Fractional C02 Laser
Fractional C02 Laser
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a cutting-edge treatment that combines the power of traditional CO2 laser resurfacing with a more targeted approach, offering incredible benefits for skin rejuvenation with less downtime and a reduced risk of complications.
What Is Fractional COâ‚‚ Laser?
Fractional COâ‚‚ (carbon dioxide) laser is an ablative laser treatment that uses carbon dioxide beams to remove columns of skin tissue in a controlled, pixelated way. It stimulates collagen production while resurfacing the top layers of skin.
Unlike traditional COâ‚‚ lasers that remove the entire surface, fractional lasers treat micro-columns, leaving some skin intact for faster healing — intense results with less downtime than full resurfacing.
Benefits of Fractional COâ‚‚ Laser
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Smooths deep wrinkles and fine lines
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Fades acne scars and surgical scars
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Improves skin texture and tone
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Reduces enlarged pores
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Tightens loose or sagging skin
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Treats pigmentation, sun damage, and melasma
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Softens stretch marks
How It Works
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The laser creates tiny controlled wounds (microthermal zones) in the skin.
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This triggers a natural healing response — collagen + elastin production.
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As the skin regenerates, it becomes smoother, firmer, and more even.
Treatment Time & Downtime
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Treatment takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the area.
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Downtime: 5–10 days (you’ll look red, swollen, and then peel)
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Day 1–2: Redness & swelling
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Day 3–5: Peeling and scabbing
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Day 6+: Fresh skin appears
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Full healing takes a few weeks, though you can cover up with makeup after the first week.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
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1–3 sessions for most people (spaced 4–6 weeks apart)
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Results continue to improve for 3–6 months as collagen rebuilds
Aftercare Tips
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Avoid sun exposure and always wear SPF
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Use gentle, hydrating products (no actives for at least 1–2 weeks)
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Don’t pick or peel the skin
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Cool compresses and prescribed ointments will help with healing
Who It’s Best For
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People with deep wrinkles, acne scarring, or severe sun damage
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Great for light to medium skin tones
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Darker skin tones may be at higher risk for pigmentation changes — a skilled dermatologist will pre-treat and proceed cautiously
Let me know what your specific skin concern is (scars, texture, aging, etc.), and we can tell you if Fractional COâ‚‚ is the best fit.
FAQ
1. What is a CO2 laser treatment?
The CO2 fractional resurfacing laser is a carbon dioxide laser that precisely removes the deep outer layers of damaged skin and stimulates the regeneration of healthy skin underneath. The CO2 treats fine to moderately deep wrinkles, photo damage, scarring, skin tone, texture, and laxity.
2. How long does a CO2 laser treatment take?
The exact time depends on the area that is being treated; however, typically, it takes two hours or less to complete. This timeframe includes an additional 30 minutes for topical numbing to be applied prior to treatment.
3. Does a CO2 laser treatment hurt?
The CO2 laser does cause some discomfort, but we ensure that our patients are comfortable by applying topical anesthetics. The sensation that is often felt is similar to a “pins and needles” sensation.
4. When will I begin to see results after a CO2 laser treatment?
After your skin heals, which may take up to 3 weeks, patients will experience a period of their skin appearing slightly pink. During this time, you will see improvements in skin texture and tone. Full results can be seen 1-2 months after the initial treatment.
5. How long do results from a CO2 laser last?
Improvements from a CO2 laser treatment can be seen for many years after treatment. Results can be prolonged with diligent use of SPF+, avoided sun exposure, and correct at-home skincare maintenance.
6. What areas can I treat with the CO2 laser?
CO2 can be treated on specialized areas, such as the eyes and around the mouth; however, the most popular areas to treat with the CO2 laser are the full face and neck.
7. Is there any downtime associated with a CO2 laser treatment?
Yes, there is downtime associated with a CO2 laser treatment. Plan for 7–10 days of healing before you can go out in public. Your skin will scab and peel 2–7 days after treatment and will be pink for 2–3 weeks. The exact healing time varies from person to person.
8. How many CO2 treatments will I need?
Most patients need 3–4 CO2 treatments to see optimal results. However, some patients with deeper wrinkles or scarring may need more sessions of treatments to see results.
9. Who is NOT a candidate for a Co2 laser treatment?
A CO2 laser treatment may not be safe for those with certain health problems. Those with a history of difficulty healing or scarring are not candidates, as well as those with bleeding disorders. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not a candidate for the CO2 laser.
10. What are the side effects associated with CO2 laser?
Common side effects of CO2 laser resurfacing include redness, swelling, flaking of the skin, itching, and sun sensitivity. These side effects are more common with deep resurfacing than superficial ones and often subside in 3–4 days.
However, a few patients may experience the following side effects if the laser is not used correctly. These side effects include:
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Infection
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Acne flare
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Scarring
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Milia
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Hyperpigmentation
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Skin burns and injuries
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11. What should I do before the procedure?
If you are planning to take CO2 laser treatment, then you should:
avoiding tanning or heavy sun exposure for 4 weeks before treatment
not using medications that cause sun sensitivity, such as doxycycline, isotretinoin, and certain topical medications that contain glycolic acid, retinols, salicylic acid, etc., for 3 days before treatment
Quitting smoking for 2 weeks before and after treatment since smoking can interfere with healing.
12. What precautions have to be taken post-co2 laser treatment?
After CO2 laser treatment, it usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks for your skin to heal. Your skin will be sensitive during this time. So liberal use of sunscreen, moisturizer, and strict sun protection is a must.
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Don’t use saunas, swimming pools
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Baths, or hot tubs
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Avoid shaving over treated areas for the next week.
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Avoid applying glycolic acid, retinols, salicylic acid, and similar medications for 1-week post-procedure.
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Use mild cleansers to wash your face and avoid touching the treated area again and again.
Treatments Videos
