Fractional CO2 laser is a powerful resurfacing treatment that delivers dramatic improvements in acne scars, especially deep boxcar and ice pick scars. It works by creating microthermal zones of controlled skin damage, which stimulates new collagen production and promotes skin renewal. The target chromophore is water molecules in the skin here. so the micro burns caused by this laser removed the overhanging edges of the scars
What is Fractional Co2?
Fractional CO₂ laser is a powerful resurfacing treatment that delivers dramatic improvements in acne scars, especially deep boxcar and ice pick scars. It works by creating microthermal zones of controlled skin damage, which stimulates new collagen production and promotes skin renewal. The target chromophore is water molecules in the skin here. so the micro burns caused by this laser removed the overhanging edges of the scars
What Should Be the Age of the Patient for Fractional CO₂ ?
Fractional CO₂ laser is a safe and effective procedure for improving skin texture, scars, and signs of aging. While there’s no strict age limit, the ideal age depends on the skin concern you want to address:
- Acne Scars & Pigmentation: Patients as young as 18 years (after acne has settled) can benefit from the treatment.
- Early Fine Lines & Uneven Texture: Usually recommended for people in their late 20s to 30s, when the first signs of aging begin to appear.
- Wrinkles, Sun Damage & Skin Laxity: Suitable for patients in their 40s and beyond, as it helps rejuvenate mature skin.
At Arna Clinic, our experienced dermatologists carefully evaluate your skin type, medical history, and goals to decide whether a Fractional CO₂ laser is the right choice for you. We focus on customized, result-oriented treatment plans so you get smooth, youthful, and healthy-looking skin.
Remember, the most important factor isn’t just age — it’s the overall condition of your skin and professional guidance.
Note: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with active infections or certain skin conditions, should avoid the procedure unless advised otherwise by our dermatology team.
Who Can Get This Treatment?
Fractional CO₂ laser is suitable for:
- Individuals with moderate to severe acne scarring (Grade 3 and 4)
- Patients with boxcar scars, ice pick scars, and textural irregularities
- People seeking a more aggressive treatment with long-lasting results
It is ideal for those who have lighter to medium skin tones. For darker skin types, careful parameter selection and pre-treatment pigmentation control are essential to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
What Should Be the Age of the Patient?
Fractional CO2 laser is suitable for:
- Individuals with moderate to severe acne scarring (Grade 3 and 4)
- Patients with boxcar scars, ice pick scars, and textural irregularities
- People seeking a more aggressive treatment with long-lasting results
It is ideal for those who have lighter to medium skin tones. For darker skin types, careful parameter selection and pre-treatment pigmentation control are essential to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Downtime After the Procedure
Fractional CO2 laser has a moderate to significant downtime:
- Redness and swelling for 1–2 days
- Crusting and flaking starting from Day 2, lasting up to Day 7
- Skin may appear pink or sensitive for 10–14 days, especially in fair-skinned individuals
- Patients usually are given supplements and medication for 7-10 days to avoid PIH and to improve collagen formation.
Patients are advised to plan this procedure during a time when they can afford a week of social downtime.
Pre-Care Guidelines
Before undergoing fractional CO2 laser:
- Discontinue retinoids, exfoliants, and photosensitizing agents 5–7 days before
- Avoid tanning or sun exposure for at least a week before treatment
- Use a prescribed pigment-reducing cream in the weeks leading up to the session (especially for darker skin tones)
- Ensure no active breakouts or infections are present
We perform a detailed skin consultation at Arna Dermatology to evaluate your readiness for the procedure and minimize any potential risks.
Post-Care Guidelines
After the treatment:
- Keep the skin moist and clean with bland moisturizers or a prescribed barrier cream
- Do not pick at the crusts—let them fall off naturally to avoid scarring or pigmentation
- Avoid makeup, exercise, and heat exposure for at least 5–7 days
- Start sunscreen once peeling is complete, and reapply every 3–4 hours
- Resume active skincare products only after 10–14 days or as advised
Antibiotic and antiviral creams may be prescribed as a precaution in some patients. Hydration and gentle handling of the skin are crucial for optimal healing.
Pre-Care Guidelines for Fractional CO₂ Laser at Arna Clinic
To prepare your skin and ensure the best results:
- Consult first: Share your complete medical history, medications, and any skin sensitivities with your dermatologist.
- Sun protection: Avoid tanning or prolonged sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before the session; apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.
- Skip harsh products: Stop using retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or strong exfoliants 5–7 days before treatment (unless your doctor advises otherwise).
- No active breakouts: Inform us if you have cold sores, acne flare-ups, or any infection so we can reschedule if needed.
- Hydrate well: Keep your skin moisturized and drink plenty of water to maintain elasticity.
Post-Care Guidelines After Your Session
Proper after-care speeds healing and protects your results:
- Cooling & comfort: Apply the soothing ointments or gels recommended by your dermatologist; avoid picking or scratching the treated area.
- Strict sun avoidance: Wear SPF 50+, a hat, and avoid direct sunlight for at least 4–6 weeks.
- Gentle cleansing: Use a mild, non-foaming cleanser; pat (don’t rub) your skin dry.
- Moisturize: Keep the skin well-hydrated with products suggested by Arna Clinic’s team.
- Skip irritants: Pause retinoids, scrubs, and strong actives until your doctor gives the go-ahead.
- Makeup caution: Wait at least 24–48 hours (or as advised) before applying light makeup.
- Follow-up visits: Attend scheduled reviews so we can monitor healing and plan touch-ups if needed.
Why Fractional Co2 at Arna Dermatology?
We use premium-grade CO2 laser platforms that allow us to adjust the depth, density, and energy based on scar type and skin sensitivity. We prioritize a staged, conservative approach to avoid complications and maximize collagen stimulation with each session. For more severe scars, we combine CO2 laser with TCA CROSS or Skin Boosters in subsequent sessions for enhanced results.
Faq
How soon will I see results after a Fractional CO₂ session at Arna Clinic, and how many sessions are needed?
Most patients notice visible improvements in acne scars, skin texture, and pigmentation within 3–4 weeks after the first session, as new collagen starts forming. For moderate to severe acne scars (boxcar / ice-pick scars), 2–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart are usually recommended for optimal, long-lasting results.
Is Fractional CO₂ safe for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–V) in Hyderabad?
Yes — at Arna Clinic, our dermatologists use conservative settings and pre-treatment pigment control (lightening creams, sun protection) for patients with deeper skin tones. We customize energy levels, density, and post-care to reduce risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
What will the downtime be like, and what care do I need at home after the treatment?
Expect redness and mild swelling for ~1–2 days, crusting/flaking between days 2–7, and pink to sensitive skin for 10–14 days after treatment. Home care at Arna Clinic includes usage of barrier creams and moisturizers, strict sun protection, avoiding harsh skincare (retinoids / exfoliants) until fully healed, and follow-up visits to monitor recovery.
Who is NOT a good candidate for Fractional CO₂ treatment at Arna Clinic?
Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active skin infections, recent tanning, or certain skin disorders (e.g., uncontrolled acne flare-ups) should avoid it. Also, people with very sensitive skin or unrealistic expectations must first undergo consultation to assess suitability.
Why choose Arna Clinic for Fractional CO₂ in Hyderabad over other clinics?
Arna Clinic uses premium-grade CO₂ laser platforms with adjustable depth, density, and energy tailored to each scar type and skin sensitivity. The clinic follows a staged, conservative approach, and for more severe or stubborn scars, combines procedures like TCA CROSS or skin boosters. The dermatology team also emphasizes safety, personalized plans, and positive patient experiences in Hyderabad.
How should I prepare for Fractional CO₂ treatment at Arna Clinic?
Before the treatment: stop using retinoids, strong exfoliants, and photosensitizing agents about 5–7 days prior; avoid sun exposure; ensure any breakouts or infections are resolved; share your full medical history and skin type with the dermatologist; begin pigment-reducing creams if needed.
What are the risks and how are complications handled at Arna Clinic?
Possible side effects include temporary redness, swelling, crusting, pigment changes, or light scarring. The team at Arna Clinic mitigates risks via skin assessment, conservative laser settings, pre- & post-care guidance, and close follow-ups. Any complications are handled with medical care, pigment control, and corrective treatments as needed.
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