Fractional CO₂ Laser is an advanced, non-surgical skin rejuvenation technology used to improve skin texture, appearance, and quality. It combines the powerful action of the traditional CO₂ laser with the fractional (microscopic) technique, offering impressive results with less recovery time.
What is Fractional CO₂ Laser?
The CO₂ laser produces a beam of light with a wavelength of 10,600 nm, which is strongly absorbed by the water in the tissues. “Fractional” means that the beam is divided into thousands of microscopic rays, creating microscopic thermal columns (micro thermal zones – MTZs) in the skin, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This allows for fast healing and stimulates the natural production of collagen.
Indications – What is it Used For?
Fractional CO₂ laser is ideal for:
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Wrinkles and fine lines (mainly on the face and around the eyes/mouth)
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Photoaging – skin with sun damage
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Enlarged pores
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Acne scars and surgical scars
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Stretch marks
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Discoloration / Pigmentary changes
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Dull or rough skin
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Skin sagging (moderate)
Advantages:
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Skin regeneration from the inside out
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Significant improvement in texture and skin tone
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Activation of collagen production
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Shorter recovery time compared to traditional CO₂ laser
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Non-surgical, minimally invasive method
Treatment Procedure:
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Skin Preparation: Use of anesthetic cream 15-30 minutes before.
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Application: The laser is targeted across the skin’s surface with specific settings for intensity, density, and depth.
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Duration: Typically 15-30 minutes, depending on the area.
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Recovery:
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3-7 days of recovery (redness, mild swelling, peeling)
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Skin regeneration in 1-2 weeks
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Full results in 2-3 months as collagen production continues
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Combined Protocols:
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PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) – Autologous Mesotherapy
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Benefits: Enhances healing, collagen production, reduces redness after laser.
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When applied: Immediately after CO₂ session.
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Ideal for: Anti-aging, scars, stretch marks.
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Mesotherapy (Hyaluronic acid, Vitamins, Peptides)
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Benefits: Hydration, radiance, texture improvement.
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When applied: 5-7 days after or the same day, depending on the laser intensity.
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Botox/Dysport
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Benefits: Smoothing of expression wrinkles that don’t improve with the laser.
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When applied: 1-2 weeks before or after the laser.
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Hyaluronic Acid (Fillers)
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Benefits: Restores volume, tissue support.
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When applied: Usually 1-2 weeks after the laser for the skin to calm down.
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Chemical Peeling
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Benefits: Even skin tone, combating hyperpigmentation.
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Contraindications:
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Active acne or herpes (prophylactic treatment needed)
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Recent sun exposure
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Pregnancy/breastfeeding
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Immunosuppression or specific skin conditions
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Dark phototype (e.g., IV–VI) requires caution due to the risk of hyperpigmentation
Possible Side Effects:
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Redness and swelling (normal in the first few days)
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Dryness, peeling
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Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (rare, especially if instructions are not followed)
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Secondary infection (very rare)
Number of Sessions:
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1–3 sessions are usually sufficient for significant improvement.
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Interval: 4–8 weeks between treatments.
Post-Treatment Instructions:
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Apply regenerative/soothing cream
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Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen SPF 50+
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Do not use makeup for 5-7 days
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Gentle cleansing and avoid active products (acids, retinol, etc.) for 1-2 weeks
Results:
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Visible after the first session
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Results peak in 2–3 months
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Effect lasts up to 2 years, depending on skin care and lifestyle
