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CO2 Laser Resurfacing: CoolPeel vs. Tetra

By: Dr. Shahzad Anwar

4/21/2025

CO2 Laser Resurfacing: CoolPeel vs. Tetra By Dr. Anwar

When it comes to skin rejuvenation, few treatments rival the transformative power of CO2 laser resurfacing. At Modern Aesthetics, we specialize in customizing this gold-standard procedure to fit your unique skin needs using the Tetra CO2 platform—a next-generation laser system that offers unmatched versatility and precision.

You may have heard about CoolPeel, a gentler approach to CO2 resurfacing. But did you know it's just one of the settings on the powerful Tetra device? Let's break down the differences and help you understand which option may be right for you.


What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

CO2 lasers work by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using carbon dioxide energy, which vaporizes the top layers of skin. This stimulates the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production and leading to smoother, tighter, and more even-toned skin.

This treatment is ideal for:

- Fine lines and wrinkles

- Acne scars and surgical scars

- Sun damage and age spots

- Uneven texture

- Skin laxity


The Tetra CO2 Platform: Precision Meets Personalization

The Tetra CO2 laser, developed by Cartessa Aesthetics, is the most advanced CO2 laser on the market. What sets it apart is its ability to fine-tune energy, density, and pulse duration, allowing us to tailor treatments for anything from subtle refreshes to deep resurfacing.

At Modern Aesthetics, we use both CoolPeel and traditional Tetra settings to offer a full spectrum of resurfacing results—with less downtime than ever before.


What Is CoolPeel?

CoolPeel is a revolutionary way to deliver the benefits of traditional CO2 resurfacing without the downtime typically associated with it.


Key Features:

- No anesthesia required

- Minimal redness—think post-sunburn level

- Little to no peeling

- Back to daily activities in a day or two

CoolPeel works by delivering high-energy, ultra-short pulses to the skin’s surface. These bursts are powerful enough to stimulate collagen but gentle enough to avoid excessive heat buildup, which means less inflammation and faster healing.


Perfect for:

- Younger patients looking for preventative treatments

- A “lunchtime” skin refresh

- Patients not ready for deeper laser work


What About the Traditional Tetra Settings?

For those seeking more dramatic results, we dial into the deeper, fractional ablative settings of the Tetra platform. 


Key Features:

- More intensive resurfacing

- Improves deeper wrinkles, texture, and laxity

- Requires more downtime (typically 5–7 days)

- May involve peeling, redness, and tightness

This setting allows us to go deeper into the dermis to correct years of sun damage, stimulate stronger collagen remodeling, and significantly tighten skin.


Perfect for:

- Mature skin with visible aging

- Acne scarring or deep texture issues

- One-and-done transformations


Which One Is Right for You?

At Modern Aesthetics, we always begin with a personalized consultation. We’ll assess your skin type, goals, and lifestyle to recommend the setting that best matches your needs.

Sometimes, we even combine CoolPeel with other modalities like microneedling or RF to maximize results without overwhelming your skin.


The Bottom Line

Whether you want a gentle glow-up or a major skin overhaul, CO2 laser resurfacing with the Tetra platform gives us the tools to meet you exactly where you are. Dr. Anwar’s expertise ensures that each treatment is not only safe and precise—but also artfully tailored to your unique beauty.


Ready to renew your skin with CO2?

Schedule your consultation at Modern Aesthetics today and let’s talk about how CoolPeel or Tetra CO2 can help you reach your skin goals.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.