The CO₂ fractional laser is the workhorse of resurfacing: acne scars, sun-damaged skin, fine lines and uneven texture respond to it better than to almost any other treatment. It is also a treatment that deserves an honest conversation about downtime.
Before
We assess the skin, discuss the goal and set the depth and density of the treatment. Sun exposure is avoided for four weeks before; some patients start a preparatory skincare routine.
During
A numbing cream is applied for about forty-five minutes. The treatment itself takes fifteen to thirty minutes and feels like heat and pinpricks. Cooling makes it well tolerable.
After
The skin is red and swollen for two to three days and peels for another three to four. Ointment, gentle cleansing and strict sun avoidance are essential. Make-up is possible after about a week.
The result
Texture improves visibly after the first month; collagen keeps building for up to six months. Deep scarring typically needs two or three sessions spaced two to three months apart.
