Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment for the Face
Fractional CO2 Laser Icon

Fractional CO2 laser is a very effective resurfacing laser treatment for the face. It is great for rejuvenating the skin, boosting collagen, reducing fine lines, winkles and treating scars.

Concerns:

  • Fine lines & wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone, pigmentation
  • Texture and scars
  • Skin tightening

Downtime:

  • 1-7 days depending on treatment

Cost:

  • from $1,200

The Benefits of Fractional CO2 Laser

Reduce wrinkles with resurfacing laser treatment for the face.

Reduce Fine Lines & Wrinkles, Tighten Skin

Fractional CO2 removes microscopic channels of skin resulting in a tightening effect. It also remodels and stimulates collagen production.

Improve texture with CO2 laser treatment for the fae.

Even Out Tone & Texture

CO2 resurfacing laser treatment for the face produces microscopic channels and heat to the skin.
These channels and heat stimulates repair mechanisms which produce fresh collagen resulting in smoother and more even skin.

Reduce scars with CO2 resurfacing laser.

Reduce Scars

Micro-injuries to abnormal patterns of collagen (scars) helps to stimulate and reorganise this collagen into a smoother, normal basket-weave structure which improves the appearance of scars.
For scars, fractional CO2 laser is often combined with bioremodeling agents and growth factors (LADD) to boost improvement.

Real Results

How Does Fractional CO2 Laser Work?

Fractional CO2 laser is a very effective resurfacing laser treatment for the face. It works to resurface and tighten the skin while helping to remodel collagen.

Fractional CO2 laser uses short pulses of light to create microscopic columns (MACs: microablative columns) into the skin. This causes skin to tighten, while also stimulating the skin’s natural regeneration process to produce new skin. Deeper down, this stimulates collagen production and remodeling. When used as a resurfacing laser treatment for the face it results in smoother, more even and tighter skin while softening lines, wrinkles and scars.

While fractional CO2 laser does have more downtime than non-ablative lasers, it is more effective – resulting in better skin tightening, collagen production and dermal remodelling compared to non-ablative laser.1Hunzeker CM, Weiss ET, Geronemus RG. Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing: our experience with more than 2000 treatments. Aesthet Surg J. 2009;29(4):317-322. doi: 10.1016/j.asj.2009.05.004

What can be treated with Fractional CO2 Laser?

The most commonly treated conditions with fractional CO2 laser are:

  • Lines & wrinkles: Reduced severity of wrinkles by an average of 47%.2Ibrahim O, Ionta S, Depina J, Petrell K, Arndt KA, Dover JS. Safety of Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-L-Lactic Acid in the Treatment of Upper Lip Rhytides: A Prospective, Rater-Blinded Study. Dermatol Surg. 2019;45(7):968-974. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001743
  • Texture: resurfacing laser treatment has been shown to improve skin texture by 63%.3Tierney EP, Hanke CW. Ablative fractionated CO2, laser resurfacing for the neck: prospective study and review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2009;8(8):723-731.
  • Tightening: Studies have demonstrated 57% reduction in skin laxity.4Tierney EP, Hanke CW. Ablative fractionated CO2, laser resurfacing for the neck: prospective study and review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2009;8(8):723-731.
  • Scars: Studies have shown that 95% of scars improve significantly.5Rkein A, Ozog D, Waibel JS. Treatment of atrophic scars with fractionated CO2 laser facilitating delivery of topically applied poly-L-lactic acid. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(6):624-631. doi: 10.1111/dsu.0000000000000010
  • Hypopigmented (white) scars: Over 50% pigment improvement in over 85% of individuals.6Siadat AH, Rezaei R, Asilian A, et al. Repigmentation of Hypopigmented Scars Using Combination of Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser with Topical Latanoprost Vs. Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser Alone. Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(4):364-368. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.160481

While fractional CO2 is most commonly used as a resurfacing laser treatment for the face, other conditions that can be treated are:

  • Warts
  • Syringomas
  • Moles and skin tags
  • Age spots (seborrhoeic keratoses)
  • Xanthelasma (cholesterol deposits)

Why the Deka Tetra Pro is a Great CO2 Laser

The Tetra Pro is made by Deka – headquartered in Florence, Italy. Unlike most other laser manufacturers, they engineer and build the laser entirely in-house. This allows for an unrivalled level of integration, precision innovation and a great resurfacing laser treatment for the face

Their customisable Pulse Shape Design allows for selectable pulse shapes, pulse duration and heating giving very precise control and versatility for skin conditions. Their pulse stacking is also one of the most precise, optimising results, while minimising power usage leading to less pain and downtime. The ability to deliver ‘cold’ pulses, makes this laser much safer for those with pigmented skin.

This unique combination of features is effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles with minimum downtime, treating small and large acne scars, or pigmentation on areas such as the hands, face and neck. The addition of RF therapy assists tightening and reduces the recovery time after treatment. This makes it an ideal resurfacing laser treatment for the face.

The Deka Tetra Pro is a great Fractional CO2 laser.

Why treatment at Anue?

Fractional laser at Anue.

We believe our clients deserve access to expert fractional CO2 laser treatment. That is why we offer our services by our trusted team, supervised by renowned specialist dermatologist, Dr. David Lim.

By using refined techniques, qualified professionals, and high-quality products, we aim to make you look and feel your best. Our fractional CO2 treatments for scars, reducing fine lines, wrinkles and texture are safe and effective at helping you achieve your goals.

Your first consultation for Fractional CO2 Laser

An experienced healthcare provider will conduct your first appointment as a consultation.

  1. The first thing they will ascertain is what your skin concerns are and what your desired outcome is.
  2. Next, they will undertake a comprehensive assessment of your skin and provide their expert recommendations regarding treatment.
  3. Then they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your skin.

Our optimal goal is to help you achieve long-term results so that you don't have to keep coming back for appointments.

Fractional laser consultation.

NEXT STEPS

Fractional CO2 Laser treatments with Anue

At Anue, we provide routine follow-up care so you are not left unsupported.

We believe our clients deserve access to the safest administration and quality treatments available.

Look after you, book in with Anue.

More Information

Preparing for fractional CO2 laser treatment

It is important that you keep the treatment area out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning for four weeks prior to the treatment session. While tanned skin can be treated, we will need to modify the settings, compromising your results and it will increase the risk of adverse outcomes.

Those with darker skin types, may need additional steps to help control pigmentation.

Pricing

Therapist Consultation (Redeemable)

Redeemable on treatment or product

$100
Rejuvenation treatment of the face

Course of three treatments recommended for best results

$1,200
Intensive treatment of lines and wrinkles

Includes full face rejuvenation during same treatment

$3,000
Acne scar treatments for the face

$1,200
Eyelid tightening treatment (laser blepharoplasty)

Treatment for both eyes

$2,200

The cost of reedemable consultations (where indicated) may be deducted from the cost of treatments or products within three months.

For best results, other treatments or a package of treatments may be recommended - pricing will be discussed prior to treatment.

Consultations with a Dermatologist may be reimbursible by your health insurance company, if the consultation is related to a medical condition. Please check with your insurance company to confirm.

Treatment Quickfacts

For resurfacing laser treatment for the face there will be a period of recovery and “social downtime”.

CoolPeel

  • Numbing: Numbing cream recommended.
  • Swelling: 1-2 days.
  • Redness: 2-3 days.
  • Social downtime: 1-2 days.

Other Fractional CO2 Treatments

  • Numbing: Numbing cream recommended.
  • Swelling: 1-3 days.
  • Redness: 3-5 days.
  • Social downtime: up to 7 days.

Post treatment care for Fractional CO2 Laser

The full effects of treatment can take 4-12 weeks to become visible. For resurfacing laser treatment for the face, we recommend a course of three treatments (case-dependent) for optimal results. Following treatment, it is normal to experience some discomfort, redness, swelling, and a sensation like sunburn. These effects typically subside within a few hours to days depending on the treatment method. Some flaking of the skin for a few days is also normal.

We recommend a follow-up appointment four weeks after treatment to assess your results, individual response, and to plan additional treatments if required.

Immediately after treatment

  • Avoid touching or putting pressure on the treated area for at least 6 to 8 hours.
  • Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce any discomfort or swelling.
  • Minimise sunlight exposure and use sunscreen.
  • Treated areas may initially darken, then lighten after 48 to 72 hours.

Skincare

  • Use a soap-free cleanser and a non-fragrance moisturiser.
  • Avoid exfoliation and any strong skincare products around the treated area for at least 3 days. This includes retinol (vitamin A) and vitamin C.
  • Apply sunscreen with an SPF50 or higher to protect the treated area and avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least two weeks post-treatment.

Activities

Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 24-48 hours post-treatment. Also, avoid swimming or soaking in hot tubs for at least 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimers

Most people respond well to treatment. However, because you are an invdividual, treatment effects can vary and as such cannot be guaranteed. We of course, do our best to ensure you are happy with your treatment.

Our Artisans are committed to transparent communication and pricing. We encourage you to ask questions or voice your concerns throughout the process, including before, during and after treatment.

If we don't think a treatment will work well we will do our best to inform you and suggest alternative options.

We prioritise the safety and satisfaction of our patients at Anue. This means we may refuse treatment if we think it is inappropriate or we feel your expectations are unrealistic.

At Anue, only trained professionals administer treatments, supervised by a Dermatologist registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand.

It is important that patients disclose any and all their medical history including current medications during their consultation. This allows us to adjust your treatment to optimise outcomes and minimise risk. Despite a thorough evaluation of potential risks, side effects may still develop from treatment.

Patients are responsible for covering the cost of their treatments, and clinic fees are applicable. The effects of treatments may not be permanent as this depends on the underlying driver of the condition. Your treatment provider may recommend additional treatment courses.

We offer fractional CO2 laser treatments as a trusted solution for addressing specific concerns. Our Artisans carefully assess each patient's unique anatomy and requirements before recommending and administering fractional CO2 laser treatments.

It is important to realise that there may be a recovery period following treatment and that you organise your activities around this period so that your treatment results are not compromised.

We will provide you with guidance about how to look after the treatment area along with activities you can and can't do.

By choosing Anue, patients can trust in our expertise and commitment to providing safe, effective, and personalised aesthetic solutions.

References

  • 1
    Hunzeker CM, Weiss ET, Geronemus RG. Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing: our experience with more than 2000 treatments. Aesthet Surg J. 2009;29(4):317-322. doi: 10.1016/j.asj.2009.05.004
  • 2
    Ibrahim O, Ionta S, Depina J, Petrell K, Arndt KA, Dover JS. Safety of Laser-Assisted Delivery of Topical Poly-L-Lactic Acid in the Treatment of Upper Lip Rhytides: A Prospective, Rater-Blinded Study. Dermatol Surg. 2019;45(7):968-974. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001743
  • 3
    Tierney EP, Hanke CW. Ablative fractionated CO2, laser resurfacing for the neck: prospective study and review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2009;8(8):723-731.
  • 4
    Tierney EP, Hanke CW. Ablative fractionated CO2, laser resurfacing for the neck: prospective study and review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2009;8(8):723-731.
  • 5
    Rkein A, Ozog D, Waibel JS. Treatment of atrophic scars with fractionated CO2 laser facilitating delivery of topically applied poly-L-lactic acid. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(6):624-631. doi: 10.1111/dsu.0000000000000010
  • 6
    Siadat AH, Rezaei R, Asilian A, et al. Repigmentation of Hypopigmented Scars Using Combination of Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser with Topical Latanoprost Vs. Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser Alone. Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(4):364-368. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.160481