CO2 Fractional Laser
A more intensive resurfacing treatment using fractional laser energy to improve scarring, texture and fine lines, with a longer recovery period.
What is CO2 Fractional Laser?
A fractional CO2 laser delivers controlled micro-columns of laser energy into the skin, leaving the surrounding tissue intact to support faster healing than a fully ablative laser. This process stimulates collagen remodelling beneath the surface and is used to treat acne scarring, fine lines, sun damage and overall skin texture.
This is one of the more intensive treatments offered at our skin clinic, and it is not suitable for everyone. Suitability depends on your skin type, medical history and the outcome you are hoping to achieve, and is assessed carefully at consultation.
What's involved
What to expect
The treatment area is cleansed and a topical anaesthetic is generally applied to improve comfort. The laser is passed over the treatment area in a controlled pattern. Depending on the size of the area and the settings used, treatment can take 30–60 minutes.
Recovery
Expect noticeable redness and swelling for several days, followed by skin peeling as the treated layer sheds — typically 5–7 days before you're comfortable in public without concealer. Strict sun protection is required during recovery and important long-term, as treated skin is more vulnerable to sun damage.
Potential benefits
This treatment may:
- May significantly improve the appearance of acne scarring
- Can reduce fine lines and improve overall skin texture
- Stimulates collagen production for improvements that continue over subsequent months
- Results tend to be more pronounced than with gentler resurfacing treatments
Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
Risks and complications
All treatments carry some risk, even non-surgical ones. Key risks include:
- Significant redness and swelling for several days after treatment
- Skin peeling and downtime, typically 5–7 days before returning to normal appearance
- Pigmentation changes — a recognised risk, particularly in darker skin types, which may be temporary or in rare cases persistent
- Infection or scarring — uncommon but recognised risks of any laser resurfacing procedure
- Sun sensitivity — treated skin requires strict sun protection during healing and ongoing care afterwards
This is a summary, not a complete list. This treatment is not suitable for everyone. Dr. Anavekar and our clinical team will assess your skin type, medical history and goals before recommending CO2 fractional laser, and will discuss the risks relevant to you in detail. Please raise any concerns with our clinical team directly.
Frequently asked questions
Who is not suitable for this treatment?
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active skin infections or certain skin conditions, or have a history of poor wound healing may not be suitable. This is assessed individually.
How long is recovery?
Most people need 5–7 days before returning to normal activities without visible peeling, though individual healing varies.
Is it painful?
A topical anaesthetic is used to improve comfort. Most people describe sensations of heat and pressure during treatment.
Why Evolve
Skin clinic treatments at Evolve are delivered within our plastic surgery practice, by our fully qualified dermal clinician. Every treatment begins with an assessment of your skin rather than a fixed package, and you'll be told honestly if a different treatment — or no treatment — is more appropriate for your goals. Our skin clinic only operates from our Bulleen location.
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Book a ConsultationCall 03 9075 0005Important: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed. A consultation is required to assess your suitability for treatment.