What should you know about CO2 fractional laser peeling?

A fractional laser creates small treatment columns rather than covering every millimetre of skin. With CO2 energy, some surface tissue is removed and the surrounding skin is heated. As the treated surface dries and repairs, tightness, roughness, flakes, and small crusts may appear.

Peeling does not mean the treatment has removed every damaged layer or that the final appearance is ready. Redness, sensitivity, uneven colour, and texture can persist while the barrier rebuilds. Read more about [Fractional Laser](/technology/fractional-laser/) and [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/).

Wash only as instructed, pat dry, and apply the bland cleanser, ointment, or moisturiser recommended by your clinician. Let loose skin shed on its own; scrubbing, peeling flakes by hand, or using acids can reopen delicate areas and increase irritation.

Avoid direct sun, heat, swimming, fragranced products, and makeup until you are told they are suitable. Do not use antibiotic or steroid creams unless prescribed for you. Treatment for acne scars may have its own plan; see [Acne Scar Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/acne-scar-laser-treatment/).

Contact the clinic if peeling is accompanied by worsening pain, spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, fever, strong odour, or blisters. Seek urgent assessment for facial swelling affecting the eyes, vision changes, or breathing difficulty.

Ask when cleansing should begin, which product should keep the skin comfortable, whether a crust is expected in your treatment area, how to recognise infection, and when you may restart active skincare, shave, exercise, or wear makeup.