What is the Fractional CO2 Laser Used For?

The fractional CO₂ laser is one of the most effective resurfacing lasers. In fact, it is commonly referred to as the gold standard technology for laser resurfacing; this means that the fractional CO₂ laser is the laser that all other lasers are compared against. Dr. Schweiger explains that, “The fractional CO₂ laser works by sending tiny columns of energy through the skin’s surface, ablating the surface of the skin and stimulating the production of healthy collagen.”

The fractional CO₂ laser is used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, sun damage, and scarring. For most indications, one treatment with the fractional CO₂ laser is sufficient, there is no need for a series of laser treatments. The fractional CO₂ laser, since it is an ablative laser, requires that patients plan for approximately five days of ‘downtime’ after their treatment. Some improvement in the skin’s texture is appreciated at one week following the treatment, while the final improvement takes months to produce.

Prior to your fractional CO₂ laser treatment, a topical numbing cream is applied to the area of the skin to be treated. This cream is removed prior to the treatment; the treatment itself is then very comfortable. We will review the instructions for post-treatment care prior to your leaving the office. For most patients, we recommend the use of Aquaphor to the skin for three days following the treatment, and then switching to a topical prescription healing cream called Biafine.