Choosing a resurfacing treatment involves more than comparing brand names. Skin condition, recovery time, and long-term goals all influence which laser is appropriate.
At Dr Joney De Souza’s clinic in Marylebone, London, treatment selection follows careful consultation. Two commonly discussed options are UltraClear and CO2 laser. Both improve skin texture and stimulate collagen, but they differ in intensity and downtime.
The CO2 laser has been used for many years to treat deeper skin concerns. It works by removing damaged outer layers of skin while heating the layers beneath to encourage new collagen formation.
It is often chosen for:
Because it treats the skin more intensively, recovery can take one to two weeks or longer depending on how deep the treatment goes. Redness and peeling are expected. It may also carry a higher risk of pigmentation changes in darker skin tones if not carefully managed.
CO2 remains effective, but it requires a longer healing period.
UltraClear uses fibre-based fractional technology to treat the skin in a more controlled way. Instead of removing large areas at once, it creates tiny treatment zones while leaving surrounding skin untouched. This helps the skin heal faster.
UltraClear is commonly used for:
Downtime is usually shorter than CO2 treatment, often lasting several days rather than weeks. Redness and light peeling are common, but most patients return to normal activities more quickly.
| Feature | UltraClear | CO2 Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Intensity | Moderate, controlled resurfacing | Deeper, more intensive resurfacing |
| Best For | Moderate ageing, texture issues, acne scars | Deep wrinkles, advanced skin damage |
| Downtime | Several days | 7–14+ days depending on depth |
| Comfort | Generally well tolerated | More intensive treatment experience |
| Skin Types | Suitable for a wider range of skin tones | Requires careful assessment in darker skin types |
There is no single “best” laser. The right option depends on how significant the skin concern is and how much recovery time you can accommodate.
Patients with deeper wrinkles or more advanced skin damage may benefit from CO2 resurfacing. However, many patients looking to improve texture, acne scars, or early signs of ageing prefer UltraClear because it offers noticeable improvement with shorter downtime.
At Dr Joney De Souza’s London clinic, every laser recommendation follows a thorough consultation. Skin type, history of pigmentation, lifestyle, and expectations are all considered before deciding on treatment.
The most appropriate laser is the one that matches your skin, your goals, and your recovery tolerance.
Our team would love to hear from you. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or simply want to explore your treatment options, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you would like to place an online booking you can do this via our online booking system.
Dr Joney De Souza Skin and Laser Clinic is located in central Marylebone and is easily accessible by public transport or car, with Bond Street, Oxford Circus and Baker Street Underground stations all just a short walk away. For those driving, paid on-street parking and nearby public car parks are available, making the clinic convenient to reach from across London, including Mayfair and Soho.
