Treatment Overview
The CO₂ Fractional Laser is a powerful dermatology treatment in Korea used for age spots (liver spots), sun-induced pigmentation, fine lines, scars, and skin texture improvement.
Unlike toning lasers, which work gently over multiple sessions, the CO₂ laser is an ablative fractional technology. It creates controlled microscopic columns in the skin, vaporizing damaged cells (including pigmented ones) and stimulating collagen renewal. This dual action allows it to remove stubborn age spots while rejuvenating the overall skin surface.
It belongs to the Pigmentation Treatment family (Spectra, Nd:YAG Toning, Dual Toning, Pico Lasers, Fraxel Dual, Clear + Brilliant, Carbon Peel, CO₂, Chemical Peels):
- Spectra: Freckles + PIH + acne pigment.
- BB Laser: Age spots + freckles.
- Carbon Peel: Pigment + oily skin + glow.
- Chemical Peels: Surface-level pigment + dullness.
- Pico Lasers: Resistant pigment + recurrent age spots.
- Fraxel Dual: Age spots + sun damage + wrinkles.
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for stubborn age spots + wrinkles + scars.
- Clear + Brilliant: Mild pigment + prevention.
Purpose & Benefits
- Age Spot Clearance: Vaporizes pigmented cells and stimulates fresh skin.
- Skin Renewal: Improves wrinkles, scars, and texture along with pigment removal.
- Long-Lasting Results: More dramatic improvement compared to toning lasers.
- Dual Action: Exfoliates surface pigment + stimulates dermal collagen.
- Single-Session Impact: Often requires fewer treatments than non-ablative lasers.
Ideal Candidates
CO₂ Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with stubborn age spots (liver spots) or sun-induced pigmentation.
- Patients with pigment + fine lines, scars, or texture issues.
- Individuals willing to accept some downtime in exchange for dramatic results.
Treatment Comparison
- Spectra: Best for freckles + PIH + acne pigment.
- BB Laser: Best for sun freckles + liver spots.
- Carbon Peel: Best for pigment + oily skin + glow.
- Chemical Peels: Best for superficial age spots.
- Pico Lasers: Best for resistant pigment and recurrent age spots.
- Fraxel Dual: Best for pigment + wrinkles + sun damage.
- CO₂ Fractional: Best for stubborn age spots + scars + skin renewal.
Possible Risks & Complications
Because it is an ablative procedure, CO₂ Laser carries more downtime and temporary side effects compared to toning lasers:
- Redness & Swelling: Can last 2–7 days.
- Crusting/Scabbing: Normal healing response as spots shed.
- Dryness/Flaking: Part of the skin renewal process.
- Temporary Darkening: Age spots may darken before fading.
- Rare: PIH (especially in darker skin, minimized with Korean aftercare protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Fractional CO₂ Laser: Creates microscopic thermal zones for pigment removal + collagen stimulation.
- Spot Treatment Mode: Direct ablation of individual age spots.
- Protocol: 1–3 sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart; maintenance yearly if needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, swelling, mild stinging.
- 1–3 Days: Crusting/scabbing over treated age spots.
- 1 Week: Brighter, clearer skin as crusts shed.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ daily without fail.
- Use gentle hydrating creams and barrier ointments.
- Avoid makeup until the skin barrier heals (usually 3–5 days).
- No scrubbing or picking at crusts.
- Limit direct sun exposure for 2–3 weeks post-treatment.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Noticeable clearance of age spots.
- 2–3 Sessions: Significant reduction of stubborn pigmentation + smoother texture.
- Long-Term: Results can last 12–24 months with proper sun protection.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Analysis – Assess spot depth and skin type.
- Preparation – Cleansing + numbing cream (30–40 min).
- CO₂ Laser Session – Fractional passes + spot ablation.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask, repair cream, sunblock.
- Follow-Up – Scheduled healing check + additional sessions if required.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists are known for precision pigment targeting with CO₂ while minimizing downtime.
- More affordable than Western ablative laser treatments.
- Clinics often combine CO₂ + Pico or Fraxel + boosters (Rejuran, exosomes, PN) for enhanced pigment and anti-aging outcomes.
- Seoul is globally recognized for scar + pigmentation + anti-aging laser protocols.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 250 – 500
- 2–3 Session Package: USD 700 – 1,200
- Premium Package (CO₂ + Pico/Fraxel/Boosters): USD 1,500 – 3,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Rejuran, PN, exosomes, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 In Korea, the CO₂ Laser is called the “deep reset treatment” — it clears stubborn age spots while rejuvenating texture, scars, and wrinkles in one procedure.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: CO₂ for age spots + combined pigmentation care.
- Banobagi Dermatology: CO₂ + Fraxel programs for pigment + wrinkles.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Fractional CO₂ for age spots + acne scars.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: CO₂ + Pico for stubborn liver spots.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium CO₂ anti-aging + pigment removal programs.
