Fractional CO2 laser treatment: what to know

Fractional delivery treats a pattern of tiny skin areas rather than the entire surface at once. Untreated skin between the columns supports healing while the treated areas trigger new surface repair and collagen remodeling. Clinicians may use it for selected scars, uneven texture, lines, or other concerns after examining the skin.

Treatment intensity is chosen around the target, body site, skin tone, medical history, and tolerance for downtime. It is not suitable for every concern, and active infection, uncontrolled inflammation, or a recent tan may require treatment to be delayed.

Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, cold sores, pregnancy, skin conditions, recent sun exposure, and previous pigment changes after injury. Follow instructions about stopping irritating products and arriving with clean skin. Ask how long you should plan for visible healing.

After treatment, the skin may be red, swollen, warm, tender, and rough or crusted. Use only the recommended cleanser, ointment, dressing, and moisturiser. Do not pick or scrub the treated surface. Avoid direct sunlight and resume active products only after the clinician confirms that the barrier has recovered.

Contact the provider if swelling or pain is increasing, redness is spreading, blisters or pus develop, or healing seems delayed. Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, severe facial swelling, or new vision problems.

Ask what the laser will target, what alternatives exist, which products to pause, how pigment risk will be managed, and what follow-up schedule fits your skin.