What Is CO₂ Fractional Laser?

CO₂ Fractional Laser is an ablative fractional resurfacing treatment. Unlike non-ablative lasers, it vaporizes tiny fractions of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact to promote faster healing.

Key characteristics

• Ablative laser resurfacing
• Fractional technology (treats skin in micro-columns)
• Strong collagen stimulation
• Significant texture and scar improvement
• Requires downtime

Why CO₂ Fractional Laser Is Popular in Seoul

Seoul is known for offering both high-level aesthetic technology and advanced post-laser care, making intensive treatments like CO₂ fractional resurfacing more accessible.

Reasons it’s commonly chosen

• Effective for deep acne scars and severe texture issues
• Delivers noticeable, long-term results
• Preferred for corrective rather than maintenance treatment
• Often part of structured treatment plans with recovery support

How CO₂ Fractional Laser Works

The laser creates microscopic thermal injury zones in the skin.

What happens under the skin

• Laser removes columns of damaged skin
• Surrounding healthy skin accelerates healing
• New collagen and elastin are produced
• Skin regenerates smoother, firmer, and more even

Because only a fraction of skin is treated in one session, recovery is faster than traditional full-field resurfacing.

Skin Concerns Commonly Treated

Scars & Texture

• Deep acne scars
• Surgical or traumatic scars
• Enlarged pores
• Rough, uneven texture

Wrinkles & Aging

• Deep wrinkles
• Fine lines
• Loss of firmness

Tone & Damage

• Sun damage
• Uneven skin tone
• Severe photodamage

Areas Commonly Treated

Face

• Full-face resurfacing
• Cheeks (acne scars)
• Forehead, chin, perioral area

Body (Selective)

• Neck
• Chest
• Hands
• Scarred areas

What to Expect During CO₂ Fractional Laser in Seoul

Before Treatment

• Detailed skin evaluation
• Topical numbing (sometimes additional pain control)
• Skin cleansing and preparation

During Treatment

• Treatment time: 20–60 minutes
• Sensation: intense heat and burning
• Cooling and pain management are used

After Treatment

• Significant redness and swelling
• Oozing or crusting possible
• Downtime: typically 7–14 days, sometimes longer depending on intensity

CO₂ Fractional Laser Results Timeline

CO₂ laser results are dramatic but gradual.

Typical recovery & improvement

• Days 1–3: swelling, redness, oozing
• Days 4–7: crusting and peeling
• Days 7–14: fresh new skin appears
• 1–3 months: texture and tone improve
• 3–6 months: continued collagen remodeling

Results can be long-lasting with proper skincare and sun protection.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

CO₂ Fractional Laser is suitable for people who:

• Have deep acne scars or severe texture damage
• Want significant resurfacing results
• Can allow extended downtime
• Are committed to strict aftercare

It may not be suitable for:

• Very dark or recently tanned skin
• Active acne or skin infections
• Those unable to manage downtime

A careful skin assessment is essential.

Pain & Comfort Level

Discomfort is moderate to high.

Common sensations

• Strong heat
• Burning or stinging

Pain control methods are typically used to improve comfort.

Side Effects & Safety

Expected temporary effects:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Crusting
• Peeling

Possible risks (with improper care):

• Infection
• Prolonged redness
• Pigmentation changes

Strict aftercare greatly reduces risks.

CO₂ Fractional Laser vs Other Lasers in Seoul

CO₂ Fractional Laser is often chosen for:

• Deep acne scar correction
• Advanced wrinkle resurfacing
• Severe texture damage

It is often compared or combined with:

• Fraxel-type non-ablative lasers (for milder concerns)
• Pico lasers (for pigment)
• RF tightening (after healing phase)

CO₂ Fractional Laser Cost in Seoul

Pricing depends on:

• Treatment intensity
• Treatment area
• Number of sessions

Seoul is known for competitive pricing for advanced laser resurfacing compared to many global cities, though this remains a premium treatment.

Aftercare Tips (Very Important)

• Strict sun avoidance and sunscreen use
• Gentle cleansing only
• Avoid heat, sauna, and exercise
• Keep skin moisturized at all times
• Do not pick scabs or peeling skin
• Follow post-laser skincare instructions closely