What is Fractional CO2 Laser?

Fractional CO2 laser is the most advanced technology in aesthetic medicine for deep skin renewal, scar removal and complete facial rejuvenation.

Visual explanation of how fractional CO2 laser works in aesthetic medicine

The fractional CO2 laser represents the most significant evolution in aesthetic medicine in the last 20 years.

It combines the ablative power of traditional CO2 with the safety of fractional technology to achieve results that were previously impossible.

Scientific fundamentals of fractional CO2 laser

Understanding the science behind why this technology surpasses all available alternatives.

Ultrasound system Liftera

Ultrasound system

Generates 4-7 MHz waves that penetrate up to 4.5mm depth without affecting the surface skin

TDT technology Liftera

TDT technology

Distributes heat uniformly instead of concentrating it in single painful points

Integrated cooling Liftera

Integrated cooling

Protects epidermis while treating deep layers where structural collagen is produced

Mechanism of action of fractional CO2 laser on the skin

How does fractional CO2 laser work exactly?

The process develops in microseconds but its effects last months:

Laser shot moment (0-0.001 seconds):

Instant absorption: The 10,600nm energy is absorbed by water molecules in epidermis and dermis. This absorption is 10,000 times more efficient than nearby infrared wavelengths.

Controlled vaporization: Water instantly converts to vapor expanding cellular volume 1000 times. This creates controlled micro-explosions that remove damaged tissue layer by layer.

Secondary thermal effects (0.001-1 second):

Coagulation zone: Around each ablative microcolumn forms a 50-100μm thermal coagulation zone. This immediately stimulates contraction of existing collagen.

Controlled protein denaturation: Dermal proteins are denatured in a controlled manner, initiating the repair cascade that will lead to new collagen synthesis.

Biological response (minutes-months):

Immediate activation: Fibroblasts detect "controlled damage" and activate genes for production of new type I, III collagen and elastin.

Progressive remodeling: During 3-6 months, new collagen organizes into denser and more organized patterns, improving firmness, texture and overall appearance.

Unique advantages of fractional design

Why fractional technology revolutionized aesthetic laser medicine and changed the rules of the game.

Why is the fractional pattern superior?

  • Accelerated healing: Epidermal stem cells migrate from intact edges
  • Lower infection risk: Partially preserved skin barrier
  • Controlled stimulation: Repair response without excessive inflammation
  • Parameter versatility: Adjustable for each skin type and objective
  • Safe repeatability: Allows multiple sessions without cumulative risk
Advantages of fractional CO2 laser design

Clinical applications of fractional CO2 laser

Specific conditions where this technology demonstrates superiority vs alternatives.

Penetration up to 8mm

Penetration up to 7mm

3x deeper than standard fractional laser. Reaches reticular dermis where structural collagen is formed.

Millimetric precision controlled

Millimetric precision controlled

24 independent microneedles with individual depth control. Zero energy dispersion vs diffuse heat technologies.

Demonstrated safety

Demonstrated safety

Unique treatment approved FDA for all I-VI skin phototypes. Zero risk of hyperpigmentation with correct protocol.

Comparison CO2 laser vs other aesthetic technologies

Objective comparison vs alternative technologies

Technical analysis of why fractional CO2 surpasses other options in multiple parameters.

Efficacy by problem type:

Condition Fractional CO2 Fraxel 1550nm IPL TCA Peeling
Deep scars Excellent (85% improvement) Good (45% improvement) Limited (15% improvement) Moderate (35% improvement)
Deep wrinkles Excellent (70% improvement) Moderate (40% improvement) Limited (20% improvement) Good (50% improvement)
Dilated pores Excellent (60% reduction) Moderate (35% reduction) Limited (15% reduction) Good (40% reduction)
Sun spots Excellent (90% removal) Good (60% improvement) Good (65% improvement) Excellent (85% improvement)
Recovery time 4-7 days 2-3 days 0-1 day 7-14 days

Technical conclusion: Fractional CO2 offers the best overall efficacy with acceptable recovery time. Unique technology that effectively treats multiple conditions simultaneously.

Important considerations for candidates

Determining factors for the success of fractional CO2 laser treatment.

Ideal candidates

Ideal candidates

Favorable factors for treatment:

  • Age: 25-70 years with realistic expectations
  • Phototype: I-IV (light to moderately olive skin)
  • Skin problems: Scars, wrinkles, pores, defined spots
  • Availability: 1-2 weeks for post-treatment care
  • Commitment: Strict adherence to care protocols
  • Sun exposure: Ability to avoid direct sun for 4-6 weeks
Specialized evaluation

Require specialized evaluation

Cases needing detailed medical assessment:

  • Phototype V-VI: Possible but with very conservative parameters
  • Keloid tendency: History of abnormal scarring
  • Active melasma: May temporarily worsen
  • Retinoid use: Suspend 2 weeks prior
  • Occupational sun exposure: Outdoor jobs
Absolute contraindications

Absolute contraindications

Situations where treatment is not recommended:

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Active infections in treatment area
  • Isotretinoin use in last 6-12 months
  • Decompensated autoimmune diseases
  • Unrealistic expectations about results

Realistic results timeline

What to expect in each phase of the post-CO2 laser skin renewal process.

Immediate (0-24 hours)

Appearance: Moderate redness similar to intense sunburn
Sensations: Slight heat sensation, mild tightness
Care: Cold compresses, soothing creams
Activity: Relative rest, avoid intense efforts

Acute phase (1-5 days)

Appearance: Fine micro-scabs formation, mild flaking
Critical care: Intense hydration, gentle cleansing, absolute sun protection
Prohibitions: No scratching, no makeup, no intense exercise
Normalization: 70% of patients return to work on day 4-5

Visible repair (1-4 weeks)

Initial improvements: Smoother texture, evident pore reduction
Deep changes: New collagen synthesis onset
Makeup: Allowed from day 7 with specific products
Precautions: Maintain strict sun protection

Progressive results (1-6 months)

Improvement peak: Month 3-4 when new collagen reaches maximum density
Cumulative benefits: Firmness, uniformity, luminosity
Stabilization: Final results evident at 6 months
Durability: Maintained effects 3-5 years with proper care

Technical frequently asked questions

Are you ready to take the next step?

After understanding the science of fractional CO2 laser, if you consider it may be the solution for your skin needs, the next step is a specialized medical evaluation.

What our initial evaluation includes:

Detailed skin type analysis and specific conditions
Personalized protocol design with specific parameters for your case
Complete process explanation of care and results timeline
Baseline medical photography to document progress
Transparent pricing with no surprises later

The evaluation has no cost and allows you to make a completely informed decision about whether fractional CO2 laser is the right option for your aesthetic goals.

Additional resources to deepen:

Prices and treatments

Prices and treatments

Discover all fractional CO2 laser treatment options and transparent pricing.

View full prices
Aesthetic medicine

Aesthetic medicine

Explore other non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments available at ALMO Clinic.

View treatments
Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about our services and aesthetic treatments.

View FAQ
Our team

Our team

Meet our certified specialists and their experience in aesthetic medicine.

Meet team

Free specialized consultation

Complete medical evaluation to determine if fractional CO2 laser is the ideal option for your specific aesthetic goals.

Schedule evaluation