Treatment Overview
The CO₂ Fractional Laser is an ablative resurfacing laser that uses a 10,600 nm wavelength to remove microscopic layers of skin in a fractionated pattern. By vaporizing controlled columns of tissue, it stimulates new skin regeneration, collagen production, and pigment renewal.
In Korea, the CO₂ Fractional Laser is sometimes used for birthmark lightening and correction, particularly for epidermal pigmented birthmarks, congenital nevi, and café-au-lait spots. It can also help smooth skin irregularities and scars associated with pigmented lesions. However, for deep dermal or congenital pigmented birthmarks like Ota nevus, dermatologists usually combine CO₂ with Q-Switched Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, or Ruby lasers for optimal results.
It belongs to the Birthmark & Pigmentation Laser family (CO₂ Fractional, Alexandrite, Ruby, Nd:YAG, Pico Lasers):
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for epidermal pigmented birthmarks + texture improvement.
- Nd:YAG (1064/532 nm): Best for dermal pigment + Ota nevus.
- Alexandrite (755 nm): Best for congenital + café-au-lait birthmarks.
- Ruby (694 nm): Best for resistant pigmented lesions.
- Pico Lasers: Best for stubborn pigment + scarring.
Purpose & Benefits
- Birthmark Lightening: Reduces superficial pigmented birthmarks.
- Pigment Correction: Helps fade café-au-lait and epidermal nevi.
- Texture Refinement: Improves roughness, scarring, or raised lesions linked to birthmarks.
- Collagen Remodeling: Stimulates new collagen for firmer, smoother skin.
- Combinational Use: Often paired with pigment-targeting lasers for deeper birthmarks.
Ideal Candidates
CO₂ Fractional Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults or children with epidermal pigmented birthmarks.
- Patients with café-au-lait spots or congenital nevi.
- Individuals with birthmarks that also cause textural irregularities.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for superficial pigment + scarring.
- Nd:YAG: Best for dermal pigment (Ota nevus).
- Alexandrite: Best for congenital pigmented birthmarks.
- Ruby: Best for resistant pigment.
- Pico Lasers: Best for stubborn pigment + combined textural issues.
Possible Risks & Complications
The CO₂ Fractional Laser is effective but more intensive than non-ablative lasers. Temporary effects may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Lasts several days.
- Crusting & Flaking: Normal healing response.
- Temporary Darkening: Pigment may darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), hypopigmentation, or scarring (rare in expert Korean clinics).
Surgical Techniques Used
The CO₂ Fractional Laser uses ablative fractional resurfacing:
- 10,600 nm Wavelength: Vaporizes pigmented and damaged epidermal tissue.
- Fractional Mode: Creates microscopic injury zones for faster healing.
- Variable Depth: Adjusted for pigmentation vs. scarring needs.
- Protocol: 1–3 sessions spaced 2–3 months apart; combination with Nd:YAG or Alexandrite often advised for deeper pigment.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, swelling, and mild heat sensation.
- 2–5 Days: Scabbing, dryness, and peeling.
- 1–2 Weeks: Pigmentation begins fading; skin smoother.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply healing ointments and gentle skincare.
- Use SPF 50+ daily to protect results.
- Avoid picking at scabs or crusts.
- Stay out of strong sun exposure for 2–3 weeks post-treatment.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Brighter skin and early pigment lightening.
- Short-Term (1–2 Sessions): Visible reduction of birthmark pigmentation.
- Medium-Term (2–3 Sessions): Noticeable clearance + smoother texture.
- Long-Term: Results can be permanent, though some birthmarks may require combination therapy.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Doctor evaluates birthmark depth, type, and texture.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream, and protective eyewear.
- CO₂ Fractional Session – Laser applied to pigmented lesion with customized settings.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask, healing ointments, or antioxidant serums.
- Follow-Up: Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal clearance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea offers advanced CO₂ Fractional systems with high precision and safety.
- Dermatologists often combine CO₂ with Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, or Pico lasers for deeper birthmark correction.
- More affordable than Western resurfacing treatments.
- Seoul is known worldwide for scar + pigment correction programs using CO₂ lasers.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for CO₂ Fractional Laser in Korea:
- Single Session (small birthmark area): USD 200 – 500
- Medium to Large Birthmark (per session): USD 500 – 1,000
- 2–3 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 2,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Rejuran, exosomes, whitening serums): USD 100 – 400
💡 The CO₂ Fractional Laser is often called “the resurfacing birthmark laser” in Korea, as it not only helps lighten pigmented birthmarks but also improves associated scarring and skin texture.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ for birthmarks + textural irregularities.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ combined with Nd:YAG for pigmented lesions.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): CO₂ + Pico combo for stubborn congenital marks.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): CO₂ for café-au-lait spots + scar correction.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium CO₂ birthmark + regeneration programs.
