Laser skin resurfacing can dramatically improve texture, tone, and signs of aging. While CO2 laser resurfacing has long been a household name, a newer, more advanced option is Sciton’s Erbium Contour TRL (“tunable resurfacing laser”).TRL offers increased precision, safety, and flexibility. At Abbott Aesthetics, we offer Contour TRL because it delivers transformative results without the higher risks associated with CO2 lasers.
Contour TRL vs. CO2 Laser
Contour TRL at Abbott Aesthetics
Precision and Depth Control
Contour TRL allows your provider to precisely tailor the treatment depth to your skin’s needs, adjusting down to individual microns. This results in more uniform treatment and fewer side effects. CO2 lasers, by contrast, are more aggressive and less tunable. Their one-size-fits-all approach often means deeper penetration and more trauma and risk to the skin and surrounding structures..
Contour TRL vs. CO2 Laser: The Basics
Contour TRL
Contour TRL (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) is an Erbium YAG laser system designed for customizable skin resurfacing ranging from a superficial polish to a transformative result. What makes Contour TRL unique is its ability to finely adjust the depth of treatment down to microns, making it suitable for everything from light polishing to deep resurfacing. It precisely targets damaged skin while stimulating collagen production, resulting in smoother, healthier skin with minimal thermal damage.
CO2 Laser
CO2 lasers use carbon dioxide energy to vaporize skin tissue and promote new collagen growth. While effective for treating deep wrinkles, scars, and sun damage, they tend to be less precise. The heat generated by CO2 lasers penetrates deeper, which often leads to longer downtime, increased discomfort, and a higher risk of side effects like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in patients with darker skin tones.
Downtime and Recovery
Contour TRL involves minimal downtime. Because it uses less heat, Contour TRL results in less redness, swelling, and inflammation, especially when treating at lighter depths. Recovery can range from a day or less for a light laser peel to just over a week for deep resurfacing. CO2 laser patients often experience prolonged redness, peeling, and discomfort, with downtime typically stretching into multiple weeks.
Safety and Skin Types
Safety is crucial in laser resurfacing, especially for individuals with medium to darker skin tones. Contour TRL’s lower thermal output reduces the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), making it a safer option for a broader range of skin tones. CO2 lasers, which generate more heat, carry a higher risk of pigmentation issues and prolonged erythema.
Customization and Treatment Versatility
Contour TRL is uniquely versatile. As an erbium-based laser, it offers precision control that allows treatment to be as delicate or aggressive as needed—making it ideal for everything from fine lines and mild texture concerns to deeper wrinkles and acne scars. Unlike CO2 lasers, which are often reserved for more advanced aging or severe skin damage, Contour TRL can be safely used on a broader range of skin types and is gentle enough for more delicate areas of the face.
Comfort During and After Treatment
Contour TRL treatments are typically more comfortable due to the reduced heat and energy output. Most patients experience only mild warmth and swelling post-procedure. In contrast, CO2 laser treatments can be more painful during and after the procedure because of the intense heat generated, often requiring a longer and more uncomfortable recovery period.
Results and Longevity
Contour TRL often produces more natural-looking results. Thanks to its customizable approach, patients enjoy smooth, glowing skin without the “overdone” or overly tightened appearance that can sometimes result from aggressive CO2 treatments. The results with Contour TRL are consistently excellent for tone, texture, and wrinkle reduction—with minimal risk.
Why Contour TRL is the Superior Choice
At Abbott Aesthetics, we offer treatments that deliver exceptional results without compromising safety. While CO2 lasers have their place in aesthetic medicine, Contour TRL provides greater precision, shorter recovery, improved comfort, and safer outcomes across more skin types. That’s why it’s our resurfacing treatment of choice. If you’re ready to experience smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin, we invite you to schedule a consultation today.
