Understanding fractional co₂ laser
CO₂ laser energy is absorbed by water in the skin, vaporising tiny columns of tissue and heating the surrounding dermis. This triggers collagen remodelling that continues for months after the session.
Fractionation is what makes the treatment practical. Because only a fraction of the surface is treated at a time, healing takes days rather than weeks, while still producing meaningful remodelling.
In deeper skin tones, settings are chosen conservatively and the skin is often primed beforehand, because the main risk is post-inflammatory pigmentation rather than the procedure itself.
This may suit you if
- Depressed acne scars and uneven texture
- Photoageing, fine lines and enlarged pores
- Selected benign lesions and surgical or trauma scars
- Patients able to accommodate about a week of recovery
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Assessment and priming
Skin type, recent sun exposure and medication history are reviewed. Priming creams may be prescribed for two to four weeks before treatment.
- 2
Numbing
Topical anaesthetic is applied for 45 to 60 minutes, with eye protection in place throughout.
- 3
Laser pass
Energy and density are set by area. The session takes 20 to 45 minutes and the skin feels hot afterwards.
- 4
Healing support
Written aftercare is provided, including cooling, barrier repair and strict sun avoidance during healing.
Aftercare
- Follow the written post-laser regimen exactly during healing
- Avoid sun, gym, steam and swimming until healed
- Do not pick flaking skin
- Continue rigorous sun protection for several weeks
Possible side effects
- Redness, swelling, crusting and peeling during recovery
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a particular consideration in deeper skin tones
- Reactivation of cold sores in susceptible patients, preventable with medication
- Rarely, infection or prolonged redness