Fractional CO2 Laser: Treatment, Recovery & Results

Shorter recovery than fully ablative treatment: Fractional CO2 laser treats the skin in microscopic columns leaving surrounding tissue intact, which significantly speeds up healing. Most patients recover within 5 to 7 days.

Effective for acne scars, fine lines and texture: One of the most clinically established treatments for atrophic acne scars, enlarged pores, sun damage and uneven skin texture available in the UK.

Suitable for a wider range of skin types: Because surrounding tissue is preserved, fractional CO2 laser carries a lower risk of pigmentation changes than fully ablative treatment, making it suitable for Fitzpatrick Types I to IV with careful assessment.

Progressive results over 3 to 6 months: The laser stimulates your skin’s own collagen production. Results continue to improve long after recovery has ended.

Multiple sessions available for gradual improvement: Fractional CO2 laser can be repeated in a course of 2 to 3 sessions spaced several weeks apart for patients who want gradual improvement without extended downtime.

Treatment type: Fractional laser skin resurfacing

Common concerns treated: Acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, sun damage, uneven skin texture, mild skin laxity and crepey skin

Procedure length: Typically 30–60 minutes depending on the treatment area

Anaesthetic: Topical numbing cream applied 30–60 minutes before treatment

Recovery time: 3–7 days of redness and peeling, with gradual improvement over following weeks

Results visible: Initial improvement within 1–2 weeks, with continued collagen production over 3–6 months

Fractional CO2 laser treatment is a form of laser skin resurfacing that treats the skin in thousands of tiny microscopic columns, leaving surrounding skin intact. Unlike fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing which removes the entire outer layer of skin, fractional CO2 laser targets only a fraction of the skin’s surface at one time. This approach stimulates collagen production and encourages new skin cell growth while preserving healthy surrounding tissue, which significantly speeds up the healing process.

Because fractional CO2 laser penetrates the deeper layers of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue untouched, it can produce meaningful improvements in skin texture, acne scars, fine lines, pigmentation and moderate skin tightening with a shorter recovery period than fully ablative treatment. The procedure is typically performed as a day procedure in a clinic setting, with patients returning home shortly after treatment.

Fractional CO2 laser is suitable for patients who want to improve skin texture, reduce acne scarring, treat fine lines or address sun damage, and who prefer a shorter recovery period than fully ablative resurfacing. The treatment is particularly well suited to patients who cannot take extended time off for recovery but still want meaningful improvement in their skin quality.

Good candidates for fractional CO2 laser typically:

• Have acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores or uneven skin texture they want to improve
• Have mild to moderate skin laxity or crepey skin they want to improve without surgical intervention
• Have fair to moderate brown skin tones (Fitzpatrick Types I to IV), though darker skin types can be treated with careful assessment and adjusted settings
• Are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and during recovery as smoking impairs wound healing and collagen production
• Are in good general health with no active skin conditions at the time of treatment
• Have realistic expectations about the gradual nature of results and the recovery period involved
• Can commit to thorough aftercare including consistent daily sun protection

Patients who may not be suitable candidates include those with active acne or skin infections, a history of keloid scarring, those currently taking or who have recently taken isotretinoin (Roaccutane — typically a minimum of 6 to 12 months off the medication is required before treatment), those prone to cold sores without antiviral medication cover, those with certain medical conditions affecting wound healing, or those who are pregnant.

A thorough consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine suitability and ensure the safest possible outcome.

For patients with deeper wrinkles, severe acne scarring or significant sun damage who want more dramatic results from a single session, fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing may be a more appropriate option.

Fractional and fully ablative CO2 laser both use carbon dioxide laser technology to resurface the skin and stimulate collagen production, but they differ significantly in how much skin is treated at one time, the depth of treatment, the results achieved and how long recovery takes. Understanding the difference helps patients choose the most appropriate treatment for their skin concerns and lifestyle.

For a detailed side-by-side comparison of fractional and fully ablative CO2 laser including recovery time, cost and suitability, see our Fractional vs Fully Ablative CO2 Laser comparison table.

Fractional CO2 laser treatment can improve a wide range of skin concerns by stimulating new collagen production and encouraging healthy skin cell regeneration. Because the laser targets the deeper layers of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact, it can produce significant improvements in acne scarring, fine lines, skin texture, pigmentation and mild to moderate skin laxity, while keeping recovery time shorter than fully ablative treatment.

Common skin concerns treated with fractional CO2 laser include:

• Acne scars and surgical scars
• Fine lines and early wrinkles
• Sun damage and uneven skin tone
• Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
• Pigmentation and age spots
• Mild skin laxity and crepey skin – fractional CO2 laser stimulates gradual collagen production and contraction, producing modest skin tightening over several months. It is most effective for mild laxity, particularly around the eyes and neck, and is not a substitute for surgical skin tightening

Fractional CO2 laser can be used on a range of skin types, though careful patient assessment is essential before treatment. Because the laser treats only a fraction of the skin surface at one time, leaving surrounding tissue intact, fractional CO2 laser carries a lower risk of pigmentation changes in darker skin tones than fully ablative resurfacing. However, patients with darker or olive skin tones still require particular care as there remains a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following treatment.

Skin type is commonly assessed using the Fitzpatrick scale, which classifies skin from Type I (very fair skin) to Type VI (very dark skin tones). Fractional CO2 laser is most commonly recommended for Fitzpatrick Types I to IV (fair to moderate brown skin tones), though experienced practitioners may treat darker skin types using adjusted laser settings and a more conservative approach.

During a consultation, a qualified practitioner will assess skin type, medical history and treatment goals to determine whether fractional CO2 laser is the most appropriate option, or whether an alternative treatment may be more suitable. 

For a full list of questions to ask at your consultation, visit our list of questions to ask at your CO2 laser consultation.

Fractional CO2 laser is one of the most widely used treatments for acne scarring, particularly for atrophic scars including boxcar scars, rolling scars and shallow ice pick scars. By removing damaged skin cells and stimulating new collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin, fractional CO2 laser can significantly improve the texture and appearance of acne scarred skin.

Because acne scarring varies considerably between patients in terms of depth, type and distribution, treatment settings are carefully adjusted by the practitioner to target each patient’s specific concerns. Some patients achieve significant improvement with a single fractional CO2 laser session, while others benefit from two or three sessions spaced several weeks apart.

During a consultation, the practitioner will assess the depth and type of scarring and recommend whether fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is the most appropriate option, or whether a combination approach including fully ablative CO2 laser or other treatments may produce better results. For deeper or more complex acne scarring, your practitioner may recommend fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing as an alternative.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing can produce visible improvements in skin texture, tone, mild to moderate skin tightening and overall quality. Before treatment, patients typically present with concerns such as acne scars, fine lines, sun damage or uneven skin texture. After the skin heals, most patients notice smoother skin, reduced scarring, softer lines and a more even complexion.

Results from fractional CO2 laser develop gradually over several weeks and months as new collagen forms beneath the skin. Because the treatment stimulates the skin’s natural healing response, improvements continue long after the initial recovery period has ended. Most patients see meaningful improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, with continued enhancement over 3 to 6 months.

Common improvements seen in fractional CO2 laser before and after results include:

• Smoother overall skin texture
• Reduced appearance of acne scars
• Softer fine lines and early wrinkles
• Mild to moderate skin tightening and improved skin firmness
• More even skin tone and reduced pigmentation
• Smaller appearing pores
• Improved skin radiance and quality

Results vary depending on the depth of treatment, the concerns being addressed, and the patient’s skin type and aftercare. For more dramatic single-session before and after results, some patients consider fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing.

For a full breakdown of CO2 laser results, timeline and what to expect, read our CO2 Laser Before and After guide.

The cost of fractional CO2 laser treatment varies depending on the clinic, the practitioner’s experience, the treatment area, and the number of sessions required. In the UK, fractional CO2 laser resurfacing typically costs between £500 and £2,500 per session. Smaller treatment areas such as under-eyes or specific scar areas may cost less, while full-face fractional CO2 laser performed by an experienced practitioner will be towards the higher end of this range.

Because fractional CO2 laser often requires more than one session to achieve optimal results, particularly for acne scarring, patients should factor in the total cost of their treatment plan when budgeting.

Some clinics offer package pricing for multiple fractional CO2 laser sessions, which can represent better value than booking sessions individually. If your practitioner recommends more than one session during your consultation, it is worth asking whether a package price is available.

Factors that influence fractional CO2 laser cost include:

• Treatment area size and complexity
• Number of sessions required
• Clinic location and practitioner experience
• Type of fractional CO2 laser technology used
• Aftercare products and follow-up appointments

When comparing prices, it is important to consider both cost and practitioner expertise. Fractional CO2 laser is an advanced medical procedure that should always be performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. 

Fractional CO2 laser is performed as a day procedure. Patients arrive at the clinic, undergo treatment and return home the same day.

A topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure begins. Once the skin is sufficiently numb, the fractional CO2 laser is applied in a controlled manner across the treatment area. Most patients feel a warm or tingling sensation during treatment. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated.

Before starting, the practitioner will review your consent form and take photographs of the treatment area. Immediately after treatment the skin will appear red and feel warm and sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. A soothing ointment is usually applied before you leave, along with detailed aftercare instructions. Most patients are able to travel home independently after fractional treatment.

For the fully ablative CO2 laser experience on the day, read our Ablative CO2 Laser guide. For a full overview of both treatment types, visit our CO2 laser treatment guide.

One of the key advantages of fractional CO2 laser over fully ablative treatment is the shorter recovery period. Because the laser leaves surrounding skin intact, the healing process is faster and side effects are generally less intense than with fully ablative resurfacing.

In the first few days after fractional CO2 laser treatment, patients commonly experience redness, mild swelling and peeling as the skin begins to regenerate. Most patients find that the visible signs of recovery resolve within 5 to 7 days, though some redness may persist for a week or two depending on the treatment depth.

Proper aftercare is essential to support healing and achieve the best possible results from fractional CO2 laser treatment. During the recovery period the skin is more sensitive and requires gentle, consistent care.

Practitioners commonly recommend the following aftercare guidelines after fractional CO2 laser:

• Keep the skin clean and moisturised using gentle products recommended by your practitioner
• Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a high-SPF sunscreen once the skin has healed
• Do not pick or peel the skin during recovery, allow it to shed naturally
• Avoid harsh skincare products including retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs until the skin has fully healed
• Avoid excessive heat including saunas, steam rooms and intense exercise during the first week of recovery
• If your practitioner schedules a follow-up appointment, attend it. This allows them to monitor healing and assess whether further sessions may be beneficial.
• Follow your practitioner’s specific aftercare instructions. These may vary depending on the depth of treatment used

Most patients can return to their normal skincare routine within 2 to 3 weeks following fractional CO2 laser treatment.

Fractional CO2 laser is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced medical practitioner, and carries a lower risk profile than fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing due to the preservation of surrounding healthy tissue. However, as with any skin procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of before treatment.

Most patients experience temporary redness, mild swelling and skin peeling during the healing period. These effects are a normal part of the skin’s regeneration process and typically resolve within one to two weeks.

Less common side effects can include prolonged redness, changes in skin pigmentation, infection or delayed healing. Patients with darker skin tones have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following fractional CO2 laser treatment, which is why thorough skin assessment before treatment is essential.

Possible fractional CO2 laser side effects include:

• Redness and mild swelling
• Peeling or flaking during healing
• Temporary skin sensitivity
• Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation particularly in darker skin types
• Infection is rare when proper aftercare is followed
• Scarring is very rare when performed by an experienced practitioner

Choosing a qualified and experienced practitioner significantly reduces the risk of complications. A thorough consultation before treatment, including a full skin type assessment, is essential to determine whether fractional CO2 laser is appropriate and to minimise the risk of side effects.

If you experience any unexpected symptoms following treatment, contact your practitioner promptly.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an advanced medical treatment that requires skill and experience to perform safely and effectively. Choosing the right clinic is important to achieve good results while minimising risks. Patients should always look for experienced practitioners who regularly perform laser resurfacing procedures and understand different skin types and treatment depths.

During a consultation, a qualified practitioner should assess your skin condition, discuss your goals, and explain whether fractional or fully ablative CO2 laser treatment is most suitable. A personalised treatment plan and clear explanation of recovery time, costs, and potential risks are important parts of a professional consultation.

When choosing a CO2 laser clinic, consider:

• The practitioner’s experience performing CO2 laser resurfacing
• Whether the clinic performs a proper skin consultation
• The type of CO2 laser technology used
• Before-and-after photos of previous patients
• Clear guidance on recovery, risks, aftercare and follow-up appointments
• Professional membership of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) for doctor and dentist-led clinics, or the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN) for nurse-led clinics
• Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration. This is the independent government regulator of health and social care in England. Not currently mandatory for cosmetic laser clinics, but where a clinic voluntarily holds CQC registration this demonstrates an exceptionally high level of clinical governance and patient safety commitment

Choosing an experienced clinic ensures safer treatment and better long-term results from fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.

Before booking, prepare for your consultation by reviewing our list of questions to ask at your CO2 laser consultation.

You can verify a practitioner holds current statutory registration: General Medical Council (GMC) for doctor-led clinics, General Dental Council (GDC) for dentist-led clinics, or Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for nurse-led clinics, directly on each regulator’s website. Voluntary accreditation with Save Face, the UK’s only government-approved aesthetics register, or the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) provides further reassurance of meeting recognised safety standards.

Every Fractional CO2 laser clinic listed on The Aesthetic Standard has already been verified against these criteria by our editorial team. We verify practitioner statutory registration, professional body membership, voluntary CQC registration where held, and patient feedback before any clinic is listed. We review independent patient feedback across Google, Trustpilot and RealSelf. We speak directly with the lead practitioner at every clinic, and where possible we also speak with patients who have undergone treatment there.

Patients looking for fractional CO2 laser treatment can find experienced clinics across major UK cities. Each city guide covers local pricing, how we select clinics in that area and verified practitioners offering fractional CO2 laser resurfacing:

• Fractional CO2 Laser Clinics in London
• Fractional CO2 Laser Clinics in Manchester
• Fractional CO2 Laser Clinics in Birmingham

For a full overview of CO2 laser resurfacing including fractional and fully ablative options, visit our CO2 laser treatment guide.

For other treatments browse our full treatments guide or explore our clinic directory to find verified practitioners and clinics across the UK