Hi, I’m Tyler Nealy, RN, and I specialize in aesthetic treatments here in Richmond. One of the most common skin concerns I see in patients is sun damage. Between our long summers and years of daily exposure, it’s easy for the skin to start showing signs of aging—like brown spots, fine lines, rough texture, and even sagging.
The good news? Today’s laser technology makes it possible to undo much of that damage while also stimulating collagen to keep skin firm and youthful. At Montante Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we offer two incredible options: CoolPeel® and advanced CO2 laser resurfacing. Both are powerful, but they’re designed for different needs and lifestyles. Let’s break down the differences so you can decide which one might be right for you.
CoolPeel is one of my favorite treatments for patients who want visible improvement without putting their lives on hold. It’s a CO2 laser, but it’s designed to be gentler and more approachable than traditional resurfacing.
Why patients love CoolPeel:
Helps fade sunspots, smooths texture, and softens fine lines
Stimulates new collagen for fresher, firmer skin
Usually done in a series of about 3 treatments for best results
Downtime is minimal—just a few days of redness and light flaking
This makes CoolPeel a great option if you’re balancing a busy lifestyle but still want your skin to look refreshed.
Now, if you’re ready for something more powerful and don’t mind a little extra recovery time, CO2 resurfacing is hard to beat. I’ve customized a protocol where most patients only need one treatment a year to see lasting results.
Why patients choose advanced CO2 resurfacing:
Addresses more significant sun damage and deeper wrinkles
Noticeable skin tightening from collagen remodeling
Long-term collagen production keeps improving results for months
Just one annual treatment instead of multiple sessions
Because this treatment is more intense, the downtime is longer—usually about 7–10 days of healing—but the results are dramatic and last much longer than lighter options.
Feature | CoolPeel | Advanced CO2 Resurfacing |
Number of Treatments | Series of 3+ sessions | Typically 1 session per year |
Downtime | 2–3 days of redness/flaking | 7–10 days of recovery |
Best For | Mild to moderate sun damage, busy schedules | Moderate to severe sun damage, deeper wrinkles, skin laxity |
Results | Gradual improvements over time | Dramatic, long-lasting transformation |
As a registered nurse in aesthetics, my favorite part of this work is helping patients feel more confident in their skin. Whether you’re just starting to notice sunspots or you’re ready for a more intensive reset, I’d love to meet with you, look at your skin together, and recommend the best treatment plan for your goals.
If you’re in Richmond and want to learn more about laser treatments for sun damage, schedule a consultation with me at Montante Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. Together, we’ll find the right approach to get your skin glowing again.
Written by Tyler Nealy, RN
Aesthetics Provider
(804) 325-4795