc-based SPF once allowed
- Gentle cleansing; no picking or scrubs
- Liberal emollients during healing
- Provider-recommended topicals (e.g., bland moisturizers initially, then pigment modulators if needed)
- Avoid heat, intense workouts, and active skincare until cleared
Conclusion
CO₂ laser grid marks are a normal and expected part of the healing process and almost always fade on their own as the skin renews and collagen remodels. While healing times vary from person to person, most patients see steady improvement within the first one to two weeks, with continued skin refinement over the following months. This process is not dangerous and does not indicate a complication when proper aftercare is followed.
If you have questions about your healing progress or would like personalized guidance, please contact us at Aesthetics & Medical Lasers of Colorado.
📞 720-818-0533
🌐 aestheticsandmedicallasers.com
📍 Longmont & Fort Collins, Colorado
