What is the difference between CO2 and MOXI lasers?

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MOXI vs. CoolPeel® CO2: Which Laser is Right for You?

When it comes to skin rejuvenation, you’ve probably heard about MOXI and CO2 lasers—but today’s CO2 technology has evolved. The latest systems, like CoolPeel® and DEKA SmartXide, offer powerful results with more precision, safety, and flexibility than traditional CO2 lasers.

So how does the gentle MOXI laser stack up against these advanced CO2 options? Here’s what you need to know (plus a helpful comparison chart).


MOXI Laser (Non-Ablative Fractional Laser)

The MOXI laser is designed as a gentle, no-downtime treatment that fits into even the busiest schedules. It’s ideal for prevention and light rejuvenation.

Details:

  • Wavelength: 1927 nm
  • Type: Non-ablative, fractional
  • Depth: Superficial – targets water in the top layers of the skin
  • Downtime: Minimal to none
  • Best for:
    • Early signs of aging
    • Uneven skin tone or texture
    • Sun damage
    • Younger patients seeking “prejuvenation”
    • All skin types, including darker tones

Benefits:

  • Gentle with very low risk
  • Great for routine skin maintenance
  • Can be done year-round with proper sunscreen
  • Fast treatment with minimal social downtime

CoolPeel® / DEKA SmartXide CO2 (Ablative Fractional Laser)

Traditional CO2 lasers deliver dramatic results but often require significant downtime. CoolPeel® and DEKA SmartXide are the newest generation, offering the same collagen-stimulating power with customizable intensity and reduced downtime.

Details:

  • Wavelength: 10,600 nm
  • Type: Ablative, fractional (can also be dialed up for more aggressive settings)
  • Depth: Penetrates into the dermis
  • Downtime: 1–3 days for CoolPeel® (less than traditional CO2); deeper settings may require up to 4–6 days
  • Best for:
    • Deep wrinkles and etched-in lines
    • Sun damage
    • Acne or surgical scars
    • Skin laxity and advanced texture concerns
    • Patients wanting more dramatic results in fewer treatments

Benefits:

  • Customizable: Ranges from mild to aggressive settings
  • Reduced downtime: CoolPeel® offers light resurfacing with faster healing
  • Powerful collagen remodeling: Excellent for reversing advanced aging
  • Skin tightening: Can firm and resurface the skin in one treatment
  • Long-lasting results

MOXI vs. CoolPeel®/DEKA CO2: Comparison Chart

FeatureMOXI Laser (Non-Ablative)CoolPeel® / DEKA SmartXide CO2 (Ablative)
DepthSuperficialDeep (dermis) – customizable intensity
DowntimeMinimal – “lunchtime” treatment1–3 days for light CoolPeel®; deeper settings up to 4–6 days
Ideal forEarly signs of aging, mild sun damage, maintenanceDeep wrinkles, scars, advanced sun damage, laxity
Skin TypesAll skin types, including darker tonesBest for lighter to medium tones; customizable settings help reduce risk
Number of TreatmentsMultiple sessions for optimal resultsOften one treatment can achieve dramatic results
Skin TighteningMildSignificant (especially at deeper settings)

Which Laser is Right for You?

Choose CoolPeel® / DEKA CO2 if…

  • You want dramatic results for deeper wrinkles, scars, or advanced sun damage
  • You’re ready for 1–3 days of recovery (or more with deeper settings)
  • You want powerful collagen stimulation and skin tightening
  • You prefer fewer treatments with long-lasting results

Choose MOXI if…

  • You want a gentle approach with little to no downtime
  • You’re looking for preventative or maintenance treatments
  • You’re new to lasers or have a busy lifestyle
  • You have darker skin tones or aren’t ready for aggressive resurfacing

Bottom Line

CoolPeel® and DEKA SmartXide CO2 bring the latest technology to skin resurfacing—offering all the benefits of traditional CO2 with more control and reduced downtime.

Meanwhile, MOXI is the perfect glow-up laser for light rejuvenation, routine maintenance, or prevention.

Both treatments have their place, and the right choice depends on your skin goals and lifestyle.


👉 Ready to see which laser is right for you? Schedule a consultation and let our expert providers design a custom plan for your skin!