Treatment Overview
Acne Scar CO₂ Resurfacing is a gold-standard fractional ablative laser treatment in Korean dermatology that uses a CO₂ fractional laser to resurface skin damaged by acne. By creating precise microthermal zones in the dermis, it vaporizes scar tissue, stimulates collagen, and regenerates new, smoother skin.
This treatment is especially effective for atrophic acne scars (boxcar, icepick, and rolling scars) and also improves pores, wrinkles, and overall skin texture. Compared to milder lasers, CO₂ resurfacing provides dramatic results, though it involves more downtime.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Acne Scars, Wrinkles, Texture, Pores family (UltraPulse CO₂, Mosaic Fractional, INFINI RF, Deep Pico, Plasma Laser):
- Acne Scar CO₂ Resurfacing: Best for severe acne scars + deep resurfacing.
- UltraPulse CO₂: Best for advanced scars + deep wrinkles.
- Mosaic Fractional Laser: Best for mild scars + faster recovery.
- INFINI RF: Best for tightening + scar revision with less downtime.
- Deep Pico Rejuvenation: Best for scars + wrinkles with gentle resurfacing.
Purpose & Benefits
- Scar Smoothing: Breaks down fibrotic scar tissue and stimulates new skin.
- Collagen Remodeling: Improves elasticity and skin density.
- Pore Refinement: Shrinks enlarged pores via dermal thickening.
- Texture Repair: Smooths rough, uneven skin surface.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Softens fine lines and deep creases.
- Long-Lasting Results: Significant, durable improvements after few sessions.
Ideal Candidates
Acne Scar CO₂ Resurfacing in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with moderate to severe atrophic acne scars.
- Patients with enlarged pores or rough skin texture.
- Individuals with wrinkles or sun-damaged skin seeking resurfacing.
- Men and women who can tolerate 1–2 weeks of downtime for dramatic results.
Comparison with other treatments:
- CO₂ Resurfacing: Best for severe scars + strong resurfacing.
- UltraPulse CO₂: Best for deep, resistant scars and wrinkles.
- Mosaic Fractional: Best for milder scars + short recovery.
- INFINI RF: Best for scar revision with minimal downtime.
- Deep Pico: Best for scars with gentle, pigment-safe rejuvenation.
Possible Risks & Complications
CO₂ resurfacing is safe when done by expert Korean dermatologists, but as a stronger laser, side effects may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Common, lasts 5–10 days.
- Crusting & Flaking: Natural part of skin renewal.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Prevented with strict aftercare.
- Infection or Scarring: Rare, minimized with sterile technique.
Surgical Techniques Used
Acne Scar CO₂ Resurfacing uses fractional ablative CO₂ technology:
- Laser Device: Fractional CO₂ laser (UltraPulse, eCO₂, or equivalent).
- Microthermal Zones: Vaporize scarred tissue, leaving bridges of healthy skin for healing.
- Scar Depth Control: Adjustable energy for shallow vs deep scars.
- Adjunctive Boosters: Exosomes, PN injections, or PRP applied post-laser for healing.
- Protocol: 1–3 sessions spaced 2–3 months apart; yearly maintenance optional.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, pinpoint bleeding, and swelling.
- 3–7 Days: Crusting, peeling, and flaking as skin resurfaces.
- 2–4 Weeks: Skin smoother, scars less visible.
- 3–6 Months: Continued collagen remodeling improves results.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid makeup for 5–7 days.
- Apply SPF 50+ daily and avoid direct sun.
- Use hydrating, barrier-repair skincare (HA, ceramides).
- No acids, scrubs, or retinoids until fully healed.
- Follow strict aftercare plan from dermatologist.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Fresher, renewed skin post-healing.
- Short-Term (1–2 Months): Visible scar reduction and smoother texture.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Stronger collagen remodeling, wrinkle reduction.
- Long-Term: Results last years; maintenance may be needed for new scars or aging.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor assesses acne scars and texture severity.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream, sometimes sedation.
- Laser Session – Fractional CO₂ passes delivered to scarred areas.
- Optional Add-Ons – Exosomes, PN, or PRP for faster recovery.
- Post-Care – Cooling masks, ointments, and LED healing therapy.
- Follow-Up – Multi-session plan ensures progressive scar reduction.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea is world-renowned for acne scar revision expertise.
- Clinics use authentic FDA/KFDA-approved CO₂ devices (UltraPulse, eCO₂).
- Dermatologists combine CO₂ with exosomes, PN, or RF microneedling for faster recovery.
- More affordable than Western medspas for advanced resurfacing.
- Seoul is famous for multi-step scar repair programs.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Acne Scar CO₂ Resurfacing in Korea varies by clinic and severity:
- Single Session (full face): USD 500 – 900
- 2–3 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 2,500
- CO₂ + Exosome/PN/PRP Boosters: USD 700 – 1,200 per session
- Premium Scar Package (CO₂ + INFINI RF + Exosomes): USD 2,500 – 4,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, serums): USD 200 – 600
💡 Patients often call CO₂ resurfacing the “scar eraser laser”, since it dramatically reduces even deep, stubborn acne scars.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Specialized in CO₂ resurfacing for acne scars.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Combines CO₂ with PRP or exosome boosters.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Known for CO₂ scar repair protocols.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ + RF combo for scars + tightening.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium CO₂ resurfacing with regenerative care.
