UltraClear Laser vs. CO2: The Safer, Smarter Choice for Skin Resurfacing

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UltraClear vs CO2. Why I believe UltraClear is the safer, smarter choice for skin resurfacing.

By Dr Sabika Karim 29th July

If you’ve been researching skin resurfacing treatments, you’ve likely come across CO2 lasers. These have been a longstanding option in aesthetic medicine, offering effective resurfacing but this is often at the cost of significant downtime and potential side effects. Now, there’s a new exciting alternative: UltraClear.

UltraClear is a next-generation cold fibre laser that delivers impressive skin rejuvenation results with far less discomfort, downtime, or risk. Whether you’re looking to brighten and tighten your skin, reduce pigmentation, soften acne scars, or achieve a non-surgical lift, UltraClear can get you the results you desire. 

This article will cover the benefits of UltraClear vs a traditional Co2 laser and as always if you have any questions about these treatments or want to talk to us directly at Skin Medical, you can easily do so by email, phone or via our contact form.

Why Choose UltraClear Over CO2?

CO2 lasers work by using intense heat to ablate layers of the skin. While effective, they often lead to prolonged downtime, visible redness, peeling, and a higher risk of complications, particularly for patients with darker skin tones.

UltraClear takes a different approach. It uses a 2910nm fractional cold fibre laser to stimulate collagen at a deeper level without overheating the surface. This allows for highly effective results with minimal trauma to the skin. Most patients experience only mild redness for 1 to 3 days, compared to up to two weeks with traditional CO2.

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Tailored to your Skin Goals

One of UltraClear’s standout advantages is its safety profile across all Fitzpatrick skin types. This makes it an excellent choice for patients who may have previously been excluded from laser treatments due to concerns around pigmentation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Because UltraClear doesn’t rely on heat, it significantly reduces the risk of pigment disruption.

UltraClear is fully customisable, meaning we can adjust each treatment to suit your skin tone, texture, and personal goals. Whether you want a light skin refresh or a more intensive resurfacing treatment, your practitioner can tailor the settings to fit your needs and your preferred recovery time.

So what are the various types of UltraClear treatment depending on your treatment goals?

UltraClear offers multiple treatment modes to address various skin concerns. Click below to learn more about each tailored treatment in detail

3D MIRACL - The glow up
The celebrity fave to revive dull, tired skin and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. Perfect pre-event part of your regular skincare routine. Targets fine lines and superficial pigmentation
Learn More
Ultraclear - Rewind the clock
Restore, Renew, Rebuild. UltraClear remodels collagen to smooth deep lines & wrinkles, fade pigmentation & sun damage, improve acne scars & overall texture
Learn More
Laser Coring - The no-needle face lift
Tighten, smooth and restore. Dramatic, long-lasting skin transformation. 3D Coring tightens, lifts, and rejuvenates sagging skin, jowls, deep lines and scars.
Learn More

Introducing the “3D Miracle” Treatment

UltraClear also offers a signature treatment known as the “3D Miracle.” This is a no-downtime, superficial laser treatment that gives your skin an instant boost, refining texture, improving glow, and smoothing minor imperfections. It’s perfect before a big event or as part of your regular skincare routine.

Whether you want to target specific concerns or simply boost your skin’s natural beauty, 3D Miracl is a gentle, effective way to love the skin you’re in. This ‘glow-up’ procedure targets the topmost layer of the skin and gives a refreshed look, perfect pre big event, or for routine skin maintenance

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Before
After

What Can UltraClear Treat vs CO2 Laser?

UltraClear is a versatile device that can address multiple skin concerns in one session, including:

  • Uneven texture and pores

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Sun damage and pigmentation

  • Acne scars and surgical scars

  • Loose or crepey skin

  • Dullness and dehydration

It can also be safely used on more delicate areas such as the under-eyes, neck, and even upper eyelids, where CO2 lasers may be too aggressive. For patients seeking visible lifting and firming without surgery, UltraClear offers a treatment mode known as “coring.” This stimulates deeper layers of collagen without damaging the skin’s surface, resulting in noticeable tightening and structural rejuvenation.

UltraClear is one of the most effective lasers for treating acne scarring and pigmentation, particularly in patients with darker skin tones. Unlike CO2 lasers, which can sometimes exacerbate pigmentation. UltraClear is able to resurface the skin gently, supporting a more even tone and smoother appearance.

Downtime Comparison: UltraClear vs CO2

When it comes to recovery, UltraClear offers a clear advantage:

  • 3D Miracle (Superficial): 0 days downtime

  • Mid-depth Resurfacing: 1–3 days downtime

  • Deep Resurfacing: 3–5 days downtime

In contrast, CO2 treatments often require 7–14 days of healing time, making UltraClear a far more convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

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How Long Do Results Last?

Patients typically begin to see improvements within a few days, with continued skin renewal over several weeks as collagen production increases. Results can include:

  • Smoother skin texture
  • Improved firmness
  • More even tone and brightness
  • Visible lifting and rejuvenation

With proper skincare and occasional maintenance, results from UltraClear can last for many months, even years.

Why More People Are Choosing UltraClear

UltraClear represents a smarter, safer, and more adaptable approach to skin rejuvenation. It delivers high-performance results with less downtime and a broader range of applications, especially for patients with more diverse skin tones.

If you’re considering laser treatment and want natural-looking, long-lasting results without the extended recovery, UltraClear is an ideal choice. Book a consultation with our team at Skin Medical to find out how this advanced treatment can be tailored specifically to you.

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Why Choose Skin Medical for your UltraClear Treatment?

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I have been to see Dr Sabika at her clinic for many years and I’ve always felt very comfortable. All aspects of treatment are explained thoroughly, and i feel reassured by this. Dr Sabika has an impressive wealth of knowledge and experience. The results are amazing following every treatment and I’ve gained so much confidence since. In addition the clinic staff go the extra mile, they are so friendly making you feel relaxed and nothing is too much trouble. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Skin Medical for any aesthetic treatment.
Bonnie Hayford
Bonnie Hayford05/10/2024
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I discovered Dr Sabika and her team almost two years ago Everyone was so welcoming and nice. I was very nervous about having any treatment at all , but Dr Sabika soon reassured me and made me feel very comfortable and relaxed. Every treatment is well explained too. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
Jane Spooner
Jane Spooner01/11/2024
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Dr Sabika and Dr Saif and the helpful staff at Skin Medical are amazing. They give genuine advice on improving the skin and ultimately impacting the way you feel in a positive way. I travel from Bahrain to London every year and visiting Dr Saif is always on my list of things to do. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Anisha Jaffer Khan
Anisha Jaffer Khan01/11/2024
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Our most frequently asked questions for UltraClear vs CO2 Laser

Is UltraClear better than CO2 for skin resurfacing?

UltraClear offers similar (and often superior) results to CO2 but with less downtime, discomfort, and risk. It’s especially effective for patients seeking a safer treatment with quicker recovery.

Can UltraClear treat darker skin tones?

Yes, UltraClear is safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types. Unlike CO2 lasers, it doesn’t rely on heat, making it suitable for melanin-rich skin without increasing the risk of pigmentation.

How long is the downtime after UltraClear treatment?

Downtime varies depending on the depth of treatment: 0 days for superficial, 1–3 days for mid-depth, and 3–5 days for deep resurfacing.

What skin concerns does UltraClear address?

UltraClear effectively treats fine lines, pigmentation, acne scars, dullness, and loose skin. It also works on sensitive areas like under-eyes and neck.

How soon will I see results with UltraClear?

Most patients notice an improvement within a few days, with continued benefits as collagen production increases over the following weeks.

What is the price of UltraClear at Skin Medical?

The price of a UltraClear treatment start from £250.

For more information speak to our team. Financing is also available – T&C apply.

How can I book a consultation?

If you’re considering a UltraClear treatment in London, Middlesex, or surrounding areas, book a consultation at Skin Medical today. Whether you are looking to address skin concerns, acne scarring or just looking for a refreshed look, this treatment can help. With clinics in Northwood and Harley Street, we’re easily accessible from Heathrow, M25, M1, A40, and London via the Metropolitan tube. Plus, we offer complimentary on-site parking for your convenience.

Looking for an experienced UltraClear Laser Clinic? Discover Skin Medical in Northwood, London.

We have patients come from far and wide for our UltraClear treatments. We are easy to reach from London and the surrounding areas; Middlesex, Herefordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Skin Medical Northwood Clinic, London
William Old Centre Ducks Hill Road Northwood Middlesex HA6 2NP
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Finance available: 0% interest over 12 months. Terms & Conditions apply. Please speak to us or visit the clinic for more information.

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