Fractional lasers are one of the most advanced methods for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation. They stimulate the skin’s natural healing response to generate new, healthy cells. Fractional laser treatments can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, scarring, uneven skin tone, and textural irregularities.

Advanced Dermatology specifically uses the CO2REⓇ fractional laser method by Candela. The CO2REⓇ system uses carbon dioxide to create controlled zones of damage while leaving the surrounding skin untouched.

What is Fractional Laser Treatment?

Fractional CO2 laser treatment works differently than other laser treatments. It targets small columns of skin rather than broad areas. The laser divides into several smaller beams, creating tiny treatment zones while leaving surrounding areas untouched.

These beams reach deep into skin tissue below the surface to create tiny wounds. As your body heals these micro-wounds, it produces new cells and collagen. This healing leaves new, fresh skin in its place.

Benefits of Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

Fractional lasers offer numerous benefits for advanced skin damage and wrinkles. One CO2 laser treatment can produce results comparable to multiple non-invasive treatments. Patients may see continued improvement for 6 to 9 months after treatment.

Benefits of fractional laser treatments include the reduction of:

  • Age spots (sun freckles, liver spots, and lentigines)
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Scarring
  • Uneven coloration
  • Skin laxity
  • Textural irregularities
  • Dull tone
  • Thinned collagen layer

Patients concerned with sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, sagging, or irregular texture would benefit from fractional laser treatments.

Please note that CO2 laser treatment is not the right fit for the following:

  • Pregnant patients
  • Patients who have been treated with isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months
  • Patients with cold sores

Fractional CO2 laser treatment may also not be appropriate for patients with darker skin tones. CO2 lasers can cause hyperpigmentation in pigmented skin, and the discoloration can take months to resolve. Your provider can recommend gentler alternative treatments based on your skin type and treatment goals. 

Alternative Laser Treatment Methods

Advanced Dermatology offers numerous types of laser skin rejuvenation if CO2 is not the right fit. Alternative laser treatments include:

  • UltraClear – Advanced Dermatology offers 5 types of UltraClear treatments. The UltraClear laser uses cold ablative and fractional technology to rejuvenate the skin.
  • FraxelⓇ – The FraxelⓇ laser creates thousands of microthermal zones (MTZs) in the skin to stimulate the natural healing response.
  • LaseMDⓇ – LaseMDⓇ is a lighter, preventative skin resurfacing option. It improves overall skin quality for a subtle change with minimal downtime.
  • eMatrix™ – The eMatrix™ laser uses fractional radiofrequency (RF) technology to target deeper layers of the skin. Other lasers typically use light.
  • Clear + BrilliantⓇ – The Clear + BrilliantⓇ system is especially useful for pigmentation concerns. The specific wavelength allows topical brightening products to work more effectively.
  • Genius™ – Genius™ is a radiofrequency (RF) microneedling treatment. It is one of the only systems that generates both collagen and elastin to produce tighter skin.

CO2 Fractional Laser Appointments

CO2REⓇ treatment takes place in our office. Your provider will prescribe medications before and after treatment to support healing and improve comfort. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your appointment.

  • Before: Your provider may apply a topical anesthetic, administer local anesthetic injections, and/or use a tumescent anesthetic medication. Your provider may also prescribe a sedative. These medications will make the process more comfortable.
  • During: Your provider will cleanse your face and protect your eyes. During the treatment, you may feel a mild burn or a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping on your skin. Some patients feel no pain at all.
  • After: Your provider will apply an antibacterial ointment to help prevent infection and provide ice to reduce swelling. Your doctor will also give you detailed aftercare instructions, including a strict skincare regimen and sun avoidance. Most patients describe the sensation after treatment as similar to a bad sunburn for 12 hours to 2 days.

Your Experts in CO2 Fractional Laser Resurfacing

If you are interested in exploring the CO2REⓇ system, or any of our other resurfacing technologies, please reach out for an appointment. Our providers will evaluate your skin and develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals. Advanced Dermatology serves patients in Chicago’s North Shore and beyond, with offices in both Lincolnshire and Glencoe.

CO2 Fractional Laser: Before and After

The gallery below demonstrates the powerful effect that CO2 laser treatments can have. Click through the before and after photos to learn how fractional lasers could help you reach your skin goals.