Treatment Overview
CO₂ Fractional Laser is one of Korea’s most advanced skin resurfacing treatments, often positioned as a stronger, more intensive option compared to the Hollywood Laser Peel (Carbon Laser Peel). While the Hollywood Peel focuses on gentle exfoliation and brightening, the CO₂ Fractional Laser penetrates deeply into the skin to treat wrinkles, acne scars, large pores, and stubborn pigmentation by creating microscopic thermal zones that trigger skin regeneration.
In Korean dermatology, CO₂ Fractional Lasers are frequently combined with toning treatments (like Pico, Spectra, or Carbon Peels) to balance texture repair + brightening. This makes it a comprehensive option for patients looking to go beyond surface glow and achieve long-term rejuvenation.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Wrinkles / Scars / Pigmentation family (CO₂ Fractional Laser, Carbon Laser Peel, Spectra Laser, Pico Laser, Nd:YAG Dual Toning):
- CO₂ Fractional Laser: Best for deep scars + wrinkles + resurfacing.
- Carbon Laser Peel (Hollywood Peel): Best for oily skin + pores + instant glow.
- Spectra Laser: Best for melasma + acne-prone skin.
- Pico Laser: Best for stubborn pigmentation + texture.
- Nd:YAG Dual Toning: Best for melasma + whitening.
Purpose & Benefits
- Scar Reduction: Treats acne scars and surgical scars.
- Wrinkle Smoothing: Improves fine lines and photoaging.
- Texture Refinement: Smooths rough skin and enlarged pores.
- Pigment Control: Lightens stubborn melasma and sun damage.
- Collagen Remodeling: Stimulates new collagen and elastin production.
- Dual Benefit: When paired with Hollywood Peel, combines instant glow + long-term repair.
Ideal Candidates
CO₂ Fractional Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, or texture issues.
- Patients who tried gentler treatments (Hollywood Peel, Pico) but need stronger results.
- Individuals seeking long-term anti-aging and resurfacing.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- CO₂ Fractional Laser: Best for scars + wrinkles + skin tightening.
- Carbon Laser Peel (Hollywood Peel): Best for oily skin + instant glow.
- Spectra Laser: Best for melasma + acne redness.
- Pico Laser: Best for stubborn pigment + mild scars.
- Nd:YAG Dual Toning: Best for melasma + whitening.
Possible Risks & Complications
Because CO₂ Fractional Laser is a stronger resurfacing treatment, temporary side effects may occur:
- Redness & Swelling: May last 2–5 days.
- Crusting & Peeling: Common during healing phase.
- Temporary Darkening: Pigmented areas may darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: Persistent hyperpigmentation or scarring (minimized with expert care).
Surgical Techniques Used
CO₂ Fractional Laser uses advanced fractional technology:
- Microscopic Thermal Columns: Create controlled micro-injuries to trigger healing.
- Fractional Mode: Faster recovery than fully ablative CO₂ lasers.
- Dual Protocol in Korea: Often layered with Carbon Peel or Pico for glow + resurfacing.
- Protocol: 1–3 sessions, spaced 2–3 months apart; maintenance yearly.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, warmth, and mild swelling.
- 3–7 Days: Peeling, flaking, and crusting as new skin emerges.
- 1–2 Weeks: Clearer, smoother skin surface.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily to prevent rebound pigmentation.
- Use healing ointments and hydrating creams.
- Avoid picking at peeling skin.
- Skip scrubs, acids, and retinoids until fully healed.
- Limit sun exposure for at least 2 weeks.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Fresher skin visible after peeling subsides.
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Reduced scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
- Medium-Term (2–3 Months): Collagen remodeling tightens skin.
- Long-Term: Results last 1–2 years with proper care and maintenance.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor assesses scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream, protective eyewear.
- CO₂ Fractional Session – Laser applied across targeted areas.
- Optional Add-Ons – Carbon Peel or Pico for extra glow.
- Post-Care – Cooling masks, healing ointments, or LED therapy.
- Follow-Up – Fewer sessions compared to lighter toning lasers.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea leads globally in Fractional CO₂ resurfacing for scars and wrinkles.
- Clinics use FDA/KFDA-approved Ultrapulse and eCO₂ systems.
- Dermatologists specialize in dual protocols (Hollywood Peel + CO₂) for glow + rejuvenation.
- Cost-effective compared to Western resurfacing and scar repair treatments.
- Seoul offers signature “scar repair + glow” laser programs.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for CO₂ Fractional Laser in Korea:
- Single Session (full face): USD 400 – 800
- 2–3 Session Package (recommended): USD 1,200 – 2,000
- CO₂ + Carbon Peel Combo (Hollywood Peel): USD 500 – 1,000 per session
- Premium Anti-Aging Package (CO₂ + Boosters + Regenerative Therapy): USD 2,000 – 3,800
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, Healing infusions): USD 150 – 600
💡 CO₂ Fractional Laser is often called “the scar and wrinkle eraser” in Korea, as it delivers powerful resurfacing and anti-aging results when combined with gentler peels like the Hollywood Peel.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ + Hollywood Peel for scars + glow.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Specialized CO₂ resurfacing protocols.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Acne scar repair with CO₂ fractional.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ + Pico/Carbon combo for texture + pigmentation.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium CO₂ resurfacing with regenerative add-ons.
