Skin resurfacing with carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser is a currently popular means of improving rhytides and scars of the face. Side effects are few, but delayed healing has been reported due to infections. A case of unexplained slow healing following CO(2) laser resurfacing in a previously healthy sixty-seven year old woman is reported. Although healing was extremely delayed, it is important to emphasize that a satisfactory cosmetic response was obtained after 16 months.