Calling all our glow-getters, radiance chasers, and skincare thrill seekers.
In this intimate account of a transformational skin treatment, we break down the hows, whats, and whys of laser-powered skincare.
“Skin Diaries” is NBGA’s new in-house column focused on delving first-hand into the futuristic and ever-evolving landscape of skin. Dermatologists, facial estheticians, skincare experts, and clean-science backed treatments will be put to the test.
The beauty landscape is constantly changing, evolving, and expanding – a truth that is thrilling for some, and totally confusing for others. At NBGA, our goal is to create a skin lexicon that can be used as a referential guide for those with a curiosity for clean, science-based skin care methods that are maybe more on the advanced side. Sometimes a classic Sephora product review doesn’t cut it – we want step by step accounting, as intensely detailed and specific as if we were talking on the phone with a girl friend, about the reality of the treatments we’re considering. Will it hurt? How do we prepare our skin beforehand? How much does it really cost? How many treatments are needed? Does it work the same way for deeper versus more fair skin tones? How long did it take for you to see results? What is the recovery time?
No matter the skin story, we’ll be going undercover to explore the dermatologist and expert-backed skincare treatments that can help with hyperpigmentation, acne scars, dull skin texture, brown spots, redness, and more — the list goes on. And is it possible for our skin to bounce back with restored suppleness, to radiate glowiness, and health?
I’ve got a skincare confession — my TikTok saved folder is full of CO₂ laser before and after videos and has been for years. The glow-up photos online could tempt anyone — skin that looks blurred, smooth, and practically FaceTuned. But as with every beauty treatment, there is a flip side. These vlogs showcase something a little more tough to envision yourself getting through. Images of people mid-healing with tomato-red faces, peeling skin, and the kind of content that makes you swear “never me” — at least until curiosity wins.
For me, the breaking point was texture. Years of breakouts had left tiny marks I couldn’t unsee, plus sunspots from my I-don’t-need-SPF era (in all honesty, we’ve all had one). I’m realistic — I wasn’t chasing “glass skin” perfection, but I did want a reset. A treatment that could even the playing field and rewind some of the damage I’ve incurred over the years.
So last winter, I decided to try something new for my skin. After growing tired of my “meh” skin, lingering hyperpigmentation, and a general sense that my skin had lost its glow, I booked myself in for the treatment that had been lingering in the back of my mind.
That’s how I ended up with Dr. Wasim Sakas in Frankfurt. His approach immediately put me at ease: no scorched-earth tactics, no max-intensity settings. Instead, he suggested we go slow and start with the lightest treatment possible. As someone with melanated skin (more intense CO₂ treatments are only recommended for those with fairer skin), this felt like the safe lane — minimizing any chance of hyperpigmentation or long-term damage.
Here’s what the process was like, what you should know before trying it, and whether I’d do it all over again.
So…What Is a CO₂ Laser Anyway?
Basically, it’s a skin resurfacing treatment that uses laser energy to vaporize super-thin layers of skin. Your body freaks out (in a good way), repairs itself, and reveals newer, healthier skin. It’s used for everything from acne scars to deep wrinkles and fine lines, sun damage and pigmentation. Here’s the thing: not all CO₂ lasers are created equal. They can go from “two weeks hiding indoors” to “back to brunch in five days.” Which is why customization isn’t just nice — it’s necessary.
My First Session
In the office, my skin was cleansed and numbed before beginning the process. To keep me comfortable, my physician blasted my skin with a stream of cool air during the procedure. Because of these helpful additions, it felt more like a warm zap than actual pain, and it was over in about 20 minutes. Right after, my face felt hot and tight — like a bad sunburn mixed with sandpaper. By day two, tiny brown specks showed up (think coffee grounds glued to my face). They weren’t intense or super visible, which was expected. Over the week, those flecks lifted off, revealing new skin underneath.
Healing Diary
Skin texture before my first session
Days 1 – 2: Red and hot, but tolerable.
Days 3 – 4: Gritty texture, brown specks.
Days 5 – 7: Flaking city. Satisfying, but resist the urge to pick.
Week 2+: Glow unlocked. Brighter, smoother, more even. Watching that old skin peel away was equal parts gross and deeply gratifying — like skincare ASMR.
Why “Less Is More” Really Matters
Here’s what I didn’t know before: going too hard with a CO₂ laser can actually wreck your skin. Overly strong settings might give that “pulled tight” look in the short term, but long term they can thin the skin or mess with elasticity. For people with darker skin, it can also trigger hyperpigmentation. Dr. Sakas is firmly in the “preserve, don’t punish” camp, which is why he prefers a series of lighter treatments instead of one aggressive session.
Prepping Like a Pro
Hit pause on retinoids, acids, and exfoliants two weeks before. Moisturize like it’s your job and remember to book in winter (sun + laser = bad combo). For everyone, post-care is a non-negotiable: fragrance-free cleanser, barrier creams, and SPF reapplied like clockwork. This is especially important for skin of color, sunscreen is the dealbreaker between “glow” and “dark spots.” Dr. Sakas recommended that I buy Avène Cleanance Cleanser, Cicalfate Cream for optimal gentle care, and Eau Thermale to help ease the itching.
The Results
After just one conservative session, my pores look smaller and my texture is softer. No dark spots, no rebound irritation — just skin that felt calmer and clearer. Because we went a little lighter, we didn’t have a life-changing session in one go, but we also couldn’t peel off a layer of burnt skin like a thick mask either.
The Experience in a Nutshell
Pain: 1/10 — more warm tingle than torture
Downtime: 3 – 4 days red, no makeup for a week
Treatment time: 20 minutes
Device: Fractional CO₂ laser
Cost:Upon request
Meet the Expert
Dr. Wasim Sakas is a board-certified plastic and aesthetic surgeon with more than a decade of experience. He’s trained everywhere from Beverly Hills to Paris and is known for blending surgical precision with subtle, non-invasive treatments. His whole philosophy is about balance. No cookie-cutter plans, just tailored approaches that protect skin long term. I deeply appreciated his honesty and the fact that he doesn’t promise overnight transformations. Instead, he favors a gentle, skin-protective approach designed to support gradual, long-term improvement. I felt completely at ease in his practice, and one CO₂ session per year has since become a non-negotiable part of my skincare routine.
Final Thoughts
The CO₂ laser isn’t one treatment — it’s a whole spectrum. With the right provider, it doesn’t have to be the horror-movie downtime you see online. In the gentle lane, it’s surprisingly manageable, safe, and effective — and you won’t be hiding indoors either. Consider me a convert, especially as someone who doesn’t enjoy staying trapped indoors, healing. As I build up my sessions, I’m sure I’ll get that intense transformation over time.